UN Associate Volunteer - Climate Change and Resilience

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working towards three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. In India, UNFPA has been active since 1974, addressing various population and development issues, particularly in the context of gender equality and social inclusion.

Job Overview:
The UN Associate Volunteer will play a crucial role in supporting the UNFPA Odisha State Office by conducting preliminary research and compiling evidence related to climate change, disaster risk, and social vulnerabilities. The position involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government departments, UN agencies, and civil society organizations, to enhance the integration of gender equality and social inclusion within disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts. The volunteer will assist in preparing background notes, policy briefs, and documentation of good practices, contributing to the overall mission of strengthening community resilience in the face of climate change and disasters. This role is vital in ensuring that the needs of marginalized groups are addressed in disaster management frameworks and that the evidence base for gender-transformative approaches is documented and utilized effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Associate Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting preliminary desk research and evidence compilation on the interconnections between climate change, disaster risk, and social vulnerabilities in Odisha.
• Preparing background notes, policy briefs, presentations, and concept notes on issues related to climate resilience and demographic change.
• Mapping relevant government policies, programs, and institutions involved in climate change and disaster resilience.
• Documenting the partnership between UNFPA and the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), including initiatives and capacity-building activities.
• Compiling and organizing disaggregated data and evidence related to gender and climate vulnerability.
• Participating in consultations and workshops, contributing to meeting briefs and documentation.
• Maintaining stakeholder mappings and evidence repositories to support knowledge management.
• Assisting in the preparation of inputs for proposals and identifying future engagement opportunities with OSDMA and other institutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear and concise documents. Proficiency in data collection and analysis, as well as familiarity with gender and social inclusion issues, is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a commitment to UNFPA's mission and values, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary for effective engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, environmental studies, public policy, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding climate change, disaster risk, and social vulnerabilities.

Experience:
While prior experience in a similar role is not mandatory, any relevant internships or volunteer experiences in research, policy analysis, or community engagement will be beneficial. Familiarity with the socio-economic context of Odisha and experience working with marginalized communities would be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages, particularly Odia, would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position offers a Monthly Voluntary Living Allowance (VLA) of INR 56,126.74, along with a one-time entry lump sum payment of USD 350 and relocation costs of $175 if applicable. Volunteers will receive comprehensive health and life insurance coverage, as well as an exit allowance of $120 for each month served upon successful completion of the assignment. Additionally, volunteers will have access to UNV's learning and career development resources.