Community Engagement for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
Organizational Context
UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, is dedicated to a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. In Lao PDR, UNFPA's 7th Country Programme focuses on policy advocacy, strategic partnerships, and innovative initiatives to achieve these transformative results. The agency collaborates with the government, civil society, and communities to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
Job Purpose
This role supports UNFPA's efforts to strengthen youth participation and community engagement in Lao PDR, particularly around key campaigns like the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and Human Rights Day. The Community UN Volunteer will work with young people and local partners to organize inclusive activities focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, disability inclusion, and human rights. The assignment aims to bring these campaigns closer to communities, foster dialogue, and provide young people with practical skills in engagement, facilitation, communication, and teamwork, contributing to UNFPA's 50-year partnership with Lao PDR.
Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the UNFPA Communications and Partnerships team and in coordination with programme teams and local partners, the Community UN Volunteer will mobilize youth and community members for campaign activities. This includes reaching out to various groups, encouraging diverse participation (including young women, persons with disabilities, and ethnic communities), and helping create safe spaces for dialogue. Volunteers will support the organization and facilitation of awareness sessions, dialogues, performances, and interactive learning activities on topics such as sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, disability inclusion, and human rights. They will promote basic awareness of SRHR, share information on available services, and address misconceptions using approved materials, while strictly adhering to guidelines and not providing medical advice or case management. Volunteers will also help ensure activities are accessible and inclusive for persons with disabilities, coordinate with local partners, and maintain simple records of activities, collect feedback, and document key issues and lessons learned for reporting.
Work Experience
No prior experience is required. However, a minimum of 3 months of relevant experience is desirable. This includes strong motivation to work with young people and communities, interest in volunteerism and community development, good interpersonal and communication skills, ability to speak with groups, respect for diversity and human rights, and willingness to learn about SRHR, gender equality, and disability inclusion. Experience in facilitation, peer education, youth engagement, or creative communication is an asset.
Skills
Commitment to UN and UNFPA values, respect for human rights, dignity, and diversity. Key competencies include integrity, responsible behavior, teamwork, communication, community orientation, accountability, and a willingness to learn. Specific skills include advocacy, public information, understanding of disability inclusion and social inclusion aspects, and community development. Knowledge of the local language is a strong advantage.