Programme Specialist - Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) was established in 1997 and serves as the global leader in the fight for global peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, human rights, and development. Its mission is to make the world safer from drugs, crime, corruption, and terrorism by collaborating with Member States to promote justice and the rule of law, and to build resilient societies. UNODC operates with its headquarters in Vienna, Austria, and has a presence in 150 countries and territories worldwide, with physical offices in 111 countries. The organization employs a total of 3,276 personnel globally, with 77 percent of them based in the field. UNODC works closely with governments and civil society to enhance security and justice for all. The Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa (ROMENA) covers 19 countries, including Tunisia, and has a Regional Framework for the Arab States (2023-2028) that outlines its mission to contribute to peace and security, human rights, and development in the region. The framework focuses on six key areas, including combating trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants, which is the primary focus of this position.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist position is designed to provide direct support to the UNODC team responsible for implementing projects and programmes related to combating trafficking in persons (TIP) and smuggling of migrants (SOM) in the MENA region. The role involves assisting in programme development, coordination, and reporting, as well as providing general administrative support for initiatives under UNODC’s TIP and SOM portfolio. The incumbent will work closely with the Regional Programme Coordinator and the National Programme Officer to ensure effective communication and coordination among stakeholders, and to support the planning and delivery of various programme activities. This position is critical in addressing the challenges posed by TIP and SOM in the Arab States, which are significant issues affecting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. The Programme Specialist will play a key role in enhancing the visibility of the programme and ensuring that it meets donor requirements while also contributing to the overall mission of UNODC in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include: assisting the National Programme Officer in effective liaison and communications; ensuring the flow of information to internal and external stakeholders; preparing and circulating regular updates, newsletters, reports, and other written outputs; supporting the planning, coordination, and delivery of programme activities such as workshops, training courses, and official meetings; assisting in the preparation and dissemination of evaluation and feedback reports; supporting the monitoring and evaluation of projects by documenting good practices and lessons learned; contributing to communication and visibility activities; preparing and organizing expert/project staff missions and technical meetings; assisting with the translation of relevant documents; providing general administrative assistance, including drafting minutes of meetings and organizing files; and performing other related duties as requested by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong set of qualifications, including excellent communication skills, integrity, planning and organizing abilities, professionalism, and the ability to work effectively in teams. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to the values of the United Nations and possess the necessary skills to engage with diverse stakeholders in a sensitive and effective manner. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances in a dynamic work environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Programme Specialist position should possess a relevant educational background, typically a degree in social sciences, international relations, law, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas related to human trafficking, migration, or international development may be advantageous and are often preferred by employers in this sector.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in programme management, project coordination, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of human rights, migration, or anti-trafficking initiatives, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the socio-political landscape of the MENA region and previous work experience in Tunisia or similar contexts would be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable given the regional focus of the position. Knowledge of French or other languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Tunis, Tunisia. The contract duration is subject to availability of funds and operational necessity, with the possibility of extension. The volunteer will be responsible for organizing their own accommodation and basic needs. The Volunteer Living Allowance is provided monthly to cover housing, utilities, and daily living expenses, along with comprehensive health and life insurance. Additional benefits include an entry lump sum, relocation costs, annual leave, and a final repatriation allowance. The living conditions in Tunisia are favorable, with a Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, and a relatively low cost of living.