Child Rights and Counter-terrorism Consultant
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of every child's rights not just as a job, but as a calling.
Job Purpose
The consultancy aims to bolster the Child Protection in Humanitarian Action team's engagement with governments on counter-terrorism matters, providing crucial external technical expertise to shape UNICEF's strategies, programs, and advocacy efforts. This role is vital for maintaining consistent dialogue with UN Member States, the UN Secretariat, and other agencies whose policy priorities may inadvertently impact child rights. The consultant will ensure that global policy processes remain grounded in established child rights frameworks, preventing their erosion and upholding the rights of children affected by conflict and counter-terrorism measures.
Responsibilities
Provide expert technical advice and guidance on the intersection of child rights and counterterrorism across UNICEF's programs and policy initiatives. Support UNICEF's engagement with governments, UN entities, and other partners to champion child rights-based approaches in counter-terrorism contexts. Contribute to the development of strategic documents, advocacy messages, policy positions, and technical guidance materials. Assist UNICEF in fulfilling its obligations related to the Third Country Nationals Task Force (TCN TF), particularly concerning children impacted by conflicts in Syria and Iraq. Offer technical support for UNICEF's active participation in UN counterterrorism coordination mechanisms and related global policy discussions. Advise country offices and headquarters teams on complex child rights and counterterrorism matters. Monitor and analyze evolving policy developments, emerging trends, and legal frameworks that affect children associated with armed groups. Ensure that global and national policies align with international child rights standards and protection principles. Contribute to the creation of knowledge products, reports, briefings, and capacity-building activities focused on child rights and counterterrorism.
Work Experience
A minimum of 8 years of experience in child protection, law, humanitarian program management, human rights, or security/counterterrorism. Field operational experience is considered an advantage.
Skills
Ability to work in a matrixed organization, Communication with senior leadership, Coalition leadership, Relationship management, Strong communication skills, Organizational skills, Interpersonal skills, Leadership skills, Flexibility under pressure, Working with complex projects, Independent work, Initiative