Specialist in Social and Human Rights

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Position Title: Specialist in Social and Human Rights
Location: Geneva, remote
Country: Switzerland, remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy for over 50 years. It operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental issues at the international level.

Job Overview:
The position of Specialist in Social and Human Rights focuses on integrating social and gender considerations into the financial sector's alignment with climate and environmental objectives. The consultant will work closely with the UNEP FI social and Human Rights Lead and collaborate with UNEP FI members and coordinators to implement strategies that support the Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) and Principles for Sustainable Insurance (PSI). This role is pivotal in ensuring that social and human rights strategies are effectively integrated into the financial industry, promoting gender equality, decent employment, and financial inclusion. The consultant will also engage with various stakeholders to facilitate the practical implementation of these strategies, ensuring alignment with UN frameworks and UNEP FI's overarching goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at advancing UNEP FI's social issues work. Key responsibilities include: supporting thematic, regional, and industry teams to mainstream gender across UNEP FI; implementing the social and human rights strategy and work plan; engaging with governance bodies on social issues; providing operational support for the delivery of UNEP FI's strategy for 2025; assisting in the delivery of industry and regional activities from a social perspective; contributing content for UNEP FI communications; maintaining the social issues pages of the UNEP FI website; and building strategic partnerships with key stakeholders. The consultant will also serve as a focal point for the pollution team and will report to the Programme Management Officer while working closely with the social and human rights team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in social, development, or economic studies or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of professional experience in social and human rights matters is required, with specific expertise in gender issues. The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in understanding the interconnections between human rights, social impacts, and environmental outcomes, particularly in the context of financial institutions. Familiarity with sustainable banking practices and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders are essential qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social, development, or economic studies is required. Candidates with advanced degrees in related fields may have an advantage. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in social sciences, human rights, and economic principles relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of professional experience in social and human rights, with a strong emphasis on gender issues. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in international multi-stakeholder environments and contributing strategically to initiatives that address social and environmental challenges. Experience in the financial sector, particularly regarding gender-specific aspects, is highly desirable.

Languages:
English is the primary working language of UNEP FI, and proficiency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be remote and has a duration of nine months. The consultant will work full-time and is expected to deliver high-quality outputs within agreed timeframes. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process. Candidates should be prepared to work in a multicultural environment and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a commitment to the organization's mission.