Programme Support officer

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Established in 1997, UNODC consists of the Drug Programme and the Crime Programme. UNODC has approximately 2,200 staff members worldwide. Its headquarters are in Vienna, and it has 18 field offices as well as liaison offices in New York and Brussels. UNODC relies on voluntary contributions, mainly from govern-ments for 90% of its budget. UNODC is aiming to implement its operational priorities through an integrated approach to counter drugs, crime and terrorism. ROMENA has in place a Regional Programme for the Arab States to Prevent and Combat Crime, Terrorism and Health Threats and to Strengthen Criminal Justice Systems in Line with International Human Rights Standards (2016-2022) to support government actions in re-sponse to the evolving human security threats posed by drugs and crime in the Middle East and Northern Africa region. UNODC’s project portfolio in the region is being implemented un-der this umbrella.

UNODC implements in Palestine project to Enhance Forensic Science Capacity within the State of Palestine. The key work is to establish a robust, evidence-based forensic system that meets international standards, thereby contributing to the effectiveness and integrity of the criminal justice system. The project will focus on further strengthening and expanding the expertise of forensic specialists across all disciplines within the laboratory. It will enhance DNA trace evidence analysis and disaster victim identification capabilities, while also establish firearms and DNA databases and replace the outdated fingerprint database to align with modern technologies. The project seeks to enhance governance structures, improve quality management systems, and strengthen policy-making processes. Additionally, it aims to foster inter-agency cooperation and deepen the understanding of forensic services among key stakeholders through targeted training and capacity-building initiatives. This will ensure that forensic science services in the State of Palestine are comprehensive, reliable, and aligned with international best practices. Ultimately, the project will contribute to the establishment of a criminal justice system that provides fair and impartial justice for all, including men, women, and children, through the provision of reliable forensic evidence and improved institutional capacity to govern forensic services effectively.

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the UNODC Palestine office Officer-in-Charge or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV [ National UN Expert ] will carry out the following tasks: Strategic Planning & Project Oversight - Advise on and develop operational policies and strategies for effective project implementation and management. - Lead the planning, review, and monitoring of annual and quarterly workplans, budgets, and detailed implementation plans in line with approved timelines and resources. - Monitor the operating environment, assess risks (including legal considerations), and ensure timely adjustments to project activities. - Identify implementation challenges, propose corrective actions, and ensure follow-up with relevant stakeholders. Implementation Management & Monitoring - Oversee day-to-day project implementation to ensure activities are executed efficiently and in accordance with plans. - Track progress against outputs, outcomes, and performance indicators, ensuring alignment with project objectives. - Ensure the effective functioning of monitoring, compliance, and internal control systems. - Maintain oversight of project performance, including quality assurance of deliverables and activities. Financial Management & Compliance - Ensure sound financial management of project resources, including budgeting, expenditure tracking, and financial forecasting. - Monitor financial delivery against approved workplans and ensure timely corrective actions where needed. - Ensure compliance with UN/UNODC rules, regulations, and policies, including procurement and administrative procedures. - Establish and maintain internal control systems for financial and operational accountability. Reporting & Documentation - Ensure timely preparation and submission of accurate narrative and financial reports in line with UNODC and donor requirements. - Draft and review analytical reports, briefing notes, and updates for internal and external stakeholders. - Maintain proper documentation of project activities, expenditures, and results. - Support the preparation of project revisions, proposals, and donor reporting as required. Programme Support & Coordination - Ensure alignment of project activities with broader programme objectives and policy frameworks. - Coordinate with project teams, experts, partners, and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation. - Support the development of project proposals, concept notes, workplans, and budgets. - Organize and oversee field missions, expert consultations, and study visits. - Identify needs, draft terms of reference, and facilitate the recruitment and management of experts and consultants. Capacity Building & Knowledge Development - Support the design and delivery of training programmes for relevant stakeholders (e.g., criminal justice practitioners). - Facilitate workshops and knowledge-sharing activities on key thematic areas, including investigative methods, victim-centered approaches, inter-agency coordination, and data collection. - Stay informed of policy and procedural developments and ensure knowledge is shared with project staff. Communication & Stakeholder Engagement - Ensure clear, concise, and effective communication with stakeholders, including preparation of reports and presentations. - Foster strong relationships with internal teams, partners, and donors to support project objectives. Teamwork & Collaboration - Promote a collaborative team environment, valuing diverse inputs and expertise. - Support knowledge sharing, joint problem-solving, and collective accountability for results.