Call for Voluntary Applicants to be Part of the Civil Society National Reference Group

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, was established to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization operates globally, focusing on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and has a mission that emphasizes the importance of addressing issues such as maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, reinforcing its commitment to the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNFPA has a significant presence in Zambia, collaborating with the government and various stakeholders to implement programs that enhance sexual and reproductive health services and rights.

Job Overview:
The position involves being part of the Civil Society National Reference Group (CS-NRG) for the Spotlight Initiative in Zambia, which aims to eliminate violence against women and girls. The CS-NRG will consist of around 15 experts who will provide strategic direction and advice on national policy issues related to gender equality and women's empowerment. Members will engage in high-level advocacy, support visibility for the initiative, and disseminate messages to the public, particularly marginalized groups. The role is voluntary, and members will be expected to participate actively in consultations and provide feedback on the implementation of the Spotlight Country Programme. The CS-NRG will also work closely with UN agencies and implementing partners to ensure effective programming and address the needs of the most marginalized communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The CS-NRG will have several key responsibilities, including advising on the strategic direction of the Spotlight Initiative’s Country Programme, providing insights on current issues related to eliminating violence against women and girls, and partnering on advocacy and communications efforts. Members will support the dissemination of messages about the initiative, engage in consultations with various groups, and provide feedback on the programme's implementation. They will also connect with global and regional Civil Society Reference Groups to share knowledge and develop solutions to common challenges. The CS-NRG will meet quarterly to review its mandate, propose a work plan, and agree on tasks and deliverables for the year ahead.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess significant experience in women's rights and gender equality, with expertise in eliminating violence against women and girls. They should have knowledge of human rights and feminist frameworks, as well as experience in protection issues. The selection process will prioritize individuals from national and local women’s rights organizations, ensuring representation from diverse communities, including survivors of violence, activists, and representatives from various marginalized groups. Geographic balance and representation of women’s rights movements are essential criteria for selection.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, candidates are expected to have a strong background in gender studies, social sciences, human rights, or related fields that equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to engage effectively in discussions and advocacy related to gender equality and women's empowerment.

Experience:
Candidates should have a proven track record of working on issues related to women's rights, gender equality, and violence against women and girls. Experience in advocacy, policy development, and community engagement is highly desirable. The role requires individuals who can demonstrate their ability to influence and drive change within their communities and at the national level.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of UNFPA. Knowledge of local languages may be beneficial for engaging with diverse communities and stakeholders in Zambia.

Additional Notes:
The CS-NRG operates on a voluntary basis, meaning that members will not receive compensation for their roles. The initiative is set to run for 33 months, starting in April 2025 and concluding in December 202

• Members are expected to participate in quarterly meetings and contribute to the development of a work plan and budget for the group's activities. The application process requires candidates to submit a cover letter, a bio profile detailing their experience with similar projects, and a CV. UNFPA will facilitate the selection process and provide necessary documentation and logistical support for the CS-NRG's functioning.