The main objective of this individual contract is to support programme management by overseeing the development, implementation, strengthening and evaluation of UNTFHS programmes within a specific portfolio; undertaking knowledge management activities related to UNTFHS programmes; and providing inputs from UNTFHS programmes to support HSU outreach efforts including events, meetings, and HSU communication platforms.
New York
6 months
TERMS OF REFERENCE
1.0 Overall Objective
1.1 The overall objective of the HSU is to integrate the human security approach into the work of the UN system and to strengthen the Organization’s response to multiple and complex challenges. By combining the management of the UN Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) with advocacy and outreach activities, the HSU plays a pivotal role in translating the human security approach into concrete outcomes. Today, the principles of human security are mainstreamed in key global agendas.
1.2 To this end, a primary component of achieving these goals is effective, results-oriented management of UNTFHS programmes and an emphasis on gathering lessons learned and best practices as well as outreach activities and products from UNTFHS programmes. This will contribute to efforts to better position the UNTFHS as a critical component of the UN system vis-à-vis key global agendas and a vehicle to advance the priorities of the international community.
1.3 Accordingly, the main objective of this individual contract is to support programme management by overseeing the development, implementation, strengthening and evaluation of UNTFHS programmes within a specific portfolio; undertaking knowledge management activities related to UNTFHS programmes; and providing inputs from UNTFHS programmes to support HSU outreach efforts including events, meetings, and HSU communication platforms.
2.0 Background
2.1 The UNTFHS was established in March 1999. Through its support to nearly 300 programmes in more than 100 countries, including regional projects, the UNTFHS has played an important role in translating the human security approach into practical actions that have helped strengthen the reform priorities of the Secretary-General and the international community. By combining a set of fundamental principles that characterize the human security approach, programmes to date have drawn on the combined expertise of the United Nations system and have contributed to reducing the likelihoods of conflict, overcoming the obstacles to social, economic and sustainable development, and promoting human rights for all.
2.2 Experiences and lessons learned from programmes supported by the UNTFHS and others led to the adoption of General Assembly resolution 66/290 in September 2012. The resolution provides an outline of what constitutes “human security” and highlights the added value of the approach in “identifying and addressing widespread and cross-cutting challenges to the survival, livelihood and dignity of people.”
2.3 Building on these developments and recent commitments to further extend the global awareness and usage of the human security approach, including its mainstreaming in the work of the United Nations system, the HSU will continue to strengthen programme management and leverage its vast evidence base from UNTFHS programmes toward these commitments in 2023.
3.0 The added value of the human security approach for implementing priority agendas of the Secretary-General and the international community
3.1 A focus on human security stimulates more meaningful partnerships by combining tools and drawing on the expertise and resources across the United Nations system, Governments, the private sector, civil society and local communities to accelerate delivery, limit duplication and maximize the reach of scarce resources.
3.2 Risk, prevention and resilience Prevention is the core objective of human security. It addresses the root causes of insecurities and creates conditions for sustainable development that are inclusive and sustainable. It focuses attention on emerging risks and emphasizes early action to minimize the negative impacts of threats. It strengthens local capacities to build resilience and promotes solutions that enhance social cohesion and advance respect for civic engagement and shared responsibility.
3.3 Localisation and ‘leaving no one behind’ Recognizing that the root causes and manifestations of challenges vary significantly across countries and communities, human security promotes responses that are grounded in local realities. It helps localise international and national agendas to ensure that no one is left behind. This helps ensure that all people benefit from advances in development, peace and security, and human progress.
3.4 From coordination to integration Human security underscores the deeply interlinked causes of crises and insecurities within a given context. As both an analytical lens and a programming framework, the human security approach has shifted the way we conceptualise, plan and implement strategies and programmes, thereby bolstering operational effectiveness and strengthening impact through joint analyses, planning and implementation.
3.5 Promoting multi-stakeholder partnerships With its emphasis on the interconnectedness of risks and vulnerabilities, human security calls for the development of a network of diverse stakeholders, drawing on the expertise and resources of a wide range of actors from across the United Nations system, Governments, private sector, and civil society. This helps identify areas of alignment, seize synergies, and transform responses into collective outcomes with greater impact and sustainability.
4.0 Duties and responsibilities
4.1 Participate in the development, implementation, strengthening and evaluation of programmes funded through the UNTFHS by: (i) strengthening the quality of concept note submissions by applying organizations in line with the UNTFHS Guidelines; (ii) providing technical guidance to applying organizations in the development of programme proposals in line with the workflow and timeline of the UNTFHS review and approval process, the UNTFHS Guidelines and results-based management standards; (iii) reviewing annual and final progress reports; (iv) maintaining the UNTFHS information management database and the knowledge management database, as well as programme-related files; and (v) developing lessons learned and best practices in view of UNTFHS-funded programmes.
4.2 Research, analyze and present information gathered from diverse sources related to the programme and knowledge management of UNTFHS programmes; prepares various written outputs, e.g., draft background papers and talking points for senior management and provide inputs to publications and statements of the HSU.
4.3 Provide input to HSU outreach activities and support in the provision of content for the HSU website and the Human Security Newsletter. Assist in the preparation of ad hoc, annual and quarterly reports.
4.4 Support the substantive and logistical preparation of field missions as well as consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc.
4.5 Perform other duties as required.
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in international development, political science, economics, international relations or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration or related area is required.
Experience working on human security and its application into projects/programmes is
desirable.
Experience in areas of humanitarian affairs and/or development in support of large complex field operations inclusive of peacekeeping operations, special political missions, agencies, funds and programmes, or other similar international organizations is desirable.
Experience in planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes or projects using results-based management or equivalent methodology is desirable.
Experience in knowledge management, capacity building and programme development assistance related to development, peacebuilding or humanitarian programming is desirable.
Experience in outreach, advocacy and communication strategies, including preparing written materials, is desirable.
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French or another UN official language is desirable.
THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.