Peace and Inclusive Development Specialist

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works in 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty while protecting the planet. We help countries develop strong policies, skills, partnerships and institutions so they can sustain their progress. In Angola, the Country Office (CO) is currently implementing its Country Programme (CPD) for the period of 2020 – 2022, which is based on the premise of ‘leaving no one behind’ and ‘reaching those furthest behind first’. The programme includes integrated solutions to complex, interconnected development challenges. These challenges are currently being addressed through three complementary priorities: 1. fostering poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth; 2. increasing resilience to shocks and crises and enhancing management of natural re-sources for conservation and economic development; and 3. strengthening inclusive democracy, human rights, justice and rule of law. In partnership with the Government of Angola, the CO under programme priority 2 (increasing resilience to shocks and crises and enhancing management of natural resources for conservation and economic development) has been mobilizing efforts and resources to address development challenges in the areas of biodiversity and ecosystems, renewable energy, environmental policy and planning, natural resources management and governance, climate change, disaster risk reduction, resilience building, recovery and livelihoods. UNDP operates through offices in Luanda (for national level interventions), with site representations in Benguela, Cuanza Sul and Huíla.

Angola offers a dynamic context for peacebuilding, governance, and inclusive development. Regionally, it plays a growing leadership role in peace and security across Central and Southern Africa through mediation efforts, peacekeeping contributions, and the promotion of a culture of peace. Nationally, Angola has made progress in political stability following the 2017 transition and the 2022 elections. However, voter abstention reached 55%, particularly among youth—who represent nearly 60% of the population—highlighting ongoing challenges in political inclusion. While women’s representation has improved, this has not yet translated into broader socio-economic gains. As the country approaches the 2027 elections, strengthening participation, trust in institutions, and women’s engagement remains critical. These governance challenges intersect with structural issues, including youth unemployment, gender inequality, economic exclusion, and social cohesion pressures. Climate-related shocks, such as droughts and flooding, further exacerbate vulnerabilities and strain local governance systems. In response, UNDP Angola is expanding its work on conflict prevention and peacebuilding through integrated approaches linking governance, gender equality, youth engagement, and climate resilience. The focus is on promoting inclusive participation and strengthening participatory governance processes, particularly for youth and women. This assignment offers an opportunity to contribute to UNDP’s work at the nexus of peacebuilding and development. The UN Volunteer will gain practical experience in programme design, stakeholder engagement, and policy support, working with government, civil society, and UN partners to advance inclusive and resilient development aligned with Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda. This assignment is designed in line with the Republic of Korea’s commitment to supporting young professionals through the UNV programme. The role provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in peacebuilding and inclusive development within a UNDP country office. The UN Volunteer will benefit from structured mentoring, coaching, and exposure to UNDP’s programmatic and operational approaches, while contributing to national development priorities in Angola. The assignment emphasizes learning, knowledge exchange, and professional development in line with UNV’s capacity-building mandate.

Under the direct supervision of the Head of Sustainable Development and Institutional Capacities Unit, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: - Support the design, implementation, and monitoring of programmes on peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and inclusive governance, aligned with UNDP CPD 2024–2028 priorities. - Contribute to the integration of gender equality and Women, Peace and Security (UNSCR 1325) principles across programme activities, including support to national action plans and gender-responsive policies. - Assist in strengthening youth engagement and civic participation, including support to initiatives promoting political inclusion and participation ahead of the 2027 elections. - Provide technical and coordination support for stakeholder engagement, including government institutions, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, and development partners. - Support the development of analytical products, policy briefs, and knowledge products on peacebuilding, governance, and social cohesion. - Contribute to the integration of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate resilience into governance and peacebuilding programming. - Assist in organizing workshops, consultations, and dialogues to promote inclusive decision-making and social cohesion. - Support monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of programme activities, including results tracking and documentation of lessons learned and best practices. - Contribute to resource mobilization efforts, including preparation of concept notes and project proposals. - Promote volunteerism and support UNV visibility initiatives within UNDP Angola. During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his/her direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance