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, which 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

Gender Equality is essential to the achievement of UNICEF’s goals. UNICEF India Country Programme Document (CPD 2023–2027) identifies gender and equity as overarching principles for achieving programme and institutional outcomes. UNICEF India’s Gender Equality strategy is guided by the UNICEF Gender Policy (2021–2030), Strategic Plans (2022–2025; 2026–2029), and Gender Equality Action Plans (GEAP 2022–2025; GEAP 2026–2029).The Gender functions within UNICEF is situated within the Programme effectiveness function providing cross cutting support to sections and 13 field offices through the gender focal point network. The proposed assignment will support the Gender function towards programme effectiveness of the gender programming across sections and state offices through support towards coordination, knowledge management, documentation, technical assistance and monitoring support.

Task Description

Under the direct supervision of Gender and Development Specialist (Lead), UNICEF, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: • Program implementation support: Contribute to the implementation of the gender work plan for the 2023–2027 country program and state workplans, with a focus on supporting regular coordination meetings, and technical assistance to collaborative tasks with gender focal network. • Knowledge management: Support programme-related documentation, publications, and reports in coordination with gender focal points through regular communication and information sharing. • Reporting contributions: Contribute to ICO specific, regional and global reporting asks and briefing documents, and coordinate with gender focals and sections for reporting on gender results and sharing status of gender marker. • Documentation and analysis: Support program and project reports or briefing document required for front office, sections and state offices government reviews, program analysis, annual reports, etc. • Strategic inputs: Assist in drafting briefing notes, talking points, funding proposals, and presentations.

Competencies and values

Organization’s competencies: Commitment, Drive for Results, Embracing Diversity, Integrity, Self-Awareness & Self-Regulation, Teamwork • Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to UNICEF; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to UNICEF procedures & rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy & tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise & coordinate with a range of different actors, especially in senior positions; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative & ability to take ownership; resourcefulness & willingness to accept wide responsibilities & ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately & confidentially; responsive & client-oriented; • Integrity: demonstrate the values & ethical standards of the UN & UNICEF in daily activities & behaviours while acting without consideration of personal gains; resist undue political pressure in decision-making; st& by decisions that are in the organization’s interest even if they are unpopular; take prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour; does not abuse power or authority; • Teamwork & respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish & maintain effective partnerships & harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity & respect for diversity; sensitivity & adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality & age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation & full involvement of women & men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals & provide guidance or training to colleagues; • Commitment to continuous learning: initiative & willingness to learn new skills & stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment. • Planning & organizing effective organizational & problem-solving skills & ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient & timely manner; ability to establish priorities & to plan, coordinate & monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, & to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities; • Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken & written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear & concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options & positions concisely; ability to make & defend recommendations; ability to communicate & empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts & local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information & knowledge to a wide range of different target groups • Flexibility: adaptability & ability to live & work in potentially hazardous & remote conditions, involving physical hardship & little comfort; to operate independently in austere environments for protracted periods; willingness to travel within the area of operations & to transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations as necessary; • Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity & self-reliance; & commitment towards UNICEF’s mission & vision, as well as to the UN Core Values.

Living conditions and remarks

The assignment will be based in New Delhi. New Delhi is the capital city of India, experiences a diverse climate and has distinct living conditions influenced by its weather, infrastructure, and culture. A melting pot of cultures, languages, and cuisines, reflecting the diverse nature of India. Overall, living in Delhi offers a mix of modern urban life with deep-rooted traditions and challenges typical of a large, bustling metropolis. As this is a national UN Volunteer assignment, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. This position is based in UNICEF’s office, New Delhi. National UN Volunteers are part of the malicious insurance plan. National UN Volunteers are expected to be culturally sensitive and adjust to the prevailing culture and traditions. The contract lasts for the period indicated above with possibility of extensions subject to availability of funding, operational necessity and satisfactory performance. However, there is no expectation of renewal of the assignment. The applicable Volunteer Living Allowance is provided monthly to cover housing, utilities and normal cost of living expenses. Life, health and permanent disability insurance are included (health insurance for up to 3 dependents - except for UN Community Volunteers), as well as final repatriation (if applicable). You can check full entitlements at https://app.unv.org/calculator. For information specific to your assignment, please see below: • Monthly Voluntary Living Allowance (VLA): INR 70,158.41 • Entry lump sum (one-time payment): USD 350 (equivalent in INR) • Relocation costs: $175 at the beginning and end of the assignment if the duty station is outside of commuting distance (as determined by UNV) • Exit allowance (paid on successful completion of the assignment): $120 for each month served, paid on completion of contract • Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for health, life, and malicious acts • Annual leave: 2.5 days per month • Learning: Access to UNV's learning and career development resources. For more information on entitlements please read the Conditions of Service (https://explore.unv.org/cos).