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, childbirth is safe, and young people's potential is fulfilled. In Lao PDR, UNFPA's 7th Country Programme focuses on policy advocacy, communication, and partnerships to accelerate progress on maternal health, family planning, and ending gender-based violence. 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 community engagement and advocacy efforts 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 mobilize young people and community members to participate in inclusive activities focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, disability inclusion, and human rights. The aim is to strengthen youth participation, bring campaigns closer to communities, and provide young individuals with practical skills in engagement, facilitation, communication, teamwork, and volunteerism, fostering a new generation's involvement in human rights and sustainable development.
Responsibilities
The Community UN Volunteer will support youth mobilization and community engagement activities under the supervision of the UNFPA Communications and Partnerships team. Key responsibilities include mobilizing diverse groups of young people and community members for campaign activities, reaching out to youth groups, schools, and organizations to encourage participation, and ensuring meaningful engagement of all young people, including those from marginalized backgrounds. Volunteers will help create safe spaces for dialogue and idea exchange. They will assist in organizing and facilitating awareness sessions, dialogues, performances, and interactive learning activities on topics such as sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, GBV prevention, disability inclusion, and human rights. Volunteers will promote basic SRHR awareness, share information on available services, and address misconceptions using approved materials, while strictly adhering to guidelines and not providing medical advice or case management. They will also help ensure activities are accessible and inclusive for persons with disabilities, promote respectful communication, and coordinate closely with local partners. Documentation of activities, participant feedback, and lessons learned is also required.
Work Experience
No prior experience is required. However, 3 months of relevant experience is desirable. This includes strong motivation to work with youth and communities, interest in volunteerism and community development, good interpersonal and communication skills, ability to speak with groups, respect for diversity and human rights, willingness to learn about SRHR, gender equality, and disability inclusion, and teamwork capabilities. Knowledge of the local community or language is an advantage, as is experience in facilitation, peer education, or creative communication methods.
Skills
Commitment to UN and UNFPA values, respect for human rights, dignity, and diversity. Integrity, accountability, and responsible behavior are essential. Strong teamwork, communication, and community orientation skills are required. Willingness to learn, respect for confidentiality, and commitment to volunteerism are also key. Specific expertise areas include communication, advocacy, public information, disability inclusion, social inclusion, and community development.