Social Policy Officer

Mission and objectives

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programs, in advocacy, and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfill their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children. This is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

Context

Under the direct supervision of the Social Policy Specialist and the general guidance of the Deputy Representative, the National UN Volunteer Specialist is accountable for providing technical support and assistance in all stages of social policy programming and related advocacy at the local level, from strategic planning and formulation to delivery of concrete and sustainable results. These responsibilities encompass (a) improving public policies to reduce child poverty; (b) enhancing social protection coverage and its impact on children; (c) ensuring transparency, adequacy, equity, and efficiency of child-focused public investments and financial management; and (d) implementing governance, decentralization and accountability measures to increase public participation and improve the quality, equity, and coverage of social services. Additionally, the role involves direct programmatic work with government and civil society partners, as well as facilitating linkages and providing support to teams working on education, health, child protection, , and climate change.

Task description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of Social Policy Specialist NOC or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Social Policy Officer will: Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

1. Improving data at the local level on child poverty & vulnerability for increased use of local policy and programme action

2. Strengthening social protection coverage and impact for children

3. Strengthening capacity of local governments to plan, budget, consult on and monitor child-focused social services.

4. Strengthened advocacy and partnerships for child-sensitive social policy

• Supports correct and compelling use of data and evidence on the situation of children and coverage and impact of child focused services – in support of the social policy programme and the country programme overall.

Results/expected outputs:

• As an active UNICEF team member, efficient, timely, responsive, client-friendly and high-quality support rendered to UNICEF and its beneficiaries in the accomplishment of her/his functions, including:

• The efficient and effective technical, administrative and operational support provided to the development and implementation of strategic and effective advocacy, planning and formulation of social policy programmes/projects and the achievement of sustainable results, contributes to achievement of goals and objectives to create a protective environment for children and thus ensure their survival, development and well-being in society.

• Achievements in social policy programmes and projects in turn contribute to maintaining/enhancing the credibility and ability of UNICEF to provide programme services for mothers and children that promotes greater social equality in the country.

• Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) perspective is systematically applied, integrated and documented in all activities throughout the assignment.

• A final statement of achievements towards volunteerism for peace and development during the assignment, such as reporting on the number of volunteers mobilized, activities participated in and capacities developed.

Required experience

1 years of experience in Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or another relevant technical field.

• A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience is required, preferably in planning and/or data analysis.

• Experience working in or with city/island councils is considered as a strong asset.

• Fluency in English and Dhivehi is required. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) is an asset. Other desired technical knowledge:

• Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills;

• Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing;

• Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development;

• Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel;

• Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment;

• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines;

Languages

English, Level: Fluent, Required Dhivehi, Level: Fluent, Required

Required education level

Bachelor degree or equivalent in Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or another relevant technical field