Call for Applications: Writer & Copy Editor (UN-Habitat, Nairobi, Kenya) – Apply Before 15 October 2025

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is seeking an experienced Writer and Copy Editor to join its Communications and Media Section in Nairobi, Kenya. This international volunteer assignment is offered under the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) Programme for a period of 12 months, with the possibility of extension. The position aims to support UN-Habitat’s communication objectives by developing compelling written content that highlights the organization’s mission, impact, and initiatives worldwide.

About UN-Habitat

UN-Habitat is the United Nations agency dedicated to promoting socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the ultimate goal of ensuring adequate shelter for all. Mandated by the UN General Assembly, the agency serves as the focal point for human settlement activities across the UN system and collaborates closely with governments, local authorities, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

As the coordinating agency for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 11—“Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable”—UN-Habitat also leads the global monitoring and evaluation of the New Urban Agenda, adopted at the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III) in Quito, Ecuador, in 2016.

Position Context

This assignment is situated within the External Relations, Strategy, Knowledge and Innovation Division (ERSKI), which oversees strategic planning, programmatic direction, resource mobilization, and partnerships. The selected volunteer will work in the Communications and Media Section, responsible for promoting UN-Habitat’s vision, raising awareness of urban challenges, and highlighting the organization’s global work through media engagement, publications, and digital platforms.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Chief of Communication, the Writer and Copy Editor will undertake a variety of editorial and content development tasks to strengthen UN-Habitat’s communications, particularly for major global events such as the World Urban Forum (WUF), World Habitat Day, and World Cities Day. Specific responsibilities include:

• Drafting and editing high-quality written content, including news articles, feature stories, press releases, op-eds, media alerts, speeches, newsletters, and reports.
• Supporting communication campaigns for key corporate events and ensuring consistent messaging across platforms.
• Implementing editorial policies and style guidelines that align with United Nations communication standards.
• Conducting in-depth editing, including rewriting and restructuring texts for clarity, logical flow, and adherence to UN standards.
• Advising internal teams on editorial best practices to improve the quality and coherence of communication materials.
• Managing editorial workflows to ensure deadlines and quality benchmarks are met.
• Collaborating closely with programme teams to ensure accuracy and authenticity in all communication materials.
• Serving as a report writer during high-level UN meetings in Nairobi or other locations, including the World Urban Forum.
• Ensuring all written outputs are original, appropriately cited, and free from plagiarism.
• Participating in UNV activities that promote volunteerism and contributing articles to UNV communication platforms.

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in communications, journalism, media, visual storytelling, arts, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, with demonstrated expertise in creative writing, storytelling, and editorial work. Experience managing multiple communication projects in complex environments—preferably within the United Nations system or a development agency—is considered an asset.

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to write and edit content tailored for diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with UN-Habitat’s thematic focus and understanding of urban development issues.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
• Experience working in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.

Fluency in English is required.

Eligibility and Terms

Applicants must be nationals of countries other than Kenya and aged between 18 and 80 years. This is an onsite, full-time position based in Nairobi, with an expected start date of 10 November 2025. The initial contract is for 12 months, renewable based on performance and operational needs.

Living Conditions

Nairobi is a modern, well-connected city that hosts major UN offices, including UN-Habitat and UNEP. It offers a wide range of services such as healthcare, banking, telecommunications, and education. The climate is generally mild, and transport links are efficient, with both Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport providing local and international connections. Security conditions are stable, and UN staff are provided with regular safety briefings.

Inclusivity and Volunteerism

The United Nations Volunteers programme embraces diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified professionals regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. All UN Volunteers are expected to uphold the values of volunteerism, integrity, and respect for human rights.

Important Information

• The United Nations does not charge any application or recruitment fees.
• Selected candidates may be subject to vaccination requirements in accordance with host entity policies.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply before 15 October 2025 through the UNV portal.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.