National Consultant on Communication and Social Norm Change

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency dedicated to ensuring sexual and reproductive health rights and choices for all individuals. Established to address the pressing issues surrounding population dynamics, UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing particularly on vulnerable groups such as women and young people. The organization aims to achieve transformative goals by 2030, including ending unmet needs for family planning, maternal deaths, and violence against women and girls. UNFPA's mission is rooted in the belief that all human beings are entitled to equal rights and protections, and it actively works to empower individuals through education and advocacy.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant on Communication and Social Norm Change will play a pivotal role in enhancing the visibility and advocacy of UNFPA Uzbekistan's program interventions. This position is crucial for supporting the strategic communication efforts aligned with the 2026 Results and Resources Plan. The consultant will be responsible for developing and disseminating communication materials that are rights-based and gender-sensitive, ensuring that they resonate with the target audience. The role involves monitoring media coverage, analyzing public feedback, and adjusting communication strategies accordingly. The consultant will also contribute to the implementation of the Communication Action Plan, ensuring that all messaging is aligned with UNFPA's strategic priorities and national reforms. This position requires a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders and to promote awareness of maternal and reproductive health rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of the Communication Action Plan; contributing to the development of communication materials that comply with UNFPA branding standards; documenting program implementation through various media; drafting and publishing communication content across multiple platforms; monitoring media coverage and digital engagement; collecting and archiving communication outputs; collaborating with designers and photographers; assisting in the preparation of procurement requests; drafting Terms of Reference for communication vendors; and contributing to quarterly newsletters. The consultant will also support capacity-building initiatives for journalists and influencers, develop innovative communication solutions, and engage in educational sessions on gender equality and reproductive rights.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in social science, humanities, philology, journalism, or related fields. A minimum of five years of professional experience in journalism, communication, or advocacy is required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a proven ability to write creatively and possess an existing portfolio of stories. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively are essential, as is a strong command of the Uzbek language and proficiency in English. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of UNFPA's mission and core values, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as social science, humanities, philology, or journalism. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of communication and advocacy in the context of sexual and reproductive health rights.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of professional experience in fields related to journalism, communication, or advocacy. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to engage with diverse audiences, create impactful communication materials, and contribute to advocacy initiatives effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in Uzbek and any other local language is mandatory, along with a good command of English. Proficiency in these languages is essential for drafting communication materials and engaging with various stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is for a duration of 10 months, starting from March 10, 2026, to December 31, 2026, with a working schedule of 22 days per month. The consultant will be required to deliver a range of outputs, including monthly reports, social media posts, and communication materials. The consultant will work remotely but must be present in the office for three days each month. UNFPA will provide necessary equipment such as a laptop and internet access, and travel expenses will be covered in accordance with UNFPA’s travel policy. Payments will be made monthly upon submission of satisfactory reports and deliverables.