UN-Habitat is the United Nations agency dedicated to promoting socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. As the UN’s coordinating body for urban issues, it plays a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and implementing the New Urban Agenda. The agency’s External Relations, Strategy, Knowledge and Innovation Division (ERSKI) spearheads global communications and outreach to support sustainable urban development worldwide.
Opportunity Overview: Writer & Copy Editor
Are you a skilled storyteller with a passion for global development and urban transformation? UN-Habitat is seeking a Writer & Copy Editor to join its Communications and Media Section in Nairobi. This full-time, on-site role offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the agency’s flagship events and shape narratives around sustainable urbanization.
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Duration: 12 months (extendable)
Volunteer Category: International UN Volunteer Specialist
Application Deadline: 15 October 2025
Host Entity: UN-Habitat
Key Responsibilities
- Content Creation: Develop impact stories, press releases, speeches, op-eds, newsletters, and forewords for UN-Habitat publications.
- Event Promotion: Lead news coverage and promotion of major events, including the World Urban Forum, World Habitat Day, and World Cities Day.
- Editing & Review: Edit and review documents to ensure clarity, flow, and alignment with UN editorial standards and communication goals.
- Content Restructuring: Rewrite and refine materials to enhance accessibility and impact.
- Capacity Building: Provide editorial support and training to elevate standards across teams.
- Terminology & Accuracy: Ensure consistency, originality, and proper citation in all outputs.
- Reporting: Act as a report-writer for UN meetings, both in Nairobi and abroad.
- Editorial Planning: Manage deadlines and contribute to content production planning.
- Knowledge Sharing: Engage in storytelling and knowledge-sharing activities within the UNV programme.
Eligibility Criteria
Required Experience:
- At least 5 years of professional experience in writing, editing, or content development.
- Proven background in creative and visual storytelling.
- Experience in multicultural, multi-agency environments; UN or development sector experience is an asset.
- Familiarity with urban development or sustainability topics is highly desirable.
Education:
- Master’s degree in communications, journalism, media, storytelling, or a related field.
Languages:
- Fluency in English is essential.
Nationality:
- Applicants must be nationals of countries other than Kenya.
Competencies & Values:
- Excellent communication and editorial judgment
- Professionalism and understanding of UN protocols
- Strong planning and organizational skills under pressure
- Cultural sensitivity and the ability to thrive in diverse teams
What You’ll Gain
- First-hand experience with a leading UN agency on high-impact global urban initiatives
- Opportunity to shape public narratives on sustainable development and urbanization
- Enhanced skills in international communication, advocacy, and editorial production
- Direct contribution to major UN campaigns, including the World Urban Forum
Living and Working in Nairobi
Nairobi is the headquarters of UN-Habitat and UNEP. The city boasts modern amenities, robust infrastructure, international schools, and a vibrant cultural scene. Volunteers receive fair stipends and UNV benefits, which are adjusted based on duty station and assignment length.Calculate your entitlements: UNV Entitlement Calculator
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application via the UNV platform by 15 October 2025:
Apply here: https://app.unv.org/opportunities/1784888021263852
Join UN-Habitat in Nairobi and help shape the future of sustainable cities!
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