Child Protection Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established to work in some of the world’s toughest places, aims to reach the most disadvantaged children globally. The organization operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on saving lives, defending rights, and helping children fulfill their potential. UNICEF is committed to building a better world for everyone and has a strong presence in Slovakia, especially in response to the influx of Ukrainian refugees due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting Ukrainian adolescents and youth in Slovakia, particularly in integrating child protection measures and mental health support into existing frameworks. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries and local organizations, to ensure that vulnerable groups receive the necessary support and resources. This position requires a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees, particularly adolescents, and the ability to provide technical guidance to enhance their access to education and employment opportunities. The consultant will also be responsible for the handover of a digital platform that serves as a resource for Ukrainian youth, ensuring its sustainability and integration into national systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support to integrate child protection, case management, and community-based mental health services for Ukrainian refugee children within the SPACES framework.
• Participate in national technical working groups to provide inputs for the reform of mental health services, ensuring that lessons learned from the Pathways Initiative are incorporated.
• Advise the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family (MoLSAF) and the Ministry of Education on incorporating child protection measures into national strategies.
• Complete the handover of the Pathways digital platform, ensuring a smooth transition of ownership and functionality.
• Develop monthly work plans, participate in biweekly debriefs, and submit monthly reports on progress and deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
A Master’s Degree in psychology, sociology, international development, human rights, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or another relevant social science field is required. A minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in child protection and mental health programs, policymaking, and research at the international level is essential, particularly with experience in the Slovak Republic or similar contexts. Relevant experience working with Slovak national authorities is also required. Fluency in English and Slovak is mandatory, while experience working on the refugee response and the Pathways Initiative in Slovakia is considered an asset. Experience with UN organizations is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in a relevant field such as psychology, sociology, international development, human rights, or international law. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of child protection and mental health issues faced by vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of refugee crises.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience, particularly in child protection and mental health support programs. Candidates should have a strong background in policymaking and research, ideally at the international level, with specific experience in the Slovak Republic or similar contexts. Experience working with national authorities in Slovakia is essential, as is familiarity with the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Slovak is required for this position. These language skills are necessary for effective communication with stakeholders, including government officials and local organizations. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time home-based consultancy position, requiring 72 working days over a 4-month period from August to November 202

• Local travel is expected, including two trips to Kosice and two trips to other municipalities, with each trip lasting two days. The consultant will be responsible for developing work plans, participating in meetings, and submitting reports on progress. UNICEF emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization also offers flexible working arrangements and is committed to safeguarding children and promoting their rights.