Technical Expert for SRHR Integration into Early Warning Systems

Job Posting Organization:
The 2gether 4 SRHR is a collaborative initiative involving UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO, aimed at enhancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across Eastern and Southern Africa. This joint United Nations Regional Programme was established to provide quality technical assistance to various stakeholders, including economic communities, parliamentary forums, and participating UN agencies. The organization operates across multiple countries in the region, focusing on improving health outcomes and addressing critical issues related to SRHR. The initiative emphasizes the importance of timely and effective support to ensure that all individuals have access to necessary health services and rights.

Job Overview:
The primary function of this consultancy role is to develop a comprehensive framework that integrates sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) into Early Warning Systems (EWS) and anticipatory actions. The technical expert will be tasked with conducting a thorough desk review, creating a conceptual framework, and providing actionable recommendations for implementation. This role is crucial in addressing the increasing fragility and crises that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls. The expert will work to ensure that SRHR considerations are embedded in disaster preparedness and response strategies, thereby enhancing the resilience of communities facing climate-related disasters and other emergencies. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying gaps in current systems and proposing innovative solutions to strengthen SRHR integration into EWS.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The technical expert will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting comprehensive desk reviews to assess existing frameworks and identify gaps in SRHR integration; developing a conceptual framework that outlines strategies for integrating SRHR into EWS; providing recommendations for policy and programmatic enhancements; engaging with stakeholders to gather insights and foster collaboration; analyzing data related to SRHR and gender-based violence in the context of EWS; and documenting best practices and lessons learned from previous interventions. The expert will also be expected to contribute to capacity-building efforts and support regional institutions in implementing the proposed strategies effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree or higher in Public Health, Gender Studies, International Development, or a related field. They should have demonstrated expertise in sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and humanitarian action. A minimum of 7-10 years of extensive experience in disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, and anticipatory action is required. Proven ability to conduct desk reviews, policy analysis, and develop strategic frameworks is essential. Candidates should also exhibit excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills, along with the ability to work independently and manage time effectively.

Educational Background:
The ideal educational background for this position includes a master's degree or higher in relevant fields such as Public Health, Gender Studies, International Development, or similar disciplines. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of SRHR and its integration into broader health and humanitarian frameworks.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience, ideally between 7 to 10 years, in areas related to disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, and anticipatory actions. This experience should include practical involvement in integrating SRHR into disaster preparedness and response strategies, as well as familiarity with the challenges faced by marginalized populations in crisis situations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is structured to provide flexibility based on the specific technical assignments identified by participating UN agencies and regional partners. Selected candidates will be invited to register for the Technical Assistance Hub, which will facilitate access to consulting opportunities. The nature of the assignments may vary, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel based on the requirements of their specific roles. The organization emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups and individuals with disabilities. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance.