What's Happening?
UNICEF Ukraine is actively seeking a Social & Behavior Change (SBC) Officer for a temporary position in Kyiv, Ukraine, to support evidence-based initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children and families. This role is crucial for the implementation
of UNICEF's Ukraine country program for 2025-2029, which focuses on key leadership areas such as Better Start, Better Learning and Skills, Better Care, and Better WASH. The incumbent will be responsible for designing, managing, monitoring, and evaluating inclusive and innovative SBC strategies. This includes generating and utilizing research and data to inform SBC programs, planning and implementing activities with strong community engagement, advocating for SBC, mobilizing resources, and building partnerships. The position also requires significant contributions to cross-cutting themes like the inclusion of children and persons with disabilities, and mental health and psychosocial support, especially in emergency response contexts.
Why It's Important?
This position is vital for addressing the complex challenges faced by children and families in Ukraine, particularly given the ongoing humanitarian situation. By focusing on social and behavior change, UNICEF aims to create sustainable improvements in child welfare, health, education, and protection. The role's emphasis on evidence-based strategies ensures that interventions are effective and tailored to the specific needs of the population, including those in affected areas and internally displaced families. The integration of disability inclusion and mental health support across all program areas highlights a comprehensive approach to child development and well-being. The successful implementation of these SBC initiatives will contribute to strengthening community resilience, enhancing the capacity of national authorities, and ultimately helping children and families recover and thrive amidst adversity.
What's Next?
The selected SBC Officer will play a key role in operationalizing UNICEF's country program by coordinating with sectoral and cross-sectoral specialists, providing technical support to community-level programs, and contributing to emergency response efforts. The focus will be on developing and delivering SBC interventions related to Early Childhood Development and Care, Parenting, Family Friendly Policies and Practices, and access to services for children with disabilities. The role also involves promoting continuous learning and capacity building for UNICEF staff and partners to strengthen and scale up SBC initiatives in both development and humanitarian contexts. The deadline for applications is September 29, 2026, indicating an urgent need to fill this critical position to advance UNICEF's mission in Ukraine.
Beyond the Headlines
The recruitment of an SBC Officer underscores the long-term commitment of international organizations like UNICEF to not only provide immediate humanitarian aid but also to invest in sustainable social development in conflict-affected regions. This role highlights the growing recognition that behavioral insights and community engagement are essential for effective humanitarian and development interventions. The emphasis on mental health and psychosocial support reflects a deeper understanding of the invisible wounds of conflict and the need for holistic care for children and families. Furthermore, the focus on disability inclusion ensures that vulnerable populations are not left behind in recovery and development efforts. This initiative could serve as a model for other humanitarian contexts, demonstrating how targeted social and behavior change strategies can foster resilience and promote long-term well-being in challenging environments.
