UNICEF is seeking a qualified Advocacy and Communications Specialist (NO-3) for a fixed-term position based in Baghdad. This role presents an opportunity to contribute to a global mission dedicated to protecting children’s rights and improving their well-being across more than 190 countries and territories.
This vacancy is a re-advertisement, and candidates who applied previously remain under consideration. The application deadline is 14 April 2026.
About UNICEF
UNICEF works globally to:
- Save children’s lives
- Defend their rights
- Help them reach their full potential
The organization fosters a purpose-driven work environment where staff are empowered to grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to communities worldwide.
Role Overview
The Advocacy and Communications Specialist leads the Advocacy and Communications Section at UNICEF Iraq. Reporting to the Country Representative, the role supervises:
- Communication Officer (NO-2)
- Communication Associate (GS-6)
The position focuses on designing and implementing public advocacy and communication strategies that raise awareness and build support for children’s and women’s rights.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Advocacy and Communication
- Develop and implement public advocacy strategies aligned with UNICEF priorities
- Promote awareness and understanding of children’s and women’s rights
- Lead communication initiatives to influence public perception and policy
Media and Networking
- Manage media relations and public communication channels
- Build strategic partnerships with stakeholders and networks
- Support global campaigns and adapt them to the country context
Humanitarian and Development Focus
- Lead advocacy efforts in humanitarian and fragile settings
- Integrate Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) into communication strategies
- Align advocacy work with programme outcomes and national priorities
Monitoring and Team Leadership
- Monitor and evaluate communication and advocacy impact
- Lead, mentor, and supervise the communications team
- Strengthen team capacity through training and development initiatives
Qualifications and Requirements
Education
- Advanced university degree in:
- Communication
- Journalism
- Public Relations
- Marketing
- Social Sciences
Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in advocacy and communications
- Proven experience in team management
- Demonstrated ability to develop innovative communication strategies
Skills
- Media relations and stakeholder engagement
- Strategic thinking and planning
- Strong communication and storytelling abilities
- Experience in international development contexts
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English and Arabic (required)
- Knowledge of another UN language (French, Spanish, Russian, or Chinese) is an advantage
Core Competencies
Candidates are expected to demonstrate UNICEF’s core values (CRITAS):
- Care
- Respect
- Integrity
- Trust
- Accountability
- Sustainability
Key competencies include:
- Building partnerships
- Strategic thinking
- Driving results
- Managing complexity
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Leadership and people management
Working Conditions and Benefits
UNICEF offers a supportive and inclusive work environment with:
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Paid parental leave and flexible work arrangements
- Professional development and learning opportunities
- Inclusive policies supporting diversity and accessibility
The organization ensures reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment and employment process.
Safeguarding and Ethical Standards
UNICEF maintains a zero-tolerance policy for:
- Sexual exploitation and abuse
- Harassment and discrimination
- Abuse of authority
All selected candidates undergo rigorous background and reference checks and must adhere to UNICEF’s safeguarding principles.
Important Notes
- UNICEF does not charge any application or recruitment fees
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Government employees must resign prior to appointment
- Medical clearance and visa requirements must be fulfilled before onboarding
Application Details
- Job Title: Advocacy and Communications Specialist (NO-3)
- Location: Baghdad, Iraq
- Contract Type: Fixed Term
- Job Number: 591564
- Deadline: 14 April 2026
Candidates are encouraged to apply through the official UNICEF careers platform before the deadline.
Career Impact
This role offers professionals the chance to:
- Lead impactful advocacy initiatives in a humanitarian context
- Work with a globally recognized organization
- Contribute to meaningful change in children’s lives
- Build a long-term career in international development
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization seeking for this position. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.
