Mission and objectives

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the leading humanitarian organization saving lives and changing lives, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. As the international community has committed to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition by 2030, one in nine people worldwide still do not have enough to eat. Food and food-related assistance lie at the heart of the struggle to break the cycle of hunger and poverty. For its efforts to combat hunger, for its contribution to bettering conditions for peace in conflict-affected areas and for acting as a driving force in efforts to prevent the use of hunger as a weapon of war and conflict, WFP was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020. In 2020, WFP assisted 115.5 million people – the largest number since 2012 – in 84 countries. On any given day, WFP has 5,600 trucks, 30 ships and nearly 100 planes on the move, delivering food and other assistance to those in most need. These numbers lie at the roots of WFP’s unparalleled reputation as an emergency responder, one that gets the job done quickly at scale in the most difficult environments. WFP’s efforts focus on emergency assistance, relief and rehabilitation, development aid and special operations. Two-thirds of our work is in conflict-affected countries where people are three times more likely to be undernourished than those living in countries without conflict.

Context

In 2018, WFP re-established its presence in the Caribbean with an office in Barbados. The WFP Caribbean Multi-Country Office (MCO) supports 22 countries and territories across the English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean. WFP Caribbean’s capacity strengthening programme focuses on vulnerability analysis and mapping; end-to-end supply chain management; shock-responsive social protection; food systems strengthening; and climate risk financing. In times of crisis, WFP works with partners to provide direct assistance when events surpass national and regional capacities by delivering food, cash or voucher assistance, or through emergency logistics or emergency telecommunications service provision. As part of its efforts to ensure that protection and accountability to affected populations are mainstreamed and addressed in programmes, communications, and advocacy, an UNV assignment is being required.

Task Description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the Social Protection, Cash-based Transfers and Emergency Preparedness and Response Lead or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Accountability of Affected Population (AAP) and Gender focal point will: • Support in the integration of protection, accountability to affected populations in the formulation of country strategic plans and annual country reports, as well as other strategic documents, programmes and initiatives. • Provide assistance and guidance in relation to any protection aspects in WFP programme implementation, including exploring how a system of reporting of protection issues within the context of WFP’s programme delivery can be established and sustained, such as community feedback mechanisms. • Ensure protection and gender issues are integrated into evidence generation initiatives and, when funds are available, generate ad-hoc evidence, such as case studies or formative research. • Represent WFP in gender related groups and fora. • Provide technical inputs and review for gender mainstreaming across various programmes. • Coordinate the implementation of corporate policies and processes on gender equality and women’s empowerment. • Enhance gender-transformative approaches and strengthen capacities in Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment across diverse audiences. • Mapping potential entry points at the Satellite Office level. • Contribute to establishing partnerships with regional and national actors to promote the protection and AAP agenda, with a strong focus on local organizations. • Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.

Competencies and values

Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Collaboration • Integrity • Creativity • Communication • Planning and organising • Professionalism • Self-management

Living conditions and remarks

Barbados offers a high standard of living with a tropical climate, friendly people, and a rich cultural heritage. The island has excellent infrastructure, including reliable utilities, modern healthcare facilities, and good transport options. Education and recreational facilities are abundant, catering to diverse needs. While Barbados is generally considered a safe and politically stable country, as with any location, individuals should exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings. Petty crimes such as theft can occur, especially in tourist areas, so safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas after dark is advised. The government and local authorities actively work to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike. Barbados offers a unique combination of relaxed island living and modern conveniences, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as beach outings, water sports, and hiking. While the cost of living can be higher due to the import-dependent economy, the quality of life, community connections, and cultural vibrancy make it a rewarding place to live and work. Contract Conditions: The contract lasts for the period indicated above with possibility of extensions subject to availability of funding, operational necessity, and satisfactory performance. Specific UN Volunteer entitlements, including insurance coverage, Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) and Deployment / Repatriation lump sums, among others, are available at https://app.unv.org/calculator. Note: International Volunteers in Barbados are entitled to an additional Well-being Differential allowance. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements