Chief of Section for Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists

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Position Title: Chief of Section for Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists
Location: Paris
Country: France
Deadline Date: 10-MAR-2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on fostering freedom of expression, media development, and building knowledge societies. The organization aims to promote universal access to information and innovation for sustainable development, while preserving documentary heritage.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section for Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists will lead thematic programs aimed at promoting freedom of expression and ensuring the safety of journalists. This role involves defining priorities in collaboration with senior management and translating them into actionable strategies and initiatives. The incumbent will oversee the implementation of UNESCO's Medium-Term Strategy and the approved Programme and Budget, ensuring alignment with global development plans such as the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The position requires a strong focus on resource mobilization, policy development, and capacity building, as well as the ability to represent UNESCO at various international forums and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide thematic program leadership and guidance across Sections and Field Offices.
• Conceptualize, develop, and deliver comprehensive strategies and policies.
• Direct the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of work plans and initiatives.
• Ensure the transformation of work plans into innovative programs and campaigns.
• Seek and explore resource mobilization opportunities for extrabudgetary resources.
• Supervise the funding process, including developing proposals and donor reports.
• Provide authoritative advice to stakeholders on emerging trends and challenges.
• Formulate policies to address issues related to freedom of expression and safety of journalists.
• Represent the Section at national, regional, and international meetings. 1
• Supervise and empower staff, ensuring continuous learning and development.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in communication and information, political sciences, international relations, or related areas.
• At least ten years of progressively responsible professional experience in policy analysis, research, editing, and/or project management related to freedom of expression and safety of journalists.
• Proven leadership experience in planning and managing international projects and programs.
• Demonstrated experience in multi-stakeholder consultations and collaborative projects.
• Relevant work experience with the United Nations or international organizations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in fields such as communication and information, political sciences, international relations, or related areas. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of the role and the issues at hand.

Experience:
The position requires at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields, with a strong emphasis on policy analysis, project management, and leadership. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of experience at the international level, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex global issues and engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English or French is mandatory, with good knowledge of the other language being desirable. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those of UNESCO's official languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The contract is fixed-term for a duration of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal. The position is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 142,257 USD, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups, including individuals from minority and indigenous communities.