Mission and objectives
The United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC) was established in 1997 and in Vienna, Austria. UNODC is s a world leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. It operates through 54 regional offices, covering more than 150 countries. Its regional office for Western and Central Africa (ROSEN) is located in Dakar, Senegal and has been active in the region for more than 20 years. Currently ROSEN covers 22 countries and has established 13 field offices.
Context
UNODC’s mission is to contribute to global peace and security, human rights and development by making the world safer from drugs, crime, corruption and terrorism. The three pillars of UNODC’s field office work are: • Field-based technical cooperation to enhance Member States’ capacity to counteract illicit drugs, crime and terrorism; • Research and analytical work to increase knowledge and understanding of drugs, crime and terrorism issues, and to expand the evidence base for policy and operational deci-sions; • Normative work to assist States in the ratification and implementation of relevant interna-tional treaties, and the development of domestic legislation on drugs, crime and terrorism. The position is located in the Regional Office for West and Central Africa (ROSEN) of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Dakar, Senegal. The International UN Volunteer will work under the direct supervision of the Deputy Regional Representative in the Coordination Unit.
Task Description
Under the direct supervision of the Deputy Regional Representative, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: Support the implementation of the UNODC Strategic Framework for Engagement with countries in West Africa (SFEWA) (2025-2030): • Liaise with relevant stakeholders to collect, analyze and disseminate data related to the strategic engagement of UNODC in West Africa ; • Prepare various written outputs, e.g. background documentation, talking points, proposals, concept notes, analysis, reports, inputs to publications, etc.; • Participate in the monitoring and evaluation of the UNODC Strategic Framework; • Provide substantive inputs to the annual reports of the SFEWA, including on the Sustaina-ble Development Goals; • Organize, participate in and provide substantive input to donor meetings and to the Steer-ing Committee meetings of the projects and programmes operating under the SFEWA; • As part of a team, promote knowledge management to ensure access to best available ex-pertise and facilitate organizational learning. Support the revision of the UNODC Regional Project for Central Africa and the preparation of the UNODC Strategic Framework for Engagement with countries in Central Africa (SFECA): • Ensure coordination and coherence in the delivery of UNODC’s Programming in Central Af-rica; • Support the preparation of the UNODC Strategic Framework for engagement with countries in Central Africa (2026-2030); • Support the update of the UNODC Regional Project for Central Africa on IPMR; • Provide administrative support to UNODC programme offices in Central Africa; • Develop a mapping of activities carried out in Central Africa • Prepare various written outputs, e.g. background documentation, talking points, proposals, concept notes, analysis, reports, inputs to publications, etc. Furthermore, UN Volunteers are required to: • Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark International Volunteer Day); • Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country; • Reflect on the type and quality of voluntary action that they are undertaking, including partici-pation in ongoing reflection activities; • Contribute articles/write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publica-tions/websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.; • Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly arrived UN Volunteers; • Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible. Results/Expected Outputs: • Written outputs, e.g. background documentation, talking points, proposals, concept notes, analysis, reports, inputs to publications, etc. are produced. • Reports on donor meetings and discussions are elaborated and updated. • Reports on the Regional Programme are produced and published; • Communication strategy is implemented and quality control is ensured • Knowledge management database is developed and updated. Furthermore: • The development of capacity through coaching, mentoring and formal on-the-job training, when working with (including supervising) national staff or (non-) governmental counterparts, includ-ing Implementing Partners (IPs); • Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) perspective is systematically applied, integrated and docu-mented in all activities throughout the assignment • The development of capacity through coaching, mentoring and formal on-the-job training, when working with (including supervising) national staff or (non-) governmental counter-parts, includ-ing Implementing Partners (IPs); • Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) perspective is systematically applied, integrated and docu-mented in all activities throughout the assignment
Competencies and values
Integrity and professionalism: demonstrated expertise in area of specialty and ability to apply good judgment; high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures in a politically sensitive environment, while exercising discretion, impartiality and neutrality; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented. Accountability: mature and responsible; ability to operate in compliance with organizational rules and regulations. Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment. Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities. Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity and gender; Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; ability to maintain composure and remain helpful towards the staff, but objective, without showing personal interest; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups;
Living conditions and remarks
The assignment will take place in the nation’s capital, Dakar, a family duty station (Hardship classification A) with missions to the region. Dakar is a liveable city. The spontaneous reception and hospitality of the Senegalese are among the characteristic features of this West African country. The living conditions in Dakar are good, as well as the access to health services. The yellow fever vaccine is compulsory; vaccination cards should be presented at the entrance. Vaccinations against Meningococcal Meningitis and Hepatitis A and B are also recommended. The basic drugs are available in pharmacies, but it is recommended to bring specific prescription drugs. According to official estimates from ANSD/RGPHAE 2023, the Dakar metropolitan area population reaches over 3,9 million. The total population of Senegal is 18,032,473 inhabitants (ANSD 2023). Senegal is located on UTC/ GMT. Senegal has a warm climate and sunny days throughout the year that make it a comfortable duty station. Daytime temperatures are, on average, around 30°C. The rainy season is in the northern hemisphere’s summer/fall. The currency used in Senegal is called Franc CFA (XOF). On 1st January 2024, the average exchange rate is 1 USD = 602,577 XOF. Many hotels, restaurants and businesses in Senegal accept the leading international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.). It is also possible to withdraw cash from automatic telling machines found in all the major cities. The accommodation facilities are in general good, and the choice is vast. Renting unfurnished and furnished accommodations from 450 to 2000 USD is possible. UN Volunteers can also co-rent and share private concessions, which must comply with Minimum Operating Residential Security Standards (MORSS). Local taxis can easily arrange Transportation in town. A valid passport is required to enter Senegal. ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) nationals are not required to have an entry visa. Citizens of other countries may be required for an entry or long-stay visa. They should contact the closest Senegalese representation. Senegalese Embassies and consulates in various West African countries and other parts of the world issue visas before travel.
Level of Education: Bachelor Degree
Work Hours: 8
Experience in Months: No requirements