Governance Specialist

Organizational Context

Cabo Verde operates as the first pilot Joint Office for UN agencies (UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA), a model for harmonizing UN activities in small countries. Following its graduation to a Middle-Income Country, Cabo Verde is implementing a long-term strategy (2025-2034) to enhance its leadership among Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and build resilience to climate change. This involves proactive diplomacy, resource mobilization, and institutional capacity building, with the country set to assume the presidency of AOSIS in 2027.

Job Purpose

This assignment supports the operationalization of Cabo Verde's SIDS Strategy by assisting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its partners. The role focuses on advancing the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), preparing funding proposals for SIDS adaptation and resilience, strengthening knowledge management systems, and coordinating stakeholder engagement for international events and advocacy. The UN Volunteer will play a key role in positioning Cabo Verde as a regional and global leader in sustainable development and climate diplomacy, contributing to its preparation for the AOSIS presidency and the SIDS5 Conference.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will support the Joint Office’s Governance Portfolio initiatives, ensuring alignment with Cabo Verde’s SIDS Strategy, national priorities, and SDGs, particularly in sustainable finance and governance. Key duties include assisting in the design and implementation of public policies for administrative modernization, integrating SIDS-specific priorities. The role involves strengthening institutional and stakeholder capacities for inclusive, transparent governance, embedding SIDS principles of vulnerability reduction and resource mobilization. Furthermore, the volunteer will facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogue and South-South cooperation, leveraging SIDS platforms to exchange best practices and prepare Cabo Verde for its leadership roles in AOSIS and the SIDS5 Conference.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required. This experience should be in areas such as Governance, Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Sustainable Development, Economy, and Finance.

Skills

Required competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Commitment and Motivation, Communication, Ethics and Values, Knowledge Sharing, Leadership, Managing Performance, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Vision, and Working in Teams. Expertise in Administration, Development programmes, and Elections and governance is also necessary.

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