Gender and Human Rights Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and human rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and women's empowerment as fundamental human rights and essential for sustainable development. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning its goals with the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Gender and Human Rights Adviser position at UNFPA's West Africa Regional Office (WCARO) is a senior role that provides integrated policy, technical, and programmatic advice on gender and human rights across the region. The adviser will work closely with the Regional Director and Deputy Regional Director, as well as with thematic advisers, to strengthen regional and national protection systems for advancing human rights and promoting sexual and reproductive rights. This role involves analyzing regional trends, contributing to strategic actions, and ensuring that gender and human rights are integrated into development frameworks and programs. The adviser will also collaborate with various stakeholders, including country offices and other regional units, to provide comprehensive support and ensure the effective implementation of UNFPA's policies and strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Gender and Human Rights Adviser will be responsible for providing strategic advice and oversight in gender equality and human rights, including the management of flagship programs such as the Spotlight Initiative and the global program on child marriage. The adviser will analyze trends and risks related to gender equality and human rights, support the integration of strategic actions to engage men and boys, and contribute to the development of policies and frameworks that address the region-specific gender and human rights agenda. Additionally, the adviser will provide technical support and capacity development to country offices, ensuring the application of gender transformative approaches and the integration of evidence-informed thinking in programming. The role also includes knowledge management, advocacy, and partnership development, representing UNFPA in various forums and collaborating with stakeholders to advance gender and human rights initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in gender studies, public health, sociology, human rights, or a related field. They should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in gender-based violence (GBV) programming, gender mainstreaming, and rights-based programming, with a minimum of 7 years at the international level. A strong understanding of a human rights-based approach is essential, along with extensive experience in policy advocacy for gender and human rights. Candidates should demonstrate technical leadership, capacity-building experience, and familiarity with UN systems and procedures.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree or equivalent in fields such as gender studies, anthropology, feminist studies, public health, sociology, human rights, law, cultural studies, or international development is required for this position. This educational background should directly relate to GBV prevention and response, equipping candidates with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to address complex gender and human rights issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in GBV programming and gender mainstreaming, with at least 7 years of this experience at the international level. This experience should include a strong track record of technical leadership and the ability to produce demonstrable results in gender and human rights initiatives. Field experience is strongly desirable, as it provides practical insights into the challenges and opportunities in implementing gender and human rights programs.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with country coordination groups and local organizations across the West and Central Africa region, where both languages are commonly used in professional settings.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and is committed to ensuring gender parity within the organization. The organization encourages applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ community members, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, and persons with disabilities. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements, and UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.