Expert for Landscape Analysis on Gen Z Civic and Political Participation

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Expert for Landscape Analysis on Gen Z Civic and Political Participation
Location: Paris
Country: France
Deadline Date: 07-03-2025

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 presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women. The organization operates through various programs and initiatives that focus on education, science, culture, communication, and information, fostering sustainable development and intercultural dialogue. UNESCO is committed to promoting the right to education, protecting cultural heritage, and ensuring freedom of expression, among other core values.

Job Overview:
The position involves conducting a comprehensive landscape analysis to understand the civic and political participation of Generation Z. This research project aims to explore the motivations behind Gen Z's engagement in civic and political actions, examining how their identities, experiences, relationships, actions, and contexts influence their participation. The project seeks to produce a global study that addresses the central research question: 'What motivates and affects the civic and political actions of Gen Z and how?' The analysis will require collaboration with an Expert Group of scholars and will focus on data collected over the past five to seven years, ensuring a rigorous examination of the factors influencing Gen Z's civic engagement. The successful candidates will be responsible for writing a detailed manuscript that meets UNESCO's publication standards, integrating peer review feedback, and ensuring the highest academic rigor in their research.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The experts will undertake state-of-the-art research, identifying relevant literature and data sources that inform the landscape analysis. They will engage with Gen Z young people to gather insights and perspectives, ensuring that the analysis reflects their voices. The incumbents will write a full manuscript of approximately 75 pages, adhering to UNESCO's publication guidelines, and will be responsible for revisions and final drafts that meet the organization's standards. They will also advise on potential peer reviewers and ensure that the research maintains the highest standards of scientific and academic integrity. Collaboration with the Chief of the Youth Section and the Associate Programme Specialist will be essential to align the analysis with UNESCO's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD degree in social and political sciences, humanities, youth development, or a relevant field. They should have a minimum of five years of work experience in research focused on youth political and civic participation, with at least one year specifically related to Generation Z. Proven knowledge of the thematic fields relevant to the project is essential, along with a record of high-quality scholarly research, including publications in peer-reviewed journals. Candidates should demonstrate strong conceptual and analytical skills, excellent research capabilities, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment while adhering to UN principles.

Educational Background:
A PhD degree in social and political sciences, humanities, youth development, or a related field is required for this position. This advanced educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of civic and political participation among young people, particularly those from Generation Z.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience, specifically in research related to youth political and civic participation. Candidates should have at least one year of experience focusing on Generation Z, demonstrating their familiarity with the unique characteristics and motivations of this demographic. A strong record of scholarly research and publications is also necessary to ensure the quality and credibility of the landscape analysis.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position, as the research and publication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the UNESCO framework and with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position ranges from one to six months, and it is open to external candidates. The recruitment process emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity. UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including those from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and ensures confidentiality in the application process. Candidates should submit a complete application, including a UNESCO Employment History Form, a Technical Proposal, and a Financial Proposal, to be considered for this position.