Programme Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization is dedicated to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, particularly in the areas of reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and population dynamics. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its commitment to addressing complex global challenges and enhancing resilience and renewal in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Programme Adviser position is situated within the Gender, Human Rights Branch of the Programme Division at UNFPA. This role is pivotal as it involves providing strategic technical support and being the principal technical adviser on human rights, particularly reproductive rights, in alignment with the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Programme Adviser will work collaboratively across various branches and with the Geneva Liaison Office to develop policies, frameworks, and operational strategies that address human rights issues, especially in contexts of increasing polarization and humanitarian crises. The position requires a commitment to integrating human rights into national and regional efforts to improve sexual and reproductive health, ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly marginalized groups such as Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTQI+ community. The Programme Adviser will also play a crucial role in representing UNFPA in international discussions and advocating for human rights and gender equality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Adviser will be responsible for a wide range of duties including:

• Providing strategic technical support by identifying priority areas in human rights, particularly reproductive rights, and developing UNFPA's strategic positions and policies.
• Supporting the mainstreaming of human rights in national and regional sexual and reproductive health efforts.
• Leading initiatives to ensure that marginalized groups are included in UNFPA's work.
• Ensuring that evaluation results and lessons learned are incorporated into strategies and policies.
• Supporting capacity development for international human rights mechanisms and civil society organizations.
• Leading evidence and knowledge development related to UNFPA's work on SDG indicators.
• Representing UNFPA in various international forums and advocating for human rights and gender equality.
• Collaborating with UN agencies and other stakeholders to promote human rights initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights and development, with a focus on reproductive health and poverty reduction strategies. They should have a deep understanding of gender equality policies and programs, as well as experience in legal issues and civil society involvement. An acknowledged expert in the field, candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of technical leadership and the ability to produce demonstrable results. A broad network within the academic and development community is essential, along with field experience.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in human rights, development, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background should directly relate to the substantive area identified in the title of the post, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of increasingly responsible professional experience in human rights and its linkages with reproductive health and poverty reduction strategies. Of these, at least seven years should be at the international level, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the global context in which UNFPA operates. Experience in gender programming and a strong track record of technical leadership are essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, with proficiency in French or Spanish being desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset. Excellent drafting skills in English are mandatory, and proficiency in French and/or Spanish is also beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.