UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) serves as the development arm of the United Nations, established in 196

• It operates in 170 countries and has a mission to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and combat climate change. UNDP collaborates with governments and partners to create sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet. In Sri Lanka, UNDP has been a strategic partner to the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) for over five decades, focusing on crisis prevention, governance, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. The organization aims to build institutional and individual capacities to address climate change and disaster response, advocating for democratic governance and inclusive institutions.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position involves supporting the implementation of the project 'Promoting Participation Pathways for Human Development – 3P4D,' which aims to foster an enabling environment for civic participation in Sri Lanka. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to draft and monitor work plans, organize public events, and prepare communication materials. The volunteer will also assist in ensuring timely delivery of project initiatives and contribute to the overall goals of enhancing citizen participation, particularly focusing on gender equality and youth inclusion in public life. This position is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by Sri Lanka in the wake of recent political and economic changes, and it emphasizes the importance of collaborative dialogue and advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer include:

• Supporting the drafting, monitoring, and implementation of multi-year and annual work plans, ensuring progress is tracked against approved timelines.
• Assisting the Technical Specialist in drafting terms of reference, project concept notes, and proposals related to the project.
• Organizing and coordinating public events such as meetings, training programs, workshops, and awareness-raising campaigns.
• Preparing resource and communication materials, as well as drafting meeting notes and minutes.
• Monitoring the progress of project-related initiatives and collaborating with the project team and stakeholders to ensure timely delivery of interventions.
• Performing any other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability to the needs of the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer position should possess strong organizational and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. They should exhibit accountability, adaptability, creativity, and professionalism. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. A strong commitment to the values of the United Nations, particularly in relation to human rights and gender equality, is essential.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in social sciences, international relations, development studies, or a related field. Candidates should have a solid understanding of civic engagement, public policy, and the socio-political context of Sri Lanka, as well as familiarity with the UN system and its operations.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience in project management, community engagement, or related fields. While specific years of experience may not be mandated, prior involvement in volunteer work, internships, or professional roles that demonstrate relevant skills and knowledge will be advantageous. Experience working in multicultural environments and with diverse stakeholders is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of Sinhala or Tamil would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, meaning that the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position may involve full-time commitment, and the volunteer will be expected to engage actively with various stakeholders in the community. Compensation details and benefits will be provided by the UNV program, and the role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful development work in Sri Lanka.