Mission and objectives

UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience in order to sustain development results. The UNDP Multi-Country Office (MCO) based in Samoa, which covers Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa and Tokelau, implements the UNDP Subregional Programme Document for the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (2018-22), which is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and country priorities as reflected in national development plans. In close partnership with the four Governments, UNDP works in collaboration with donors, the private sector, civil society organizations and local communities, academia, media and regional organizations to provide global knowledge and integrated development solutions to development challenges. UNDP promotes a whole-of-society approach to deliver on the ambition of the 2030 Agenda, with greater involvement of civil society actors, emphasis on empowering women, youth and vulnerable groups, and centered on the principle of leaving no one behind.

Context

Development challenges in the Pacific Islands Countries are multi-faceted and complex. To respond to these challenges, the UNDP Samoa Multi-Country Office (MCO) concentrates its efforts on building the capacity of the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, and Tokelau to promote inclusive, blue-green, and pro-poor growth, effective governance, and sustainable and resilient development that leverages innovation and digital transformation and seeks to catalyze financing for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We help our partners in identifying relevant solutions to their most significant development challenges and offer policy and implementation services to address these challenges. Guided by the UNDP Multi-Country Programme Document (MCPD) for the Pacific Island Countries and Territories 2023-27, the MCO’s policy, advisory, programmatic, and implementation services focuses on the following areas: a) Peace: inclusive governance, justice, and peace; b) Prosperity: inclusive, blue-green, and sustainable growth; c) Planet: sustainable management of natural resources, biodiversity conservation, strengthened climate and disaster resilience and management. UNDP’s programme is anchored in the principle of leaving no one behind, with specific focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment including the fight to end violence against women and girls, and empowerment and engagement of youth and Persons with Disabilities. The MCO serves the four countries from its office located in Apia, where it hosts approximately 40 personnel. The objective of this position is to provide technical, analytical, and operational support to the Samoa MCO’s environment and climate change programmes, strengthening project planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. The UN Volunteer will assist in ensuring effective programme delivery, enhance stakeholder engagement, and contribute to knowledge management and capacity-building initiatives that advance Samoa’s sustainable development priorities and climate resilience efforts.

Task Description

The Programme Associate will support the implementation and coordination of the UNDP MCO’s Environment and Climate Change portfolio. Working under the direct supervision of the Programme Officer of the Environment and Climate Change Unit (ECCU), s/he will contribute to project and programme implementation support, technical research and policy support, and stakeholder engagement for initiatives related to environmental management, biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable land use. The role will involve supporting the delivery of projects funded by partners such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF), strengthening collaboration with government counterparts and partners, and contributing to knowledge management, reporting, and resource mobilization efforts to ensure effective programme implementation and impact. Under the direct supervision of Programme Officer of the Environment and Climate Change, providing guidance on the assigned tasks, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: Support Project and Programme Management: Assist in the planning, coordination, and implementation of the MCO's environmental and climate change projects including those funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and potentially the Adaptation Fund. Support programme monitoring, including field activities, capacity building for the project counterparts, tracking progress, identifying implementation challenges, and proposing remedial actions. Assist in preparation and review of reports, workplans, and other documentation in coordination with government counterparts, civil society organizations, and other partners. Contribute to resource mobilization activities, including drafting project proposals, contracts, and supporting budget and procurement processes. Provide Technical and Policy Support: Conduct research, analyze data, and prepare briefs on environmental management, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, ecosystem-based approaches, and sustainable land use. Assist in organizing workshops, training sessions, and consultations for government counterparts, communities, and civil society partners Document lessons learned, best practices, and success stories to support knowledge management, visibility, and donor reporting. Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement: Support the engagement and collaboration with government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and local communities. Support coordination of meetings, workshops, and joint initiatives to strengthen partnerships and enhance programme outcomes.

Competencies and values

​​☒​Accountability ​​☒​Professionalism ​​☒​Ethics and Values ​​☒​Respect for Diversity ​​☒​Adaptability and Flexibility ​​☒​Commitment to Continuous Learning ​​☒​Building Trust

Living conditions and remarks

Apia, the capital of Samoa, offers relatively comfortable living conditions compared with many small island developing states. Basic infrastructure and services such as electricity, water supply, telecommunications, banking, and healthcare are available, though options may be more limited than in larger cities. A reasonable range of housing options, supermarkets, restaurants, and recreational facilities are accessible in Apia. Internet connectivity is generally available, although speeds may vary. Public transportation is limited, while private taxis are widely available. Although the assignment does not require driving, having a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle can be convenient for daily commuting and mobility within and around Apia. It is possible for international personnel to obtain a driver’s license in Samoa. The country has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and a rainy season typically from November to April. Samoa is considered safe and welcoming, with a strong community culture and high levels of social cohesion. However, due to its remote island location, the cost of living can be relatively high, particularly for imported goods.