About the opportunity
The Programme Specialist (Communication and Information) position is situated within the Communication and Information Sector at the UNESCO Regional Office in Apia. Under the overall authority of the Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information and the functional authority of the Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Apia, the incumbent will develop and implement projects, provide policy advice, conduct research, and lead networking, partnership development, and resource mobilization efforts. The role requires advancing freedom of expression, media development, and digital inclusion within the framework of UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Salary and benefits
- Approximate annual starting salary of 97,942 US dollars
- 30 days of annual leave
- Family allowance
- Medical insurance coverage
- Pension plan participation
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in communication and information, media studies, ICTs, knowledge society issues, international relations, social sciences, political sciences, or related areas
- Minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in communication and information, promoting free and independent media, or building inclusive knowledge societies
- Preferably two years of professional experience acquired at the international level
- Experience in designing and implementing programmes and projects in communication and information or related fields
- Excellent knowledge of English
Required documents
- Online application completed via the UNESCO Careers website
- Scanned copies of required degrees, diplomas, or certificates from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), required in advance if retained for an interview
When to apply
- Application deadline is 22/11/2026 at midnight Paris time
How to apply
- Visit the UNESCO Careers website
- Complete the online application form and provide complete and accurate information before the deadline
- Participate in the selection process which may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and panel interviews
Additional information
- Position Number: 4WSCI 0001RP
- Grade: P-3
- Contract Type: Fixed Term for 2 years, renewable
- Duty Station: Apia
- Geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to UNESCO's international posts
- UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution and gender parity
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Professionals with an advanced degree and at least four years of experience in communication, media development, or ICT policy, especially those with international exposure.
- Candidates skilled in project management, resource mobilization, and strategic partnership-building within international cooperation or UN frameworks.
- Individuals who possess strong cross-cultural communication abilities and are prepared for geographic mobility and international duty station assignments.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is based in Apia, requiring relocation if you are not currently located there, and involves mandatory geographical mobility for international posts.
- This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial duration of two years, which may require managing project-based funding cycles and institutional targets.
- The competitive selection process may involve multiple stages, including written assessments, video interviews, and panel discussions.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This P-3 role at UNESCO offers a strong platform for mid-career professionals aiming to deepen their footprint in international development, public policy, and freedom of expression initiatives. It suits individuals looking to drive regional projects, expand donor networks, and contribute directly to global sustainability goals within a prominent multilateral organization.
Our take
Experienced communication and information specialists with a background in international cooperation and policy development should seriously consider applying. It is less suitable for candidates without the required advanced degree or those unable to commit to an international assignment in Apia.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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