Disability and Inclusion Specialist

Job Title: Disability and Inclusion Specialist

Organization: United Nations Volunteers (UNV)

Host entity: UNICEF Moldova

Assignment country: Republic of Moldova

Expected start date: 03/09/2023

Sustainable Development Goal: 10. Reduced inequalities

Volunteer category: International UN Volunteer Expert

Type: Onsite

Duration: 3 months (with possibility of extension)

Number of assignments: 1

Duty stations: Chisinau

Details

Mission and objectives

UNICEF has been working for the realization of the rights of children and women of Moldova since 1995. Partnerships with the government, parliamentarians, civil society, media, business and others have resulted in advances in the realization of children’s rights in a number of areas and the increased commitment of duty bearers to the fulfillment of their obligations as per the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). UNICEF’s work addresses issues of all children in the country to improve their health, education, development, and protection.

Context

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programmes, 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 fulfil 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. Assignment organizational context: To ensure the mainstreaming of inclusion, mainly of children with disabilities, within education as well as other sectors in UNICEF Moldova Country Office programs, and the provision of technical support to UNICEF partners, the Disability and Inclusion Specialist at NOC Level will be responsible to carry influence in their own right and be given an office-wide mandate to engage with all sectors in meaningful programming. The Disability and Inclusion Specialist will be reporting to the P4 Deputy Representative, and this position serves as the primary inclusion expert in the Country Office for all sections. Purpose for the Assignment: Under the guidance of the Deputy Representative the Disability and Inclusion (DI) Specialist supports mainstreaming the crosscutting themes of disability and social inclusion, in the development and preparation of sector all programmes to ensure intersectorality and the centrality of the child in all interventions. The DI Specialist provides technical guidance and operational support throughout all stages of programming to facilitate the management and delivery of results contributing to mainstreaming disability and inclusion in the work of all sectors. S/he supports the development, implementation, and monitoring of high-quality disability and inclusion programming/projects across sectors and supports program colleagues and management of the Country Office to advance disability and inclusion mainstreaming in program and operation. The DI Specialist contributes to achievement of results according to plans, allocation, results based-management approaches and methodology (RBM), as well as UNICEF’s Strategic Plans, standards of performance, and accountability framework. UNICEF offers reasonable accommodation for UN Volunteers with disabilities. This may include, for example, accessible software, travel assistance for missions or personal attendants. We encourage you to disclose your disability during your application in case you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process and afterwards in your assignment.

Task description

Key functions/accountabilities: 1. Support to programme development and planning • Participate and support in evidence-based programme/project planning on disability and inclusion, incorporating robust measurement and evaluation of results. Implement a cross-sectoral approach and strive towards systemic changes sectorally and cross-sectorally. • Provide technical leadership on mainstreaming disability and inclusion into country programming. • In collaboration with sectoral programme colleagues and programme and senior management identify the areas of focus for disability and inclusion programming/projects with the greatest potential for impact and scale, in alignment with the disability and inclusion agenda and the country/regional priorities. • Work with sectoral colleagues, managers and senior management to incorporate sound disability and inclusion indicators measures in programme/project and policy initiatives, proposals, and advocacy efforts and assist in developing disability-sensitive theories of change models for sector and cross-sectoral programming. • Support sectors to ensure that current and comprehensive data on relevant sector issues is available to guide UNICEF’s strategic policy, advocacy, intervention and development efforts in the area of disability and inclusion. • Help supervisor set priorities, strategies, design and implementation plans. Keep abreast of development trends to enhance programme management, efficiency and delivery. • Participate in strategic programme discussion on the planning of programmes as we as support the design and preparation of programme funding proposals for the sectors for development and humanitarian interventions. • Establish specific goals, objectives, strategies and implementation plans for the sectors using results-based planning terminology and methodology (RBM). Prepare required documentations for programme review and approval. • Work closely and collaboratively with colleagues and partners to discuss strategies and methodologies, and to determine national priorities to ensure the achievement of concrete and sustainable results. • Provide technical and operational support throughout all stages of programming processes and to ensure integration, coherence and harmonization of programmes/projects with other UNICEF sectors and achievement of results as planned and allocated. • Coordinate with the CO Programme sections and Regional Disability Advisors and the Headquarters Disability Sections to plan, utilize, monitor and report on the dedicated funds, or other programmatic funds with large disability and inclusion components that are allocated to the country’s specific interventions for the Country Programme, under the Country Office senior management. Liaise as needed, with regional advisers across all programme interventions as part of the cross-sectoral approach to programming and mainstreaming disability and inclusion in programs for all children. • In collaboration with sectoral colleagues and under the guidance of Deputy Representative, participate in the planning and monitoring of the utilization of the budget allocated to sectoral and cross-sectoral disability and inclusion interventions. • Lead the drafting of disability and inclusion components of the reporting of the routine country level programme activities and expenditures, including the annual reporting and the RAM. • Provide technical inputs and review of the disability and inclusion components in key funding proposal appeals and submissions and in the design of funded projects/programs so that these technical components are clearly defined and technical capacities are included. 2. Technical and operational support to program implementation monitoring and delivery of results and capacity building, including in emergencies contexts • Provide technical support and guidance to national government, NGOs, UN Agencies and other country-level and local-level partners on aspects of disability and inclusion programming and to ensure incorporation of disability and inclusion indicators and measures in programmes/projects, policy initiatives, proposals, and M&E systems. • Provide technical support and advocacy to reporting and follow-up on international and regional disability and inclusion related equity and equality commitments made by the country. • Support the development of adequate emergency preparedness measures, updating of contingency plans and establishment of early warning mechanisms that reflect disability and inclusion needs. • Develop/support the development of emergency trainings that incorporates disability and inclusion and relevant strategies. • Participate in needs assessment missions on disability and inclusion. • Support implementing/operational partners and implementing arrangements in order to ensure an effective, disability inclusive emergency response. • Provide technical guidance and operational support to government counterparts, NGO partners, UN system partners and country office partners and donors on interpretation, application and understanding of UNICEF policies, strategies, processes and best practices and approaches and related issues to support programme management, implementation and delivery of results. • Arrange/coordinate availability of technical experts with Regional Office/HQ to ensure timely and appropriate support throughout the programming process. • Participate in programme meetings including programme development and contingency planning to provide technical and operational information, advice and support. Participate and/or actively represent UNICEF in relevant coordination bodies at the interagency level (UN Disability & Inclusion Task Force, Interagency Refugee Disability Working Group and other networks and task forces). 5. Advocacy, Networking and partnership building • Liaise and consult with sections, government and other external partners (civil society, NGOs, private sector) to support convergence, and develop and reinforce partnerships in disability inclusive programming. • Support building and maintenance of internal and external partnerships and networks in the development of harmonized, disability transformative programme interventions. • Support building and maintenance of strategic alliances for disability equality with various partners, including institutional links with UN agencies and other relevant entities. • Collaborate with other UN agencies and partners to enhance robust disability and inclusion results in sectoral programmes at the country level. If necessary, represent UNICEF in external meetings on disability and inclusion integration into sectoral and cross-sectoral results. • Support mapping of potential new partnerships and leverage existing partnerships to accelerate disability and inclusion agenda implementation at the country level in determined priority areas. • Build and sustain effective close working partnerships with relevant government counterparts, national stakeholders, global partners, donors, and academia through active networking, advocacy and effective communication to build capacity, exchange knowledge/expertise and to reinforce cooperation to achieve sustainable and broad results across all programmes. • Prepare communication and information materials for CO programme advocacy to promote awareness, establish partnerships and support fundraising. • Participate and/or represent UNICEF in appropriate inter-agency (UNCT) discussions on education and related issues to collaborate with inter-agency partners/colleagues on UNSCDF planning and preparation of programmes/projects ensuring organizational position, interests and priorities are fully considered and integrated in the UNSCDF process in development planning and agenda setting. 4. Innovation, knowledge management and capacity building • Support documentation and sharing of the country-level experience in disability and inclusion programming and lessons learned, which will be shared with internal network and external partners. • Bring best practices in disability and inclusion programming and measurement to the attention of senior management and sectoral colleagues, as well as relevant Regional Advisors and section staff at HQ. • Supporting innovative research related disability and inclusion. • Support the advancement of the technical and research capacity of country level staff on disability and inclusion to continue to build evidence base for programming and to ensure continuous capacity in disability and inclusion at Country Office level. • Apply and introduce innovative approaches and good practices to build the capacity of partners and stakeholders and to support the implementation and delivery of concrete and sustainable programme results.

Eligibility criteria

Age

35 - 80

Nationality

Candidate must be a national of a country other than the country of assignment.

Requirements

Required experience

15 years of experience in relevant to the assignment areas, out of which minimum five (5) years of professional experience in programme planning, management, and/or research in disability and inclusion is required. - Experience working in a developing country is considered as an asset. - Relevant experience in a UN system agency or organization is considered as 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. - Sound security awareness. - Have affinity with or interest in UNICEF volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System.

Area(s) of expertise

Community development, Development programmes, Social work

Driving license

-

Languages

English, Level: Working knowledge, Required Romanian, Level: Fluent, Required

Required education level

Master degree or equivalent in education, public health, economics, psychology, social sciences, public administration, international law, gender studies, international relations or other related disciplines.

Competencies and values

Core Values - Care - Respect - Integrity - Trust - Accountability Core Competencies - Nurtures, Leads and Manages People (1) - Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness (2) - Works Collaboratively with others (2) - Builds and Maintains Partnerships (2) - Innovates and Embraces Change (2) - Thinks and Acts Strategically (2) - Drives to achieve impactful results (2) - Manages ambiguity and complexity (2) Functional Competencies - Analyzing (3) - Deciding and Initiating action (2) - Applying technical expertise (3)

Other information

Living conditions and remarks

Moldova is located in close vicinity to the war-affected Ukraine, with a “frozen conflict” in Transniestria region that dates back to 1990s. In spite of this, the country is not directly affected by (nor engaged in the military conflict), except for growing cost of living like in other countries in the ECA Region. According to the UN grading, the country has currently 3 (three) security level (totally safe). There is availability of various types of dwelling for rent, including apartments and hotels. The capital city – Chisinau is a safe town with normal living conditions having access to all urban infrastructure, i.e. healthcare facilities, shopping, airport, railway and other transportation etc. Chisinau city is small, easy to commute and navigate, while the whole country is easy to travel around. UNICEF Moldova office premises are adapted for people with disabilities. Additional accommodations for the candidate with disabilities can be arranged upon request. UN Volunteer entitlements and allowances: The purpose of the allowances and entitlements paid to UN Volunteers is to enable UN Volunteers to sustain a secure standard of living at the duty stations in line with United Nations standards without incurring personal costs. The allowances are in no way to be understood as compensation, reward, or salary in exchange for the UN Volunteer’s service. For more information on entitlements please read the Condition of Service (https://explore.unv.org/cos). For information specific to your assignment please see below: Please note that the amounts can vary according to fluctuations of the monthly post adjustment. Monthly Living Allowance (Per month): USD 2,590.11 + Expertise differential: USD 1,036.04 Entry lump sum (one-time payment): USD 4,000 Exit allowance (for each month served, paid on completion of contract): USD 225 Medical and life insurance: Cigna Private Insurance Leave entitlements: Annual leave: 2.5 days accrued per calendar month Leaves indicated below are established for 12 months contracts. For contract periods of less than 12 months, the Leaves will be prorated: - Certified sick leave: 30 days - Uncertified sick leave: 7 days - Learning leave: 10 working days per consecutive 12 months - Maternity Leave: 16 weeks - Paternity Leave: 10 days

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, care protected characteristics. As part of their adherence to the values of UNV, all UN Volunteers commit themselves to combat any form of discrimination, and to promoting respect for human rights and individual dignity, without distinction of a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

Reasonable accommodation

UNICEF offers reasonable accommodation for UN Volunteers with disabilities. This may include, for example, accessible software, travel assistance for missions or personal attendants. We encourage you to disclose your disability during your application in case you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process and afterwards in your assignment.

Note on Covid-19 vaccination requirements

In addition to duty station-specific vaccine requirements, appointments are subject to confirmation of fully-vaccinated status against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) with a World Health Organization (WHO)-endorsed vaccine, which must be met prior to taking up the appointment. It does not apply to UN Volunteers who will work remotely and are not expected to work on or visit UNICEF premises, programme delivery locations or directly interact with communities UNICEF works with, nor to travel to perform functions for UNICEF for the duration of their contracts.

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