Online Volunteer for Research and Analysis Support on Rural Reform and Reincorporation

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) is a Special Political Mission established in 2016 by the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council. Its primary mission is to verify the implementation of the Final Peace Agreement between the Government of Colombia and the FARC-EP, which aims to end the long-standing conflict in Colombia and foster sustainable peace. The mission focuses on three critical areas: Comprehensive Rural Reform, the reincorporation of former combatants, and security guarantees. The UNVMC operates across various regions in Colombia, including Huila, Tolima, Cundinamarca, Boyacá, and the capital city, Bogotá. The organization is committed to promoting peace and reconciliation in Colombia, contributing to the overall stability and development of the country.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer position is designed to provide analytical support for the implementation of the Peace Agreement, specifically focusing on Comprehensive Rural Reform and the reincorporation of former combatants. The volunteer will work remotely, supporting the Bogotá Regional Office of the UNVMC. The role involves conducting desk research, analyzing data, and drafting internal notes that will contribute to the Office's analytical capacity and knowledge base. The volunteer will be expected to engage in various research tasks, including contextual analysis of Territorially Focused Development Programmes (PDET) and Zonas de Reserva Campesina (ZRC), synthesizing information from diverse sources, and preparing concise analytical notes to inform internal discussions and strategic reflections. This position is crucial for enhancing the understanding of rural reform and reincorporation processes in Colombia, thereby supporting the broader goals of the Peace Agreement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Online Volunteer will be responsible for a range of tasks that include: conducting desk research and contextual analysis on the implementation of Territorially Focused Development Programmes (PDET), particularly focusing on urban PDET processes in Bogotá; supporting research and analysis on Zonas de Reserva Campesina (ZRC), with an emphasis on land use, governance arrangements, and development initiatives; reviewing and synthesizing information from official documents, public policies, institutional reports, academic literature, and credible secondary sources related to rural reform, land access, territorial development, and reincorporation; preparing concise analytical notes, summaries, and background briefs to inform internal discussions and reporting; contributing to the organization and systematization of information, including structuring reference materials and tracking key themes related to rural reform and reincorporation; and identifying emerging trends, gaps, and territorial challenges relevant to the implementation of the Peace Agreement. The volunteer will receive guidance and supervision from UNVMC staff and will be expected to deliver two research outputs: a research paper on the Peasant Reserve Zones (ZRCs) and another on the Urban PDET in Bogotá.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Online Volunteer position should possess strong analytical skills, with the ability to conduct thorough research and synthesize complex information. Proficiency in research methodologies and familiarity with the context of rural reform and peace processes in Colombia are essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent written communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise analytical notes and reports. Additionally, candidates should be able to work independently and collaboratively, managing their time effectively to meet deadlines. A proactive approach to identifying trends and challenges in the implementation of the Peace Agreement is also required.

Educational Background:
A background in social sciences, international relations, development studies, or a related field is preferred for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the political and social context of Colombia, particularly regarding rural development and peacebuilding efforts. Relevant coursework or experience in research methodologies and data analysis will be advantageous.

Experience:
While prior experience in a similar role is not mandatory, candidates with experience in research, analysis, or working with international organizations will be viewed favorably. Familiarity with the Colombian peace process and the specific mandates of the UNVMC will enhance a candidate's suitability for this position. The ability to demonstrate a commitment to the principles of peace and reconciliation in Colombia is also important.

Languages:
Proficiency in Spanish is mandatory, as the majority of the research materials and communications will be in this language. Knowledge of English is also beneficial, as it may be required for certain documents and reports. Additional languages relevant to the Colombian context may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a remote volunteer position, allowing for flexibility in work hours. The assignment will involve regular coordination and feedback with the UNVMC team to ensure alignment with the Mission’s priorities. Upon successful completion of the assignment, the volunteer will receive a certificate of recognition for their contributions. The position does not specify a contract duration, but it is expected to last for the duration of the research tasks assigned.