Voluntario/a de Naciones Unidas Especialista

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established as part of the United Nations system, is dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of children and adolescents. Its mission is to advocate for the visibility and addressing of complex rights violations affecting children in Colombia. UNICEF operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various programs aimed at improving the lives of children and families, particularly in vulnerable situations. The organization emphasizes the importance of child protection, education, health, and nutrition, and works collaboratively with local and international partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The position of Voluntario/a de Naciones Unidas Especialista is crucial for supporting UNICEF's protection team in Colombia. The volunteer will provide direct technical assistance to the Delegate for Childhood, Youth, and Elderly of the Defensoría del Pueblo, focusing on strengthening child protection in armed conflict contexts. This includes monitoring serious violations against children and adolescents, as well as working on the prevention and restoration of rights for children recruited and used in conflict. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders and the ability to analyze and report on child protection issues, ensuring that the rights of affected children are upheld and promoted.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Voluntario/a de Naciones Unidas Especialista include supporting the monitoring, reporting, and management of information related to serious violations against children and adolescents. The volunteer will coordinate with the Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism on grave violations against children in armed conflict, as established by the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council Resolution 161

• Responsibilities also involve assisting in the analysis and drafting of periodic reports for the Defensoría del Pueblo regarding serious violations and the protection and restoration of rights for children affected by armed conflict. The volunteer will strengthen the capacities of territorial teams and counterparts in child protection, conduct field missions in conflict-affected areas, and support the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the annual protection team plan. Additionally, the volunteer will prepare narrative and financial reports for donors and participate in internal meetings and processes at UNICEF. Other tasks may be assigned by the supervisor as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess strong analytical and reporting skills, with a solid understanding of child protection issues, particularly in the context of armed conflict. The ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government entities and civil society organizations, is essential. The volunteer should demonstrate adaptability, creativity, and professionalism in their approach to work. A commitment to confidentiality and the ethical handling of sensitive information is also required.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background in social sciences, international relations, human rights, or a related field is necessary for this position. Candidates should have a strong understanding of child rights and protection frameworks, as well as familiarity with the legal and policy context surrounding children in armed conflict.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in child protection, humanitarian work, or related fields. Experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly children and adolescents, is highly valued. Familiarity with monitoring and reporting mechanisms related to child rights violations is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, given the local context and the need for effective communication with stakeholders. Proficiency in English is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is as specified, with the possibility of extensions based on funding availability, operational needs, and satisfactory performance. The volunteer will receive a monthly living allowance of $6,082,394 COP to cover housing, services, and ordinary living expenses. Health, life, and permanent disability insurance, as well as final repatriation (if applicable), are included. The assignment requires full availability and exclusivity with the United Nations system. As a national UN volunteer, the individual will be responsible for securing their own housing and other essentials for living. National UN Volunteers are part of the insurance plan against intentional damage. For more information on benefits and allowances, candidates can refer to the UNV platform calculator and the UN Volunteer Conditions of Service.