Strategic Communications Specialist at UNDP Ukraine: A Critical Role in Crisis Communication, Governance, and Countering Disinformation

April 3, 2025

14 minutes read

The Strategic Communications Specialist position with UNDP in Kyiv is a full-time, seven-month contract (with a possibility of extension) focused on supporting the Ukrainian government in strengthening strategic communications, countering disinformation, and enhancing public engagement.

Key Responsibilities:http://UNDP Strategic Communications Specialist Job Posting

Develop and Implement Communication Strategies:
- Support the government’s strategic communications efforts in response to the ongoing war.
- Ensure effective communication and crisis response coordination between central and regional authorities.
- Manage media relations, press releases, and promotional materials.
Strengthen Counter-Disinformation Efforts:
- Assist in building government capabilities to combat misinformation and hybrid threats.
- Support external communications to maintain transparency and public trust.
Project and Advocacy Communication:
- Develop communication materials for donor reports and project updates.
- Organize press conferences, media tours, and public engagement campaigns.
- Ensure UNDP branding and messaging align with global and regional standards.
Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building:
- Train government personnel and UNDP project teams on effective communication practices.
- Manage multimedia content creation (photography, videos, blogs, social media).

Requirements:@vacancyspaces.com

Education:
- Master’s degree (preferred) in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, or a related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with additional experience may be considered.
Experience:
- 5 years (Master’s) or 7 years (Bachelor’s) of experience in public relations, advocacy, or strategic communications.
- Experience with international organizations is a plus.
- Strong skills in media relations, social media management, and public engagement.
Languages:
- Fluency in English and Ukrainian is required.

Why This Role Matters:

Given Ukraine’s current challenges due to the war, effective communication is crucial for maintaining public trust, countering misinformation, and ensuring transparent governance. This role directly supports the government’s ability to engage with the public and international partners in a clear and effective way.

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Strategic Communications Specialist – UNDP, Kyiv, Ukraine

This position is a critical role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), focusing on strategic communications, countering disinformation, and supporting the Ukrainian government in maintaining transparency and effective public engagement. The selected candidate will play a key role in strengthening the government’s ability to communicate effectively during the ongoing crisis caused by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Context and Importance of the Role

Since February 24, 2022, Ukraine has faced severe humanitarian, economic, and infrastructural challenges due to the war. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced, and the country has suffered significant destruction. The Government of Ukraine has been actively engaged in managing the crisis, ensuring public service continuity, and mobilizing national and international efforts for recovery.

In response to the growing need for effective strategic communication, the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine has been restructured into the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications. This change reflects the government’s priority in countering misinformation, fostering public resilience, and managing crisis communications effectively.

UNDP, through its Effective Multi-Level Governance projects, has been supporting the government in these efforts. The Strategic Communications Specialist will be an essential part of this initiative, working closely with government agencies, media, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders to enhance communication strategies and ensure accurate, transparent, and timely information dissemination.

Key Responsibilities of the Role

1. Development and Implementation of Communication Strategies

Assist in designing and implementing strategic communication plans for government institutions, ensuring alignment with national priorities and UNDP’s objectives.
Strengthen crisis communication and emergency response coordination between central government, regional administrations, and local authorities.
Oversee the planning and execution of communication campaigns related to governance, recovery, and public resilience.
Ensure civic education and community awareness initiatives are effectively integrated into public communication efforts.

2. Counter-Disinformation and Public Awareness Initiatives

Support government efforts to combat misinformation and hybrid threats by enhancing institutional communication capabilities.
Develop and implement media monitoring and analysis to track disinformation trends and provide strategic responses.
Contribute to building public trust in government institutions by ensuring accurate and timely information dissemination.

3. Media Relations and Public Engagement

Act as a liaison between UNDP and national/international media outlets, ensuring positive and effective media coverage.
Develop press releases, announcements, speeches, and reports to keep stakeholders informed about government and UNDP initiatives.
Organize press conferences, media tours, roundtable discussions, and briefings to enhance government and public engagement.
Support the creation of newsletters, blogs, photography, video content, and social media strategies to boost digital outreach.

4. Coordination with Stakeholders and Project Management Support

Work closely with government ministries, international organizations, civil society, donors, and media networks to ensure coordinated communication efforts.
Ensure project communication activities meet UNDP and donor requirements, contributing to transparent and efficient governance.
Provide technical guidance to consultants, agencies, and communication teams working under UNDP projects.
Monitor and evaluate the impact of communication campaigns, making data-driven adjustments to optimize effectiveness.

Provide training and capacity-building workshops for government officials, journalists, and civil society organizations on strategic communication, media relations, and crisis response.
Identify and document best practices and lessons learned from communication initiatives to improve future strategies.
Facilitate knowledge sharing through UNDP’s corporate platforms, communities of practice, and policy networks.

Required Qualifications and Competencies

Education:

Master’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, or related fields.
A Bachelor’s Degree in these fields may be considered if the candidate has at least seven years of experience instead of five.

Work Experience:

Minimum 5 years (with a Master’s) or 7 years (with a Bachelor’s) of relevant professional experience in public relations, media, advocacy, and communications at the national or international level.
Proven experience in handling communication during crises, governance, international development, or public policy.
Experience in international organizations, government agencies, or UN projects is highly desirable.
Strong background in developing press materials, managing social media, and executing public information campaigns.
Familiarity with counter-disinformation strategies and digital communication trends.

Skills & Competencies:

✔ Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills in both English and Ukrainian.
✔ Strong ability to analyze and respond to media trends and public sentiment.
✔ Proficiency in content creation (including blogs, social media, videos, photography, and newsletters).
✔ Ability to work under pressure in crisis situations, ensuring timely and effective communication.
✔ Knowledge of international governance, policy-making, and sustainable development issues.
✔ Experience in event organization, public engagement, and training workshops.

Why This Role is Important?

This position is crucial for Ukraine’s recovery and stabilization efforts amid the ongoing conflict. Effective communication helps:
✅ Counter misinformation and propaganda, strengthening national resilience.
✅ Build public trust and transparency in government institutions.
✅ Enhance Ukraine’s international image and attract global support.
✅ Ensure communities receive timely and accurate information to navigate the crisis.
✅ Promote good governance and civic participation in the reconstruction process.

By joining this role, you will be at the forefront of Ukraine’s strategic communications efforts, helping shape the narrative for recovery, stabilization, and international cooperation.

Application and Selection Process

The deadline to apply is April 5, 2025, at 05:59 AM (Kyiv Time).
The selection process includes a rigorous reference and background check.
The position follows a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10) contract, meaning it is open only to Ukrainian nationals.

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That’s a lot of detail, but I can certainly provide a comprehensive and detailed explanation of the Strategic Communications Specialist role with UNDP in Kyiv. I’ll cover everything, including the job context, responsibilities, required qualifications, key competencies, expected impact, and why this role is crucial in Ukraine’s current situation.

Strategic Communications Specialist – UNDP, Kyiv, Ukraine

Overview of the Position

The Strategic Communications Specialist position is a full-time role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) based in Kyiv, Ukraine. The position is part of UNDP’s broader mission to support good governance, democratic institutions, and crisis response in Ukraine, particularly in light of the ongoing war with Russia that has severely impacted the country’s infrastructure, economy, and social fabric.

The role is part of UNDP’s Effective Multi-Level Governance projects, aimed at strengthening government institutions, enhancing public service delivery, and improving coordination between different levels of governance (national, regional, and local).

With the Ukrainian Ministry of Culture and Information Policy recently restructured into the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications, the government is prioritizing countering misinformation, strengthening strategic communications, and enhancing public engagement. The Strategic Communications Specialist will work closely with government institutions, international organizations, donors, and media outlets to ensure accurate, transparent, and effective communication about government policies, crisis response efforts, and Ukraine’s ongoing recovery initiatives.

The selected candidate will support the government’s response to misinformation, crisis communication, and public perception management, ensuring that the right messaging reaches both domestic and international audiences.

Context: Why This Role Matters

Ukraine has been in a state of war since February 24, 2022, when Russia launched a full-scale invasion. The war has resulted in:

✅ Massive displacement of civilians – millions have been forced to flee their homes, either within Ukraine or abroad.
✅ Severe destruction of infrastructure, including homes, roads, schools, and hospitals.
✅ Economic devastation, requiring significant international assistance for recovery.
✅ A heightened information war – Russia’s propaganda and disinformation campaigns have intensified, targeting both Ukrainian and international audiences to undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and global support.

In this context, effective strategic communication is a critical weapon in countering false narratives, maintaining public morale, ensuring transparent governance, and mobilizing international support.

The Ukrainian government has been actively working to counter disinformation and enhance public trust by strengthening its communication efforts. However, the complexity of the crisis requires high-level expertise and coordination, which is where the Strategic Communications Specialist will play a key role.

This position will contribute directly to Ukraine’s governance and resilience-building efforts by ensuring:

📢 Accurate and timely information reaches the public.
🛡️ Misinformation and propaganda are identified and countered effectively.
🌎 Ukraine’s narrative is communicated effectively to the international community.
🤝 Trust between the government and citizens remains strong.
🚀 Public engagement and civic participation are encouraged.

Key Responsibilities of the Role

The Strategic Communications Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of communications, media relations, and public outreach activities. These responsibilities fall into several main categories:

1. Developing and Implementing Strategic Communication Plans

Design and execute comprehensive communication strategies that align with national priorities and UNDP’s objectives.
Develop messaging frameworks to ensure consistent, clear, and effective communication of government policies and initiatives.
Manage crisis communication to ensure timely and transparent responses to major developments related to the war and governance.
Strengthen communication coordination mechanisms between national and local authorities.
Promote civic education and community awareness campaigns to improve public understanding of governance processes.

2. Countering Disinformation and Hybrid Threats

Support government institutions in developing tools and mechanisms to counter fake news, propaganda, and disinformation campaigns.
Conduct media monitoring and analysis to identify and respond to emerging threats in real-time.
Develop fact-checking and public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about misinformation tactics.
Engage with social media platforms, journalists, and civil society organizations to ensure the public receives accurate and verified information.

3. Media Relations and Public Engagement

Act as the primary liaison between UNDP and media outlets, including print, digital, and broadcast media.
Draft press releases, official statements, reports, and talking points for high-level government officials.
Organize press conferences, media tours, roundtable discussions, and interviews with government representatives and UNDP officials.
Oversee the creation of newsletters, blogs, photography, video content, and social media campaigns to expand digital outreach.
Ensure government messaging is aligned with international human rights and democratic governance standards.

4. Coordination with Stakeholders and Donor Communication

Work closely with government ministries, UN agencies, donor organizations, and civil society groups to align communication strategies.
Prepare high-quality donor reports and ensure communication materials meet UNDP and donor requirements.
Coordinate project-related communication efforts, ensuring alignment with UNDP’s global priorities.
Provide technical guidance to consultants, agencies, and project teams on strategic communication best practices.

Organize training workshops for government officials, journalists, and civil society leaders on effective communication and media management.
Provide guidance on social media strategy, digital advocacy, and public relations.
Develop and document best practices and lessons learned to continuously improve Ukraine’s strategic communication capabilities.
Promote the integration of gender-sensitive and conflict-sensitive communication approaches in all media strategies.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Educational Requirements

✔ Master’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field.
✔ Candidates with a Bachelor’s Degree in these fields must have at least seven years of relevant experience.

Work Experience Requirements

✔ 5+ years of experience (Master’s) or 7+ years of experience (Bachelor’s) in strategic communication, media relations, public relations, or journalism.
✔ Experience working with government institutions, international organizations, or development projects is highly desirable.
✔ Proven track record in countering disinformation, public diplomacy, and crisis communication.
✔ Strong experience in social media management, press relations, and content creation.
✔ Knowledge of Ukrainian and international media landscapes.

Language Requirements

✔ Fluency in English and Ukrainian is mandatory.

Expected Impact of This Role

The Strategic Communications Specialist will play a vital role in Ukraine’s war-time governance and post-war recovery, ensuring that the right messages reach the right audiences.

🏛️ Strengthening Ukraine’s governance through transparency and public engagement.
📢 Ensuring the public receives accurate, timely, and clear information.
🛡️ Countering misinformation and disinformation campaigns that threaten Ukraine’s sovereignty.
🌎 Enhancing Ukraine’s image and securing international support for its recovery.
📊 Empowering government institutions with modern communication tools and strategies.

Conclusion

This is more than just a job—it is an opportunity to be on the front lines of Ukraine’s battle for truth, democracy, and sovereignty. The Strategic Communications Specialist will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s narrative, strengthening its institutional resilience, and ensuring that both Ukrainians and the world stay informed about the realities on the ground.

Would you like assistance with your resume, cover letter, or interview preparation for this role? I’d be happy to help! 😊

Absolutely! Let’s dive even deeper into the Strategic Communications Specialist role with UNDP in Kyiv, Ukraine. Below, I will expand on:

The Strategic Importance of Communication During War
UNDP’s Role in Ukraine’s Crisis and Recovery Efforts
Detailed Breakdown of Key Responsibilities
Impact of This Role on Ukraine’s Governance and Stability
Career Benefits & Growth Opportunities
Challenges and How to Overcome Them in This Role
Why This Position is a Unique Opportunity
Application Tips and How to Stand Out

1. The Strategic Importance of Communication During War

In times of armed conflict, political instability, and economic crises, strategic communication is as vital as military operations and humanitarian aid. It helps in:

📢 Shaping public perception and morale – Clear, truthful, and timely information helps maintain public trust in the government and ensures citizens stay informed about emergency protocols, government actions, and available support programs.

🛡️ Countering misinformation and propaganda – Russia has been engaged in a highly sophisticated disinformation campaign aimed at weakening Ukraine’s resilience. This role will help combat fake news, manipulated narratives, and false reports spread by hostile actors.

🌎 Mobilizing international support – Governments, donors, and NGOs rely on accurate information from trusted sources before making decisions about aid, funding, and diplomatic support. This position ensures that Ukraine’s reality is communicated effectively to the world.

📖 Educating citizens about governance and their rights – Many people may not fully understand how governments function during wartime, which can lead to frustration and unrest. Strategic communication can enhance civic participation and democracy-building efforts.

2. UNDP’s Role in Ukraine’s Crisis and Recovery Efforts

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been a key player in Ukraine’s recovery, resilience, and governance efforts, particularly after the full-scale invasion by Russia in 2022. Some of its core focus areas include:

🏛️ Governance & Institutional Strengthening – UNDP works closely with Ukrainian government institutions to improve governance, service delivery, and democratic processes.

🛠️ Crisis Response & Reconstruction – This includes humanitarian aid coordination, infrastructure rebuilding, and economic recovery programs.

🔍 Countering Disinformation & Strengthening Media – UNDP supports independent journalism, fact-checking initiatives, and training programs to help government institutions and media organizations combat misinformation.

📈 Economic Recovery & Livelihood Support – Efforts to rebuild the economy, create jobs, and support small businesses are central to UNDP’s mission in Ukraine.

💡 Sustainable Development & Innovation – Long-term sustainability projects, green energy initiatives, and digital transformation are also part of UNDP’s broader strategy for Ukraine.

The Strategic Communications Specialist will directly contribute to these missions by improving public awareness, outreach, and advocacy efforts.

3. Detailed Breakdown of Key Responsibilities

A. Strategic Communication & Messaging Development

Develop crisis communication strategies to ensure timely and transparent government messaging.
Align communication efforts with Ukraine’s national policies, UNDP’s mission, and international best practices.
Manage public information campaigns on governance, emergency response, civic engagement, and human rights.

B. Media Relations & Public Engagement

Maintain strong relationships with national and international media outlets.
Organize press conferences, roundtable discussions, and media briefings.
Prepare high-quality media materials, including press releases, fact sheets, and reports.
Develop engaging digital content (social media campaigns, blog posts, newsletters, photography, video production).

C. Countering Disinformation & Strengthening Information Resilience

Monitor media trends, misinformation patterns, and propaganda campaigns.
Work with fact-checking organizations and cybersecurity experts to counteract disinformation threats.
Develop public awareness initiatives to educate citizens on how to recognize and combat fake news.

D. Coordination with Government & International Partners

Serve as a liaison between UNDP, Ukrainian government agencies, and international donors.
Ensure consistent messaging across multiple stakeholders.
Collaborate with civil society organizations, NGOs, and media watchdogs to strengthen Ukraine’s information ecosystem.

E. Capacity Building & Training

Train government officials, journalists, and civil society actors on strategic communication, media literacy, and crisis messaging.
Provide guidance on social media management and digital advocacy techniques.
Promote gender-sensitive and conflict-sensitive communication approaches.

4. Impact of This Role on Ukraine’s Governance and Stability

By effectively carrying out these responsibilities, the Strategic Communications Specialist will:

📢 Enhance public trust in government institutions.
📡 Ensure accurate, reliable information reaches both national and global audiences.
🛡️ Protect Ukraine’s information space from manipulation and hostile propaganda.
💬 Improve citizen engagement and participation in governance.
🌍 Strengthen Ukraine’s relationships with international partners, ensuring sustained support.

5. Career Benefits & Growth Opportunities

This role offers immense career development opportunities, including:

🎯 High-level experience in international development and governance.
🌍 Exposure to global media networks and policymakers.
🚀 Opportunities for promotion within UN agencies or diplomatic missions.
📈 Development of expertise in crisis communication, strategic messaging, and digital media management.

6. Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While this job is highly impactful, it also presents major challenges:

⚡ High-pressure environment: Communication during war and crises can be demanding and time-sensitive.
✅ Solution: Strong time management and prioritization skills are essential.

🛡️ Constant disinformation threats: Russia’s propaganda machine is aggressive and sophisticated.
✅ Solution: Collaborating with fact-checking groups, cybersecurity experts, and independent media will help counter false narratives.

🤝 Coordination with multiple stakeholders: The job involves working with government agencies, UN bodies, NGOs, and the media.
✅ Solution: Clear communication, stakeholder mapping, and collaboration tools will ensure smooth coordination.

7. Why This Position is a Unique Opportunity

✅ Be at the center of Ukraine’s fight against disinformation.
✅ Work with high-level government and UN officials on strategic projects.
✅ Directly contribute to democracy-building and good governance in Ukraine.
✅ Play a crucial role in shaping Ukraine’s narrative on the global stage.
✅ Gain unparalleled experience in international diplomacy, crisis communication, and media strategy.

8. Application Tips and How to Stand Out

To increase your chances of landing this role, consider the following:

💡 Highlight Your Experience in Public Relations, Media, or Crisis Communication – Showcase your past roles in journalism, communications, or strategic messaging.

🛡️ Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Misinformation & Hybrid Warfare – If you have experience in fact-checking, cybersecurity, or counter-propaganda strategies, make sure to emphasize that in your application.

📢 Showcase Your Digital Media & Social Media Management Skills – UNDP is looking for someone who can effectively engage with audiences through multiple platforms.

🌎 Fluency in English & Ukrainian is Key – If you have multilingual skills, highlight how they can help in engaging diverse audiences.

📜 Strong Writing & Content Development Skills – Attach samples of your previous media work, press releases, reports, or advocacy campaigns.

Final Thoughts

This is one of the most important strategic communication roles available in Ukraine today. It offers a chance to shape history, influence public perception, and contribute to the nation’s resilience and recovery.

Would you like help crafting a strong resume and cover letter for this role? Or do you need mock interview practice? I’d love to help you get this job! 🚀😊

April 3, 2025

14 minutes read