Gender Expert

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women, established in July 2010, is dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. It operates globally, advocating for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls, and promoting their leadership and participation in decision-making processes. UN Women works in various countries, including Kyrgyzstan, where it focuses on improving the lives of women and girls through initiatives that address violence against women, economic empowerment, and health issues, particularly in relation to HIV/AIDS. The organization aims to create a diverse and inclusive environment and has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its mission.

Job Overview:
The Gender Expert position is crucial for supporting the development of the National Programme to overcome HIV infection and blood-borne viral hepatitis for 2025-2030 in Kyrgyzstan. The expert will conduct gender analysis, identify gender-related gaps in the HIV response, and provide strategic recommendations to ensure that the programme addresses the specific needs of women and girls living with HIV. This role involves collaboration with government agencies, key population groups, and other stakeholders to promote gender-sensitive approaches in health policies and programming. The expert will also facilitate stakeholder consultations and capacity-building activities, ensuring that the voices of women affected by HIV are included in the programme's development.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct Gender Analysis: Familiarize with the UNAIDS Gender Assessment Tool (GAT) and perform a comprehensive gender analysis of the HIV/AIDS landscape in Kyrgyzstan through desk reviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Present findings to the Working Group to inform the National Programme.
• Suggest Gender-Responsive Inputs: Develop recommendations, indicators, and budget inputs for the National Programme, ensuring alignment with international standards.
• Facilitate Stakeholder Consultations: Participate in Working Group meetings and support consultations with women living with HIV and other key populations to ensure their perspectives are included.
• Capacity Building & Technical Support: Provide training and technical support to government stakeholders on integrating gender equality in HIV-related policies.
• Reporting and Follow-up: Regularly update UN Women on gender considerations in the National Programme drafts and submit a final report detailing the inclusion of gender aspects in the programme's priorities and activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in gender studies, public health, social sciences, development studies, or related fields. They should have a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in gender equality, HIV/AIDS programming, or public health, with a focus on promoting the rights of women living with HIV. Knowledge of global health policy, health funding, and gender budgeting is advantageous, along with demonstrated expertise in gender mainstreaming and strong communication skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as gender studies, public health, social sciences, or development studies is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of gender issues in health and development contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in areas related to gender equality, HIV/AIDS programming, or public health. Candidates should have substantial knowledge of global health policies and experience in promoting the rights of women living with HIV, as well as expertise in gender mainstreaming and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz is mandatory for this role. Knowledge of English and any other UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is home-based but requires attendance at regular meetings at the Republican AIDS Coordinating Center. UN Women will facilitate travel arrangements and provide daily subsistence allowances as per actual costs. The consultancy aims to ensure that the National Programme is gender-sensitive and effectively addresses the needs of women affected by HIV/AIDS, promoting equitable access to prevention, treatment, care, and support services.