Background

In an attempt to address the political crisis in South Sudan, H.E. President Salva Kiir called a National Dialogue on December 14, 2016. The President noted that the National Dialogue is both a forum and process through which the people of South Sudan can come together to redefine the basis of their unity as it relates to nationhood, and sense of belonging.

UNDP is providing support to enhance inclusivity, wider participation, transparency and credibility of the dialogue process. Support is provided to facilitate wider and effective stakeholder engagement and participation in the dialogue process, especially those who may potentially be excluded from the dialogue. As part of this support, UNDP seeks the expertise of an independent editor to document and edit reports and knowledge products emerging from various consultative processes to ensure and protect their integrity. It expected that the required expertise will help the dialogue process in ensuring that the voices, opinion and perspective shared during consultations are not left out of the documents that will shape the agenda and outcome of the National Dialogue process

Duties and Responsibilities

The consultant will work collaboratively with the Leadership of the Steering Committee of the National Dialogue, the Communications and Information Unit of the Secretariat of the National Dialogue as well as under the guidance of UNDP Chief Technical Advisor on Peacebuilding; to edit and revise a range of high-quality and politically sensitive content, including reports of local level consultations, press releases, articles, information sheets, brochures, newsletters, reports, briefing notes and key messages on the National Dialogue process.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies

  • Demonstrates integrity by modelling the UN’s values and ethical standards;
  • Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP;
  • Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
  • Treats all people fairly;
  • Excellent analytical and organizational skills.

Functional Competencies:

  • In-depth knowledge of conflict issues and South Sudan context;
  • Ability to communicate sensitively across different focal points;
  • Demonstrates excellent oral and written communication skills;
  • Knowledge and understanding of UN system and familiarity with inter-governmental processes.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

  • Master degree in journalism, communications, international affairs, political/social sciences or other relevant areas of expertise or Bachelor degree with 3 additional years of relevant work experience.

Experience:

  • At least five years of relevant professional experience in copy and content writing, research, editing, creative writing, journalism or related fields;
  • Experience of working with the UN System or other international organizations in similar assignments;
  • Solid understanding of peacebuilding issues and good knowledge of South Sudan context;

Language Requirements:

  • Fluency in English (written and oral) is required.