What's Happening?
UNICEF's Gender Equality Section is actively seeking a consultant to support the compilation and drafting of critical reports related to gender equality. This role involves contributing to the UN System-Wide Action Plan, which monitors the performance
of UN entities on gender equality, and the Annual Report on the progress of the Gender Equality Action Plan, submitted to the UNICEF Executive Board. Additionally, the consultant will assist with the Global Annual Results Report, primarily intended for donors, partners, and the general public. The position requires excellent writing skills, specific experience in gender-related issues, and the ability to work effectively in an international, multicultural, and interdisciplinary environment. Adherence to 'Do No Harm' principles and ethics is a mandatory requirement, alongside proficiency in MS Windows, MS PowerPoint, and Sharepoint. The consultant will be expected to manage tight deadlines and compile content from various sources into high-quality products with strictly defined formats.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability in global efforts towards gender equality and women's and girls' empowerment. By meticulously tracking and reporting on the performance of UN entities and the progress of UNICEF's Gender Equality Action Plan, the organization ensures that its strategic goals are being met and that resources are effectively utilized. The reports serve as vital tools for informing stakeholders, including donors and the public, about the impact of gender equality programs. The emphasis on 'Do No Harm' principles underscores a commitment to ethical practices and safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly children and women, in all interventions. The consultant's work will directly contribute to shaping future policies and programs aimed at achieving gender equality, influencing resource allocation, and highlighting areas requiring further attention and investment.
What's Next?
The selected consultant will immediately begin work on compiling and drafting the aforementioned key reports. This will involve extensive collaboration with various internal and external stakeholders to gather necessary data and content. The reports will then be submitted to their respective boards and audiences, including the Chief Executives Board for Coordination and the UNICEF Executive Board. The findings and progress outlined in these reports are expected to inform subsequent phases of the Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) 2026-2029, guiding UNICEF's programmatic frameworks and institutional strengthening results. The ongoing evaluation of UN entities' performance on gender equality will likely lead to adjustments in strategies and increased focus on areas identified as needing improvement, ensuring continuous progress towards gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
Beyond the Headlines
The continuous effort to document and report on gender equality initiatives reflects a broader global commitment to addressing systemic inequalities. The detailed reporting requirements highlight the complexity of achieving gender equality, which necessitates a multi-faceted approach encompassing various sectors like health, education, and child protection. The need for consultants with specific experience in gender-related issues, particularly in the context of children's rights and women's empowerment, points to the specialized knowledge required to navigate these challenges effectively. This ongoing documentation also serves as a historical record, allowing for long-term analysis of trends, successes, and persistent obstacles in the pursuit of gender equality. The 'Do No Harm' principle, while seemingly straightforward, carries profound ethical implications, ensuring that interventions designed to help do not inadvertently cause further harm or exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.
