National Coordination Officer (Environmental Crimes) – UNODC Mozambique: Role, Responsibilities, and Career Prospects
The National Coordination Officer position at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Maputo, Mozambique focuses on tackling crimes that affect the environment—including wildlife crimes, illegal logging, fishing, mining, and waste management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Project Coordination
- Organize and support the implementation of the GUARD Wildlife project, which aims to combat organized wildlife crime.
- Provide technical assistance in tackling environmental crimes.
- Work closely with government authorities to identify urgent needs and ensure their involvement.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
- Partner with UN agencies, international organizations, and NGOs to promote cooperation.
- Represent UNODC in technical working groups, inter-agency task forces, and relevant forums.
- Prepare and present reports to headquarters, regional offices, government, and donors.
- Administrative & Logistical Support
- Organize meetings, workshops, and conferences, including agenda planning and participant selection.
- Manage resources related to environmental crime projects.
Impact of the Role
Your work will enhance Mozambique’s capacity to address environmental crimes and improve UNODC’s effectiveness in the country. It also contributes to regional and international efforts in combating transnational environmental crimes.
Required Qualifications & Skills
Education:
- Master’s degree in law, international relations, economics, environmental sciences, or related fields.
- A bachelor’s degree + 2 years of experience OR a law enforcement academy degree + 4 years of experience can be considered in place of a master’s degree.
Experience:
- 5+ years (with a master’s degree) or 7+ years (with a bachelor’s degree) in law enforcement, criminal justice, or environmental protection.
- Experience in project management is desirable.
- Previous work within the Mozambique government is an advantage.
- Experience collaborating with international organizations and NGOs is required.
- Familiarity with ERP systems and strong computer skills (MS Office) are a plus.
Languages:
- Fluency in English and Portuguese (written & spoken) is required.
- Knowledge of other UN languages (e.g., French) is an asset.
Why This Job Matters
Environmental crimes are a major issue in Mozambique and Southern Africa, impacting biodiversity, local economies, and security. This role directly supports law enforcement and justice systems in fighting illegal activities, making a real difference in conservation and governance.
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Here’s a detailed breakdown of the National Coordination Officer position at UNODC Mozambique with an in-depth analysis of its role, responsibilities, impact, qualifications, and career prospects.
National Coordination Officer – UNODC Mozambique
Introduction
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) plays a critical role in combating international crime, drug trafficking, terrorism, and corruption. Among its core areas of work is addressing crimes that affect the environment, which include wildlife crimes, illegal logging, fishing, mining, and waste management violations. The National Coordination Officer will be stationed at the UNODC Programme Office in Mozambique (POMOZ), operating under the Regional Office for Southern Africa (ROSAF).
This position is designed to enhance UNODC’s efforts in Mozambique and across the region by coordinating technical assistance, law enforcement cooperation, and multi-stakeholder engagement. The job focuses on implementing crime prevention projects, particularly the Global United Action to Reduce and Dismantle Organized Wildlife Crime (GUARD Wildlife) initiative.
The officer will serve as a liaison between government agencies, law enforcement authorities, international organizations, and non-governmental entities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling crimes that damage the environment. The work involves both policy development and on-the-ground capacity building, making it a highly dynamic role that contributes to global sustainability and security efforts.
Key Responsibilities
The National Coordination Officer is responsible for overseeing the successful implementation of UNODC’s initiatives on environmental crime. The role entails project management, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and technical assistance. Below are the core duties of the position:
1. Project Coordination and Implementation
- Oversee and coordinate all logistical and operational aspects of UNODC’s projects related to environmental crimes.
- Ensure the successful implementation of the GUARD Wildlife project, which seeks to dismantle organized crime networks involved in wildlife trafficking.
- Provide technical assistance to national institutions involved in the fight against environmental crime, including law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and regulatory bodies.
- Identify urgent needs and challenges within Mozambique’s criminal justice system regarding environmental crime and develop strategic solutions.
- Conduct regular assessments to measure the impact of UNODC’s programs and recommend necessary improvements.
- Monitor the financial, operational, and policy-related aspects of UNODC’s environmental crime programs in Mozambique.
2. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Building
- Establish and strengthen partnerships with government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, private sector actors, and civil society organizations to enhance collaborative efforts.
- Act as UNODC’s representative in technical working groups, inter-agency task forces, and multilateral meetings focused on environmental crime.
- Organize and participate in high-level meetings, policy dialogues, and training workshops aimed at building capacity among law enforcement and judicial officials.
- Work closely with UN agencies, donor organizations, and regional institutions to mobilize resources and secure funding for environmental crime projects.
- Facilitate communication between law enforcement agencies, environmental ministries, and conservation organizations to ensure a unified response to environmental crime.
3. Capacity Building and Technical Support
- Design and implement training programs for law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judicial authorities on combating environmental crimes.
- Provide expert guidance on investigative techniques, prosecution strategies, and judicial processes related to wildlife crime, illegal logging, and other environmental offenses.
- Develop training manuals, legal guidelines, and operational frameworks to enhance national capabilities in detecting, preventing, and prosecuting environmental crimes.
- Conduct field assessments and research studies to analyze trends, patterns, and emerging threats in environmental crime.
- Advise policymakers on legal and regulatory reforms needed to strengthen Mozambique’s anti-crime and environmental protection framework.
4. Policy Development and Advocacy
- Assist the Mozambican government in developing and implementing environmental crime prevention policies in alignment with UNODC’s global standards.
- Advocate for stronger legal frameworks and stricter enforcement mechanisms to combat crimes that affect the environment.
- Support the harmonization of Mozambique’s laws with regional and international treaties, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC).
- Conduct awareness campaigns and public outreach initiatives to educate communities and stakeholders about the dangers of environmental crime.
5. Reporting and Documentation
- Prepare comprehensive reports detailing UNODC’s progress in environmental crime prevention, including project evaluations, impact assessments, and financial reports.
- Provide regular updates to UNODC headquarters, donors, and regional partners on project implementation.
- Maintain databases and records of environmental crime cases, judicial proceedings, and enforcement actions.
Impact of the Role
The National Coordination Officer will play a pivotal role in strengthening Mozambique’s capacity to combat environmental crimes, ensuring that law enforcement agencies, judicial authorities, and government institutions have the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to address these challenges.
By effectively coordinating UNODC’s projects and engaging with multiple stakeholders, the officer will contribute to:
✔ Reducing illegal wildlife trade and organized environmental crime networks.
✔ Strengthening national and regional collaboration in law enforcement efforts.
✔ Enhancing the capacity of Mozambique’s judicial system to prosecute environmental crimes.
✔ Promoting sustainable resource management and environmental conservation.
✔ Improving policy frameworks to address transnational environmental crimes.
Required Qualifications and Skills
Education:
- Master’s degree in law, international relations, economics, environmental sciences, or related fields.
- A bachelor’s degree plus 2 additional years of experience OR a law enforcement academy degree plus 4 additional years of experience may be accepted instead of a master’s degree.
Professional Experience:
- 5+ years of experience (with a master’s degree) OR 7+ years (with a bachelor’s degree) in law enforcement, criminal justice, environmental protection, or a related field.
- Experience in project management, policy development, and legal analysis is highly desirable.
- Prior work with Mozambique’s government agencies, law enforcement bodies, or international organizations is an advantage.
- Strong familiarity with UN systems, protocols, and administrative procedures is a plus.
- Experience with ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite is required.
Language Requirements:
- Fluency in English and Portuguese (both written and spoken) is mandatory.
- Knowledge of French or other UN official languages is an asset.
Career Prospects and Growth Opportunities
This position provides a unique opportunity for career advancement within the UN system, particularly in the fields of crime prevention, environmental governance, and international law enforcement cooperation. Potential career paths include:
➡ Senior Environmental Crime Advisor at UNODC or other international organizations.
➡ Policy Analyst or Legal Expert in environmental law enforcement.
➡ Programme Manager or Director overseeing larger environmental crime projects.
➡ Senior roles in government agencies, law enforcement units, or conservation NGOs.
Conclusion
The National Coordination Officer at UNODC Mozambique is a high-impact role that blends law enforcement, policy development, capacity building, and international cooperation. It is designed for professionals passionate about protecting the environment, strengthening the rule of law, and combating organized crime.
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A Comprehensive Guide to the National Coordination Officer Position at UNODC Mozambique
I. Introduction to UNODC and Its Mission in Mozambique
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a specialized agency that works globally to combat organized crime, corruption, terrorism, drug trafficking, and crimes affecting the environment. It provides technical assistance, policy guidance, and operational support to governments to strengthen their criminal justice systems.
In Mozambique, UNODC has been actively working to support law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and policymakers in tackling various forms of crime. The country faces significant challenges related to wildlife poaching, illegal logging, illicit mining, human trafficking, and drug smuggling, many of which are linked to transnational organized crime networks.
As part of its efforts to address crimes that affect the environment, UNODC has launched the Global United Action to Reduce and Dismantle Organized Wildlife Crime (GUARD Wildlife) project. The National Coordination Officer will play a key role in ensuring the successful implementation of this project and other initiatives aimed at strengthening Mozambique’s environmental law enforcement capacity.
Table of Contents
II. Key Areas of Responsibility in Detail
The National Coordination Officer will take on multiple responsibilities, ensuring that UNODC’s programs are effectively executed in Mozambique and aligned with regional and global environmental crime prevention strategies.
1. Crime Prevention and Law Enforcement Coordination
One of the most crucial aspects of this role is working with Mozambique’s law enforcement agencies, border control units, customs officials, and environmental protection agencies to combat crimes affecting the environment.
- Enhancing coordination among agencies: The officer will facilitate cooperation between different government institutions such as the Ministry of Environment, the Police, the Judiciary, and the Customs Department to improve intelligence-sharing, investigations, and enforcement operations.
- Supporting the development of crime prevention policies: The officer will provide technical advice to policymakers on strengthening Mozambique’s legal and regulatory framework for fighting environmental crime.
- Capacity-building for law enforcement officers: Conducting specialized training sessions on detecting, investigating, and prosecuting environmental crimes, particularly related to wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, and illicit fishing activities.
- Providing operational support for investigations: Helping law enforcement agencies improve their case management, evidence collection, forensic analysis, and intelligence-gathering techniques.
2. Implementing the GUARD Wildlife Project and Other Environmental Crime Initiatives
The GUARD Wildlife Project is one of UNODC’s flagship initiatives aimed at dismantling organized crime networks involved in wildlife trafficking. The National Coordination Officer will oversee its execution in Mozambique by:
- Organizing training workshops for law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges to improve the country’s ability to prosecute wildlife traffickers effectively.
- Engaging local communities to raise awareness about the impact of wildlife crime and promoting sustainable alternatives to illegal hunting and logging.
- Coordinating regional and international cooperation with law enforcement agencies in neighboring countries and international partners to combat cross-border environmental crime.
- Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies and making necessary adjustments to improve impact.
3. Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Policy Development
To effectively combat environmental crime, Mozambique needs robust laws, policies, and enforcement mechanisms. The National Coordination Officer will assist the government in strengthening legal frameworks by:
- Conducting legal analyses and policy reviews to identify gaps in Mozambique’s laws related to environmental protection and crime prevention.
- Helping draft new legislation, regulations, and enforcement guidelines to improve Mozambique’s legal response to environmental crimes.
- Aligning Mozambique’s laws with international treaties and agreements, such as:
- The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
- The United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC).
- The African Union Strategy on Combatting Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources.
- Advocating for harsher penalties and stronger enforcement mechanisms against criminal networks involved in illegal logging, mining, and wildlife trafficking.
4. Multi-Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy
The fight against environmental crime requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, UN organizations, NGOs, and private sector actors. The National Coordination Officer will:
- Represent UNODC in national, regional, and international forums related to environmental crime prevention.
- Engage with civil society organizations to promote community-based conservation initiatives and environmental protection programs.
- Develop partnerships with international donors to secure funding for crime prevention initiatives.
- Work closely with media organizations and advocacy groups to raise public awareness about environmental crime.
5. Data Collection, Reporting, and Performance Monitoring
To measure the effectiveness of UNODC’s environmental crime initiatives, the officer will be responsible for:
- Developing and maintaining databases on wildlife crime, illegal logging, and other environmental offenses in Mozambique.
- Preparing detailed progress reports for UNODC headquarters, donors, and government agencies.
- Conducting impact assessments to evaluate the success of UNODC’s projects and identifying areas for improvement.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in project implementation.
III. Required Skills, Competencies, and Qualifications
To be successful in this role, the National Coordination Officer should possess a strong background in law enforcement, criminal justice, or environmental policy.
1. Academic Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Law, International Relations, Criminal Justice, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree plus 2 additional years of experience OR a law enforcement academy degree plus 4 additional years of experience can be considered.
2. Professional Experience
- 5+ years of experience (with a master’s degree) OR 7+ years (with a bachelor’s degree) in law enforcement, environmental crime prevention, criminal justice, or conservation policy.
- Experience in project management, policy development, and legal analysis is highly desirable.
- Previous work with government agencies, international organizations, or civil society groups involved in crime prevention.
- Knowledge of Mozambique’s legal and judicial system is an advantage.
- Familiarity with ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite is required.
3. Language Skills
- Fluency in English and Portuguese (both written and spoken) is mandatory.
- Knowledge of French or other UN official languages is a plus.
4. Core Competencieshttp://National Coordination Officer – UNODC Mozambique
- Professionalism: Strong understanding of environmental crime and law enforcement principles.
- Accountability: Ability to manage projects efficiently and deliver results.
- Planning & Organizing: Ability to coordinate multiple activities and stakeholders.
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Experience working with governments, NGOs, and international agencies.
IV. Career Growth and Future Prospects@vacancyspaces.com
This position provides significant career advancement opportunities within the United Nations system, government agencies, and international organizations. Possible career paths include:
✅ Senior Environmental Crime Advisor at UNODC or another international body.
✅ Policy Analyst or Legal Expert specializing in environmental crime prevention.
✅ Regional Coordinator for Environmental Law Enforcement.
✅ Director of a Conservation NGO or Anti-Trafficking Organization.
V. Conclusion
The National Coordination Officer at UNODC Mozambique is a high-impact position at the intersection of law enforcement, environmental conservation, and international development. This role provides an exciting opportunity for professionals dedicated to fighting organized crime and protecting natural resources.
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