UN Volunteer - Business and Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that works in over 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to help countries achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) by promoting transformational change through strategic partnerships with governments, civil society, and the private sector. In Pakistan, UNDP focuses on building a more equitable, prosperous, peaceful, and resilient society, supporting the government and people in their development efforts. The organization emphasizes capacity development, technical assistance, and effective monitoring and evaluation to ensure transparency and accountability in its programs. UNDP's mission in Pakistan includes improving the lives of vulnerable communities, promoting human rights, and ensuring inclusive service delivery across all regions of the country.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer (UNV) position is part of the UNDP Pakistan’s Decentralization, Human Rights and Local Governance (DHL) project, which aims to strengthen rights-based development and promote social inclusion. The incumbent will be stationed at the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) Head Office in Islamabad and will play a crucial role in supporting the Ministry's coordination efforts related to the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP-BHR). The position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including federal and provincial government entities, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to ensure effective implementation of the NAP-BHR. The UNV will assist in organizing meetings, workshops, and capacity-building events, as well as maintaining communication and partnerships with relevant stakeholders to promote human rights and responsible business practices in Pakistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including supporting the MoHR in coordinating national efforts for NAP-BHR implementation, monitoring, and reporting. This includes conducting background research, drafting agendas, taking minutes, and facilitating meetings of the Federal Steering Committee. The UNV will also assist in organizing consultations, workshops, and awareness-raising events, liaise with stakeholders for mid-term reviews, and support the establishment of provincial steering committees. Additionally, the UNV will collect data for reporting purposes, track partnerships, and engage with human rights institutions and civil society organizations to ensure a participatory approach to NAP-BHR implementation. Administrative support tasks will also be part of the role, including maintaining documentation, organizing meetings, and preparing materials for senior officers' visits.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A good understanding of human rights issues, particularly in the context of business and governance, is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate adaptability, creativity, and professionalism in their approach to tasks. Proficiency in using standard office software and tools for documentation and reporting is also required. Additionally, the candidate should be able to manage multiple tasks effectively and maintain a high level of accountability in their work.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, law, international relations, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights, governance, or business ethics would be an asset. Candidates should have a strong academic background that demonstrates their understanding of the complexities surrounding human rights and business practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 1-2 years of relevant experience in human rights, governance, or development work. Experience working with government entities, civil society organizations, or international organizations is highly desirable. Familiarity with the UN system and knowledge of the local context in Pakistan will be advantageous. The ability to engage with various stakeholders and facilitate discussions on human rights issues is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in Urdu or other local languages is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and communities. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, depending on the specific needs of the role.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UNV assignment, and the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The UNV Field Unit will assist in opening a local bank account for salary disbursement. The position may require occasional travel within Pakistan to support the implementation of NAP-BHR activities. The role is full-time and may involve flexible working hours to accommodate meetings and events.