International UN Volunteer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a prominent organization within the UN Development System, dedicated to sustainable development. Established to serve as a knowledge frontier organization, UNDP integrates collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It operates through a Global Policy Network (GPN) that encompasses field-based and global technical expertise across various knowledge domains. UNDP's mission is to provide in-depth local knowledge while advocating for global perspectives, particularly in the context of business and human rights, which is recognized as a critical framework for promoting sustainable business practices. The organization is committed to enhancing governance and peacebuilding, particularly in the African context, where it aims to address challenges related to elections and democratic processes. UNDP's work is guided by its Strategic Plan and Regional Programme for Africa, focusing on effective governance and citizen participation.

Job Overview:
The International UN Volunteer Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Africa Elections Fund (AEF), a four-year initiative aimed at promoting inclusive and peaceful electoral processes across Africa. This position is situated within the Governance and Peacebuilding Team of the UNDP Regional Service Center for Africa (RSCA) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The AEF seeks to address the challenges of electoral processes in Africa, which often suffer from technical shortcomings, weak institutions, and low inclusivity. The UN Volunteer Elections Programme Analyst will provide programmatic and technical support to ensure the effective implementation of the AEF, working closely with various stakeholders, including country offices, the African Union Commission, and civil society organizations. The role involves project management, development of electoral assistance mechanisms, and management of partnerships and resource mobilization efforts related to governance and peacebuilding.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer Elections Programme Analyst will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Project Management: Supporting the planning and implementation of regional activities for the Africa Elections Fund, providing programmatic support to electoral projects in country offices, and identifying collaboration opportunities with other UNDP initiatives.
• Development of Mechanisms and Tools: Assisting in organizing regional peer-learning initiatives on elections, conducting research for analytical studies on elections and governance, and supporting the dissemination of lessons learned from electoral programs.
• Management of Partnerships: Drafting reports and briefs on promising practices related to elections and governance, managing a database of partners and UNDP Chief Electoral Advisors, and ensuring effective communication with country offices and regional stakeholders.
• Promoting Gender Mainstreaming: Ensuring that all activities under the Fund promote gender inclusion and the participation of marginalized groups in electoral processes.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Supporting programmatic monitoring, evaluation, and reporting to assess the effectiveness of electoral initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the International UN Volunteer Specialist position should possess a strong understanding of electoral processes, governance, and peacebuilding. They should demonstrate a commitment to promoting inclusivity and gender equality in electoral initiatives. Additionally, candidates should have excellent analytical and research skills, as well as the ability to draft comprehensive reports and briefs. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society organizations, and international partners. Candidates should also exhibit a high level of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in political science, international relations, public administration, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in governance, electoral processes, or peacebuilding may be advantageous. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of the UN system and its operations, particularly in the context of sustainable development and human rights.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in electoral assistance, governance, or peacebuilding. Experience working with international organizations, particularly within the UN system, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing projects, conducting research, and engaging with diverse stakeholders in the field of governance and electoral processes. Familiarity with the African context and the challenges related to elections in the region will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UNDP and the international community. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Arabic, would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders across Africa.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and is part of the UNDP's commitment to enhancing governance and peacebuilding in the region. The contract duration is aligned with the four-year Africa Elections Fund project, which runs from January 2026 to December 202

• The role involves working closely with various stakeholders, including the African Union and regional economic communities, to ensure effective implementation of electoral initiatives. The living conditions in Addis Ababa are generally favorable, with a vibrant expatriate community and access to various amenities, although candidates should be prepared for some challenges related to infrastructure and healthcare.