UN Volunteer - Social & Behavior Change Expert

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF Pakistan is a branch of the United Nations Children's Fund, which was established in 1946 to provide emergency food and healthcare to children in countries that were devastated by World War II. Over the years, UNICEF has evolved to focus on long-term development programs aimed at improving the lives of children and their families. In Pakistan, UNICEF has been actively working since 1951, addressing various issues related to children's rights, health, education, and protection. The organization collaborates with the Government of Pakistan and various partners to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and develop to their full potential. UNICEF Pakistan operates in multiple provinces and regions, engaging with local communities, government bodies, and international organizations to implement programs that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization is committed to promoting children's rights and ensuring their well-being through evidence-based strategies and community engagement.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer (UNV) expert will play a crucial role in supporting the coordination and operationalization of the UN Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Technical Working Group and the National Community of Practice (CoP) in Pakistan. This position is designed to enhance the effectiveness of the SBC initiatives by fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society organizations, and the private sector. The UNV will be instrumental in promoting evidence-driven practices and facilitating knowledge sharing within the SBC community. The role requires a proactive approach to ensure that the CoP's activities align with national priorities and the SDGs, thereby contributing to a more integrated and agile UN system in Pakistan. The UNV will also be responsible for organizing meetings, documenting discussions, and tracking the implementation of the CoP's annual workplan, ensuring that all actions are well-coordinated and effectively communicated among members.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UNV will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities aimed at enhancing the coordination and effectiveness of the SBC initiatives in Pakistan. Key duties include:

• Supporting the coordination and daily operations of the UN SBC Technical Working Group and SBC CoP, including organizing meetings, following up on action items, and documenting discussions.
• Assisting in the implementation of the CoP's annual workplan and tracking the progress of agreed actions.
• Facilitating collaboration among SBC focal points to promote coherence and joint initiatives across sectors.
• Engaging with SBC Think Tanks, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), academia, and private sector partners to foster collaboration and innovation.
• Contributing to knowledge sharing and learning sessions, and systematically documenting good practices in SBC.
• Supporting basic monitoring and reporting of CoP outputs to ensure visibility and accountability.
• Maintaining a calendar of major events and deadlines related to SBC initiatives.
• Drafting internal communication notes and updates for partners regarding progress and upcoming activities.
• Tracking action points from key stakeholder meetings and liaising with government and partners for scheduling and updates. 1
• Supporting the development of infographics, briefs, and short updates for advocacy and knowledge sharing purposes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a strong understanding of social and behavior change principles, as well as experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives. Required qualifications include:

• Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation frameworks related to social and behavior change initiatives.
• Proficiency in using digital tools for communication and knowledge sharing.
• A commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in all aspects of work.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field is required for this position. A master's degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. Candidates should have a solid academic foundation that supports their understanding of social and behavior change theories and practices, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge in a practical context.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in social and behavior change, community engagement, or program coordination. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UNICEF or similar UN agencies, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities in the Pakistani context, especially regarding children's rights and development, will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UN system. Knowledge of Urdu or other local languages would be an asset, as it would facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UNV assignment, and the selected volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) provided is PKR 105,097 per month, which is intended to cover housing, utilities, and normal living expenses. Additionally, the assignment includes life health and permanent disability insurance, health insurance for up to three dependents, and a final repatriation allowance if applicable. The position is full-time and requires a commitment to the principles of the UN, including accountability, professionalism, and adaptability.