Youth Engagement Analyst: Driving Meaningful Change for the Next Generation in the Philippines

The Youth Engagement Analyst position at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) in Manila, Philippines is a full-time role under a one-year contract. The job focuses on youth empowerment and engagement, particularly in relation to governance, innovation, and social development.

Key Aspects of the Job:
1. Purpose of the Role
- The Philippines has a large youth population (31.4 million people aged 15-30), but youth development is a challenge, as shown by the country’s decline in the Global Youth Development Index (from 79th place in 2016 to 108th in 2023).
- Many young people fall into the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) category, which means they are struggling to find jobs or access education.
- This role aims to empower and engage young people, helping them participate in economic, social, and political activities that contribute to sustainable development.
2. Main Responsibilities
The Youth Engagement Analyst will be responsible for:
- Project Management: Leading and overseeing youth-related projects, particularly Youth Co:Lab, an initiative to support young innovators and entrepreneurs.
- Strategy Development: Designing and implementing the UNDP Philippines Youth Engagement Strategy.
- Events Coordination: Organizing workshops, dialogues, and innovation labs for youth.
- Partnership Management: Working with government agencies, NGOs, private sector partners (such as Citi Foundation), and UN bodies to support youth programs.
- Communications: Ensuring youth-related programs receive media coverage and are effectively communicated through social media, reports, and presentations.
- Regional Coordination: Supporting the Bangkok Regional Hub with updates on youth programs in the Philippines.
3. Required Skills & Qualifications
- Education: A Master’s degree in Public Policy, International Studies, Economics, Management, Development Studies, Entrepreneurship, or a related field is preferred.
- A Bachelor’s degree is acceptable if the candidate has at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
- Experience:
- Project management skills (designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating development programs).
- Experience in youth engagement or community development projects.
- Strong skills in communications, digital tools, and social media.
- Preferably has experience working in an NGO, international organization, or government agency.
- Languages: Fluent in English and Filipino.
4. Why This Role is Important
This job plays a crucial role in shaping youth policies and initiatives in the Philippines. By working at UNDP, the Youth Engagement Analyst helps create opportunities for young Filipinos—whether through education, employment, social innovation, or civic participation.
5. Career Growth Opportunities
Working in this role can open doors for careers in:
- United Nations agencies (e.g., UNICEF, UN Women, UNESCO).
- International NGOs (e.g., Save the Children, World Vision, Oxfam).
- Government agencies focused on youth and development.
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) roles in private companies.
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Sure! Here’s an in-depth analysis of the Youth Engagement Analyst position at UNDP Philippines, covering the job responsibilities, required skills, career growth opportunities, challenges, and impact on youth development in the Philippines.
Youth Engagement Analyst at UNDP Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide
I. Introduction to the Role
The Youth Engagement Analyst position at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) Philippines is a full-time role based in Manila. It is designed to enhance youth engagement in governance, innovation, and sustainable development efforts across the country.
The role is pivotal in advancing youth-focused policies, programs, and partnerships while managing initiatives such as Youth Co:Lab, a social innovation initiative co-led by UNDP and Citi Foundation. The selected candidate will design, implement, and oversee projects that promote youth participation in civic, economic, and political spheres.
This position is part of UNDP’s regional efforts in Asia and the Pacific, specifically aligning with the Youth Empowerment Project in Asia and the Pacific (YEP-AP). The goal of this project is to empower young people by providing access to resources, training, and opportunities for civic engagement.
Table of Contents
II. Background & Context
1. Youth in the Philippines: Demographics & Challenges
- As per the 2020 Census, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported a population of 109 million, with 31.4 million youth aged 15-30 (28.8% of the total population).
- The 2023 Global Youth Development Index (YDI) ranked the Philippines 108th out of 183 countries, a decline from 79th place in 2016.
- The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) found that 3.88 million Filipino youth belong to the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) category. Among them:
- 24% are female,
- 19% live in rural areas,
- 23% come from low-income families.
2. UNDP’s Role in Youth Engagement
- UNDP’s mission in the Philippines focuses on strengthening governance, climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, resilience, and peacebuilding.
- Recognizing youth as key stakeholders, UNDP supports initiatives that empower young Filipinos through education, employment, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.
3. Key UNDP Initiatives for Youth
The Youth Engagement Analyst will play a critical role in implementing three major initiatives:
A. Youth Co:Lab
- A flagship program co-led by UNDP and Citi Foundation.
- Focuses on youth-led social innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Provides training, mentorship, and funding for young innovators addressing national priorities.
B. Youth Empowerment Project in Asia and the Pacific (YEP-AP)
- Uses a portfolio approach to address youth participation in politics, social movements, and the economy.
- Promotes inclusivity, especially for women, marginalized youth, and vulnerable groups.
C. United Nations Youth Thematic Group (UNYTG)
- A collaborative platform for UN agencies working on youth-related initiatives.
- Facilitates knowledge sharing, policy advocacy, and joint programs.
III. Responsibilities of the Youth Engagement Analyst
The Youth Engagement Analyst will work under a matrix reporting structure, reporting to:
- Institutions and Partnerships Programme Team Leader (UNDP Philippines)
- Youth Team at the Bangkok Regional Hub (BRH)
1. National-Level Responsibilities
A. Youth Engagement Strategy & Implementation
- Develop and oversee the UNDP Philippines Youth Engagement Strategy.
- Lead the implementation of youth-related programs, ensuring alignment with UNDP’s goals.
- Track youth participation trends and integrate insights into policy recommendations.
B. Project Management & Implementation
- Manage the day-to-day operations of Youth Co:Lab Philippines.
- Monitor and evaluate project outcomes using data-driven approaches.
- Prepare technical and financial reports for UNDP Philippines and Bangkok Regional Hub.
C. Events Coordination & Management
- Organize national dialogues, workshops, and innovation labs.
- Collaborate with partners (e.g., Citi Foundation, NGOs, government agencies) for event planning.
- Provide logistical and administrative support for major youth-related initiatives.
D. Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Establish partnerships with local and international organizations to support youth initiatives.
- Work with government agencies, private sector, and academic institutions to co-develop programs.
- Draft and finalize Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs), Responsible Party Agreements (RPAs), and legal instruments.
E. Communications & Knowledge Management
- Develop communications plans for youth projects, including social media strategies.
- Create reports, presentations, and advocacy materials to highlight youth success stories.
- Maintain a database of youth-related initiatives and stakeholders.
2. Regional-Level Responsibilities
- Act as the primary UNDP Philippines focal point for youth engagement at the Bangkok Regional Hub.
- Contribute to the YEP-AP regional program by sharing best practices and impact reports.
- Support the regional coordination of youth initiatives with other Asia-Pacific countries.

IV. Required Skills & Qualifications
1. Educational Background
- Master’s degree in Public Policy, International Studies, Economics, Management, Development Studies, Entrepreneurship, or related fields.
- A Bachelor’s degree with at least 2 years of work experience will be considered in place of a Master’s degree.
2. Professional Experience
- For Master’s degree holders: No prior experience required.
- For Bachelor’s degree holders: At least 2 years of relevant experience in project management, youth development, or community engagement.
3. Desired Competencies
A. Core Competencies
- Innovation & Creativity: Ability to develop new ideas and solutions.
- Agility & Adaptability: Comfortable working in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
- Collaboration & Partnership-Building: Skilled in working with government, NGOs, and private sector partners.
B. Technical & Cross-Functional Skills
- Project Management: Experience in planning, monitoring, and evaluating programs.
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation: Background in startup ecosystems, business incubation, or social enterprises is a plus.
- Communication & Digital Skills: Ability to manage social media campaigns, digital tools, and multimedia storytelling.
4. Language Requirements
- Fluency in English and Filipino (both written and spoken).
V. Career Growth & Future Opportunities
1. Career Pathways
This role provides excellent career development opportunities in:
- United Nations Agencies (UNICEF, UN Women, UNESCO, etc.)
- International NGOs (World Vision, Save the Children, Oxfam, etc.)
- Government Agencies (National Youth Commission, DSWD, DOLE, etc.)
- Social Enterprises & CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) roles
2. Skill Development & Learning
- Gain hands-on experience in youth policy formulation, program implementation, and impact assessment.
- Network with international development professionals.
- Enhance leadership, project management, and advocacy skills.
VI. Conclusion
The Youth Engagement Analyst role at UNDP Philippines is a high-impact position that directly contributes to empowering Filipino youth. It is an excellent opportunity for professionals passionate about youth development, governance, innovation, and social entrepreneurship.
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VII. The Impact of the Youth Engagement Analyst Role
1. Why This Role Matters
The Youth Engagement Analyst plays a key role in addressing the challenges faced by young people in the Philippines, where youth unemployment, lack of educational opportunities, and limited access to economic resources are prevalent. This position directly influences the future of millions of young Filipinos by helping design programs, policies, and initiatives that empower youth in different spheres of life.
Key reasons why this role is crucial:
- Bridging the Gap in Youth Development: With 3.88 million youth classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), the role helps identify strategies to integrate these youth into productive activities.
- Encouraging Youth Political Participation: The Philippines has a large youth population, yet participation in governance and policymaking remains low. This role facilitates opportunities for young people to be active contributors to national development.
- Fostering Innovation & Entrepreneurship: By managing initiatives such as Youth Co:Lab, the role supports young entrepreneurs in creating businesses that address social challenges.
- Ensuring Inclusivity: The UNDP Youth Empowerment Strategy promotes equal opportunities for marginalized groups, including young women, rural youth, and indigenous communities.
2. Expected Impact of the Youth Engagement Analyst
This role has the potential to bring tangible, long-term benefits to the country’s youth sector, including:
- Stronger Youth Policies: The development of a comprehensive youth engagement strategy will enhance government programs and create more youth-friendly policies.
- More Opportunities for Young Entrepreneurs: Through grants, mentorship, and training programs, the role will help young innovators launch and sustain successful ventures.
- Greater Youth Participation in Decision-Making: By integrating youth into national discussions, policy formulation, and civic engagement programs, the role strengthens youth leadership.
- Better Collaboration Among Stakeholders: Stronger partnerships with government, private sector, and civil society organizations will create a more cohesive ecosystem for youth development.
VIII. Major Challenges in Youth Engagement
While this role offers immense opportunities for impact, it also comes with challenges that require strategic problem-solving.
1. Low Youth Awareness and Participation
- Many young Filipinos lack awareness of the programs and opportunities available to them.
- Youth engagement initiatives often struggle with low turnout and limited reach.
- The role will require creative approaches to engage youth through social media, community outreach, and education campaigns.
2. Limited Resources for Youth Initiatives
- Funding and logistical support for youth programs are often inconsistent.
- The Youth Engagement Analyst must explore funding opportunities and develop partnerships to sustain these programs.
3. Socioeconomic Barriers
- Youth from marginalized and rural areas face higher barriers to participation.
- Many young people must prioritize economic survival over civic engagement, making it difficult to sustain involvement in youth programs.
- The role must advocate for policies that support inclusive youth development.
4. Resistance to Youth-Led Initiatives
- Some government institutions and organizations may hesitate to include youth in decision-making processes.
- Overcoming these barriers requires strong advocacy efforts to highlight the benefits of youth participation.
IX. Strategies for Effective Youth Engagement
To ensure the success of youth programs, the Youth Engagement Analyst must adopt a multi-pronged approach to reach and empower young people effectively.
1. Leveraging Digital Platforms for Engagement
- Utilize social media (Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, Instagram) to promote programs.
- Develop online training sessions and webinars to reach youth in remote areas.
- Create interactive platforms for youth participation, such as discussion forums and mobile apps.
2. Strengthening Community-Based Youth Networks
- Work with local government units (LGUs), NGOs, and schools to establish youth hubs.
- Organize community dialogues to understand the needs and challenges faced by youth at the grassroots level.
- Partner with religious organizations and community leaders to gain trust and improve outreach.
3. Developing Leadership & Capacity-Building Programs
- Train young people in leadership, project management, and advocacy skills.
- Establish mentorship programs where experienced professionals guide young leaders.
- Offer internships and volunteer opportunities to help youth gain practical experience.
4. Encouraging Private Sector Involvement
- Partner with companies to fund youth initiatives and provide employment opportunities.
- Advocate for corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs focused on youth development.
- Create incubation programs to support young entrepreneurs.
5. Policy Advocacy for Youth Inclusion
- Work with government agencies to ensure youth perspectives are included in policymaking.
- Advocate for the institutionalization of youth representation in decision-making bodies.
- Push for budget allocations to sustain youth programs at national and local levels.

X. How This Role Fits into UNDP’s Global Strategy
The Youth Engagement Analyst role aligns with several key global frameworks, including:
1. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The role contributes to the following SDGs:
- SDG 4: Quality Education – By promoting access to education and skills training.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – By supporting youth employment and entrepreneurship.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By ensuring marginalized youth have equal opportunities.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – By fostering youth participation in governance.
2. UNDP’s Youth Strategy 2022-2025
- Focuses on youth empowerment, civic engagement, and innovation.
- Recognizes youth as partners in peacebuilding, climate action, and digital transformation.
XI. Career Growth and Opportunities for the Youth Engagement Analyst
This role serves as an excellent stepping stone for a career in international development, youth policy, and governance.
1. Potential Career Paths
After working as a Youth Engagement Analyst, professionals can pursue roles such as:
- Youth Policy Advisor (Government or International Organizations)
- Program Manager (NGOs, UN agencies, or development organizations)
- Social Innovation Consultant (Startups, think tanks, or international institutions)
- Advocacy and Policy Researcher (Academic institutions or policy think tanks)
2. Opportunities for International Exposure
- Engage in regional and global youth forums.
- Collaborate with UNDP’s international teams in Asia-Pacific.
- Access training and leadership development programs within the UN system.
XII. How to Prepare for the Role
For those interested in applying for this position, here are some tips:
1. Strengthen Your Qualifications
- Pursue further studies in Public Policy, Development Studies, or International Relations.
- Gain experience in project management, youth development, or community work.
2. Develop Relevant Skills
- Enhance digital skills, particularly in social media, communication, and online engagement.
- Learn fundraising and grant-writing techniques to secure resources for youth programs.
- Improve public speaking and advocacy skills to engage stakeholders effectively.
3. Gain Practical Experiencehttp://National Coordination Officer – UNODC Mozambique
- Volunteer with youth organizations, NGOs, or government agencies.
- Participate in international youth leadership programs.
- Build a strong network with professionals in the development sector.@vacancyspaces.com
XIII. Final Thoughts
The Youth Engagement Analyst role is an exciting and meaningful opportunity to make a direct impact on youth development in the Philippines. By engaging with young leaders, policymakers, and communities, this position has the potential to drive real change and create a more inclusive future for Filipino youth.
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National Coordination Officer (Environmental Crimes) – UNODC Mozambique
Comprehensive Role Overview, Responsibilities, and Career Prospects
I. Introduction: The Global and Local Importance of Environmental Crime Prevention
1. The Growing Threat of Environmental Crimes
Environmental crimes have become a major challenge worldwide, affecting biodiversity, climate change, economic stability, and public health. They include a wide range of illegal activities such as:
- Wildlife trafficking – The illegal trade of endangered species, including ivory smuggling, poaching of rhinos and elephants, and illegal pet trade.
- Illegal logging – Deforestation for timber and charcoal production, leading to loss of biodiversity and climate change effects.
- Illegal fishing – Overfishing, destructive fishing practices, and violations of maritime laws that deplete fish stocks.
- Illicit mining – Unregulated extraction of gold, diamonds, and other minerals, often leading to human rights abuses and environmental destruction.
- Waste trafficking – The illegal disposal of toxic waste, electronic waste (e-waste), and hazardous materials.
These crimes are often linked to organized criminal networks that exploit weak law enforcement and legal loopholes. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) plays a key role in assisting governments in detecting, preventing, and prosecuting these activities.
2. Mozambique’s Role in Combating Environmental Crime
Mozambique is one of Africa’s biodiversity hotspots, home to unique wildlife and vast natural resources. However, the country faces major challenges related to illegal logging, poaching, and cross-border trafficking of wildlife products. Criminal networks exploit national parks and marine ecosystems, smuggling ivory, pangolin scales, and illegally harvested timber to international markets.
To address these challenges, UNODC has established the Global United Action to Reduce and Dismantle Organized Wildlife Crime (GUARD Wildlife) project, which aims to:
- Strengthen law enforcement and investigative capacity.
- Improve regional and international cooperation to track and dismantle trafficking networks.
- Support policy and legislative reforms.
- Raise public awareness and community engagement in conservation efforts.
The National Coordination Officer will be at the forefront of these efforts, working closely with government agencies, international partners, and law enforcement to drive impactful change.
II. Key Responsibilities of the National Coordination Officer
1. Strengthening Law Enforcement and Legal Frameworks
The officer will work with Mozambique’s criminal justice system and environmental protection agencies to enhance the country’s capacity to combat environmental crimes.
- Support inter-agency collaboration among the Police, Judiciary, Customs, and Environmental Ministries.
- Enhance training programs for law enforcement officials on:
- Investigation techniques
- Intelligence gathering
- Forensic analysis
- Prosecution strategies
- Advocate for legal reforms to close loopholes in environmental crime laws and strengthen penalties.
- Coordinate task forces focusing on cross-border trafficking and transnational organized crime.
2. Implementation of UNODC’s GUARD Wildlife Project
A core part of the job is managing the GUARD Wildlife project, which involves:
- Planning and executing capacity-building programs for law enforcement, customs officers, and prosecutors.
- Working with communities to raise awareness about the impact of wildlife crime and provide economic alternatives to illegal activities.
- Building partnerships with international organizations like Interpol, CITES, and regional law enforcement bodies.
- Providing technical support for investigations, surveillance operations, and judicial proceedings.
3. Engaging with Government and International Stakeholders
The officer will serve as a liaison between UNODC, the Mozambican government, and international partners, ensuring smooth coordination of initiatives.
- Represent UNODC in national and regional forums on environmental crime prevention.
- Facilitate cooperation between Mozambique and neighboring countries in intelligence-sharing and joint operations.
- Support diplomatic efforts to align Mozambique’s environmental crime laws with international conventions.
4. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
To measure the success of UNODC’s programs, the officer will be responsible for:
- Developing monitoring frameworks to track the progress of crime prevention initiatives.
- Collecting and analyzing data on environmental crime trends in Mozambique.
- Preparing detailed reports for UNODC headquarters, donors, and government partners.
- Ensuring financial transparency and accountability in project implementation.
III. Required Qualifications and Competencies
To be successful in this role, candidates must meet the following qualifications:
1. Educational Requirements
- Master’s degree in Law, Criminal Justice, Environmental Science, International Relations, or a related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of experience OR a law enforcement academy degree with four additional years of experience may be accepted.
2. Professional Experience
- 5+ years of experience (with a Master’s) or 7+ years (with a Bachelor’s) in:
- Law enforcement (policing, intelligence, investigations)
- Criminal justice (prosecution, judiciary, legal reforms)
- Environmental protection and policy enforcement
- Experience working with government institutions, NGOs, or international organizations is desirable.
- Previous work in project management, policy development, or legal analysis is an advantage.
3. Technical Skills and Competencies
- Strong knowledge of law enforcement procedures, investigative techniques, and prosecution processes.
- Familiarity with environmental laws, treaties, and conservation policies.
- Excellent research, reporting, and analytical skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
4. Language Requirements
- Fluency in English and Portuguese (both written and spoken) is mandatory.
- Knowledge of French or other UN languages is an advantage.
5. Core Competencies
- Professionalism – Deep understanding of crime prevention strategies and legal frameworks.
- Accountability – Ability to manage resources and projects efficiently.
- Planning & Organizing – Strong project management and coordination skills.
- Stakeholder Engagement – Ability to work with diverse partners, from government agencies to local communities.
IV. Career Growth and Future Opportunities
This role offers significant career growth potential within the United Nations system, international NGOs, law enforcement, and environmental organizations. Career progression opportunities include:
✅ Senior Policy Advisor on Environmental Crime – Work with governments and international bodies on legal reforms.
✅ Regional Coordinator for Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention – Lead multi-country operations in Africa.
✅ Program Manager for Environmental Justice Initiatives – Oversee international projects focused on conservation law.
✅ Director of an Anti-Trafficking or Conservation Organization – Drive large-scale advocacy and enforcement efforts.
With the increasing global focus on climate change and environmental protection, professionals in this field will be in high demand for years to come.
V. Conclusion: A High-Impact Role in Environmental Protection and Justice
The National Coordination Officer position at UNODC Mozambique is an exciting and impactful opportunity for professionals passionate about law enforcement, criminal justice, and environmental conservation. By taking on this role, you will contribute to protecting Mozambique’s biodiversity, strengthening legal frameworks, and dismantling organized crime networks.
Are you ready to make a difference?
If you’re interested in applying, you can access the official job posting here:
🔗 National Coordination Officer – UNODC Mozambique
Need help with your resume, cover letter, or interview preparation? Let me know, and I’d be happy to assist! 😊