For professionals passionate about advancing gender equality, environmental protection, and community development, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) offers an enriching opportunity to make a meaningful impact as a Project Assistant based in Manila, Philippines. This role is integral to supporting critical initiatives aimed at empowering women environmental human rights defenders and civil society organizations, addressing vital issues such as gender inequality, political participation, and environmental justice.
About the Role
The Project Assistant will be a key member of UNDP’s team dedicated to strengthening the voices and capacities of women environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Philippines. Working under the guidance of the Project Manager and closely collaborating with the Institutions & Partnerships Team, the successful candidate will provide essential administrative, logistical, and financial support to ensure the smooth execution of the project’s activities over a six-month period.
The Context and Importance of the Project
Women’s civil society groups and environmental human rights defenders in the Philippines face numerous challenges that hinder their participation and influence in political and environmental decision-making. These include persistent gender biases, underrepresentation in leadership roles, threats of violence, harassment, and red-tagging, often compounded by limited access to funding, legal aid, and capacity-building opportunities. Societal norms that prioritize domestic responsibilities further restrict their ability to advocate effectively for a just and sustainable green future.
Structural barriers such as weak enforcement of environmental policies and underrepresentation in decision-making processes exacerbate these issues. Recognizing these challenges, the project aims to empower women EHRDs and CSOs through three major outputs:
- Output 1: Enhancing capacities and agency of women-led civil society organizations to overcome barriers to political participation.
- Output 2: Empowering women EHRDs and climate CSOs to build evidence-based advocacy for better protection and access to political spaces.
- Output 3: Strengthening the influence of women-led groups in national, regional, and global political platforms based on pilot country experiences.
Key Responsibilities
The Project Assistant will play a vital role in supporting the effective implementation of these objectives by:
- Assisting in the development and monitoring of annual and quarterly work plans, procurement, recruitment, and travel plans.
- Tracking project progress and reporting regularly to the Project Manager.
- Managing financial and administrative documentation, including budget checks, vouchers, and procurement processes.
- Supporting the organization of workshops, meetings, and field activities, including logistics, documentation, and resource preparation.
- Overseeing supply and assets management, ensuring accurate record-keeping and inventory reporting.
- Contributing to knowledge sharing by supporting training sessions, documenting meetings, and preparing reports.
- Ensuring compliance with UNDP policies and procedures, including operational strategies and internal controls.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
Applicants should possess:
- A minimum of five years’ experience in administrative, financial, procurement, or logistics support, or two years with a bachelor’s degree.
- Completion of secondary education; a university degree in Business Administration, Management, Finance, or related fields is preferred.
- Proficiency in English and Filipino, with excellent communication skills.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and ICT tools.
- Experience supporting gender-related projects or working with UN agencies, NGOs, or government agencies is advantageous.
- Certifications in finance, accounting, or procurement will be considered a plus.
- Willingness to undertake local travel for project monitoring and activities.
What Will the Intern Gain?
This position offers an excellent opportunity to deepen understanding of UNDP’s work in gender equality, environmental justice, and civil society empowerment. The Project Assistant will develop skills in project management, financial oversight, procurement, and logistical coordination within a multicultural and policy-oriented environment. Engaging closely with UNDP’s regional and national stakeholders, the successful candidate will expand their professional network and gain practical experience supporting innovative projects that promote social change.
Application Details
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly, with a deadline set for July 3, 2025. The application must include a comprehensive CV (or P11 form), outlining education, work experience, and references, along with contact details for recent supervisors or peers.
This contract is a unique chance for dedicated individuals to contribute directly to transformative projects that empower women and protect the environment while advancing their careers in international development.
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