Individual Contractor/National Focal Point for the Regional Youth Network for Central Asia

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) was established to address issues related to transnational organized crime, criminal justice, anti-corruption, drug control, and counterterrorism. The organization aims to promote health and well-being among young people, recognizing that many face limited opportunities that can lead to frustration and unhealthy behaviors. UNODC operates globally, with a focus on empowering youth and providing platforms for their meaningful participation in policy dialogue and decision-making. The Regional Youth Network for Central Asia was launched on November 25, 2021, to engage young people in discussions about drug use prevention and to promote innovative solutions to societal challenges. UNODC's mission is to strengthen the positive engagement of youth with families, schools, and communities, fostering inclusive and safe environments for their development.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Contractor/National Focal Point for the Regional Youth Network for Central Asia involves a range of responsibilities aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of youth engagement in drug use prevention initiatives. The contractor will be responsible for disseminating results from the Regional Youth Network for Central Asia (RYNCA), implementing the Friends in Focus Programme, expanding RYNCA membership, and organizing youth consultations and round tables. The role requires maintaining communication and visibility of RYNCA activities through social media platforms, compiling reports on progress and challenges, and providing administrative support for youth-driven drug prevention activities. The contractor will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that youth voices are heard and that their needs are addressed in policy discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Contractor/National Focal Point include:

• Dissemination of RYNCA Results: Create and distribute informational materials and maintain records of outreach distribution lists.
• Implementation of the Friends in Focus Programme: Keep logs of correspondence and administrative coordination for the programme.
• Expansion of RYNCA Membership: Update and maintain a membership database reflecting new registrations.
• Organization of Youth Consultations and Round Tables: Arrange logistics for campaigns and consultations, including participant lists, scheduling, and material preparation.
• Overall Administrative Support: Compile background data and administrative summaries to support national and regional youth-driven drug prevention activities.
• Enhanced Communication and Visibility: Regularly update RYNCA activities on social media, aiming for a 25% increase in followers during the contract period.
• Mid-Term Progress Report: Submit administrative inputs for the Mid-Term Progress Report detailing activities, progress, challenges, and recommendations.
• Final Progress Report: Compile and submit a final report summarizing activities, measurable results, lessons learned, and recommendations for future development of the local RYNCA branch.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a high school diploma or equivalent. Formal qualifications or certifications in Sociology, Social Science, International Relations, or a related field from a recognized institution are advantageous. Candidates must have at least three years of experience in clerical, logistical, or administrative support roles, with a focus on supporting local youth projects. Proficiency in the use and administration of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram is essential. Experience or knowledge in drug abuse prevention programmes aimed at young people is desirable, along with a basic understanding of the political, economic, geographic, cultural, and demographic context of the country.

Educational Background:
Candidates are expected to possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional formal qualifications or certifications from recognized educational institutions in relevant fields such as Sociology, Social Science, or International Relations are considered an advantage for this role.

Experience:
A minimum of three years of experience in clerical, logistical, or administrative support roles is required. Experience in supporting local youth projects is essential, as the role involves engaging with youth and facilitating their participation in drug prevention initiatives. Familiarity with social media platforms and their administration is also necessary, along with any experience related to drug abuse prevention programmes targeting young people.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Russian and English is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based with potential travel to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The expected duration of the contract is from June 25, 2026, to December 31, 202

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.