About CIVICUS
CIVICUS exists to defend people power. As a growing global alliance of over 15,000 members in 189 countries, we work together to monitor violations of basic civic freedoms, call out the perpetrators of violations and strengthen the power of people to organise by supporting a more accountable, effective and innovative civil society. We strive to promote excluded voices, especially from the Global South.
About the Role
The UN Advisor is responsible for representing CIVICUS at the UN Headquarters. In addition to attending key meetings in New York, the Advisor is required to interpret and synthesise information about global trends in relation to civic space and civil society participation in accordance with CIVICUS’ mission, vision, values, strategic directions and stakeholder needs. The role drives the implementation of CIVICUS’ advocacy and convening priorities at the UN Headquarters and is responsible for the formulation of CIVICUS’ external messaging. The UN Advisor is will oversee network engagement activities with CIVICUS’ members and stakeholders in New York.
Key Requirements
- A degree in international relations, law, politics, or relevant social sciences from a reputable university. In cases of exceptional experience, this criterion can be waived.
- Demonstrable experience of engaging with diverse society actors and good networks within civil society.
- English with other languages beneficial.
- At least 7 years’ experience in an international policy making or in an advocacy environment.
- Sound understanding of international relations and policy making.
- Familiarity with the civil society landscape and global politics.
- Working knowledge of UN systems and processes, especially those pertaining to human rights, including committees and special procedures.
- Ability to synthesize and process information related to development and political issues.
- Ability to understand and implement organizational strategies.
- Ability to network at a high level with diplomats and officials from intergovernmental institutions.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. Knowledge of other UN languages would be desirable.
- Sound IT skills, including experience with MS Office and Human Resource Information Systems.
- Commitment to human rights values.
- Interpersonal skills, Presentation skills, Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure, Event organising skills.
Please click here for a full Job Description
How to Apply
The closing deadline for applications is on the 16th July 2025 at 11:59pm SAST.
Interested candidates should click here to apply or go to https://civicus.bamboohr.com/careers
Your application should comprise of:
- A full CV, including educational and professional qualifications, a full employment history showing the more significant positions, responsibilities held, and relevant achievements.
- A covering note of not more than 1 page outlining your motivation for applying for the role.
Short listed candidates will be contacted 2 weeks after the closing date to schedule interviews.
We appreciate and consider each application submitted. However, given the large volume of applications received, we find it impossible to respond to each applicant immediately. You will hear from us within three weeks only if you’re shortlisted for the next steps. We will update all applicants once the position has been filled.
CIVICUS reserves the right to withdraw any of our vacancies at any time.