Organization Mission

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) helps make the world safer from drugs, organized crime, corruption and terrorism. We are committed to achieving health, security and justice for all by tackling these threats and promoting peace and sustainable well-being as deterrents to them.

Because the scale of these problems is often too great for states to confront alone, UNODC offers practical assistance and encourages transnational approaches to action. We do this in all regions of the world through our global programmes and network of field offices.

The Office is committed to supporting Member States in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at its core. The 2030 Agenda clearly recognizes that the rule of law and fair, effective and humane justice systems, as well as health-oriented responses to drug use, are both enablers for and part of sustainable development

Context

The Anti-Human Trafficking Associate will contribute to the activities that UNODC in Mexico implements to prevent and combat trafficking in persons (TIP). Framed by the Blue Heart Campaign and responding to the dispositions of the United Nations Convention against Organized Crime and its Protocols, UNODC has been delivering technical assistance to the government of Mexico to strengthen its capacities to prevent and combat this crime, as well as to assist and protect its victims. Also, given the complex nature of TIP, UNODC works closely with the private sector (mainly those companies linked to the tourism industry) and the civil society in order to set comprehensive programmes and public policies.

The Anti-Human Trafficking Associate will join a dynamic team in Mexico City with deep knowledge on the subject matter and with disposition to build bridges in order to tackle TIP in Mexico.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC ) Head of Office, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

-Supports the preparation of technical materials such as presentations targeting different audiences.
-Contributes to drafting concept notes and briefing papers for different donors and counterparts.
-Participates in meetings between UNODC and key stakeholders such as government institutions, civil society organizations (CSOs ), and the private sector.
-Contributes to the identification of new partners and potential donors, especially private sector industries that might have a direct relation with potential victims.
-Supports the organization of training workshops and activities organized by UNODC.
-Accompanies UNODC staff to meetings with government counterparts, CSOs, and the private sector to position UNODC’s work on the subject matter and provides support in drafting minutes of meetings and follow-up on agreements.
-Participates in United Nations (UN ) inter-agency meetings on human trafficking and/or related crimes such as migrant smuggling.
During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his/her direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check‑ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance feedback.

Required Skills and Experience

Demostrated interest or experience (up to 2 years) in Relationship Building is a desired skill as the ability to build and maintain strong, relevant relationships. This skill involves identifying potential partners, understanding their goals, and aligning them with your organization’s objectives.
-Communication and Interpersonal skills are required as the assignment encompasses clear articulation of ideas, active listening, and the capacity to tailor messaging to diverse audiences. Responsibilities include interactions with other team members and other counterparts (private sector, sport organizations, government officials).
-Adaptability and Innovation will be considered. The volunteer needs to be adaptable to navigate changes, including being open to innovation and willing to pivot strategies.
-The ability to express your thoughts effectively, both in oral and written communication is also highly valued, as you will produce minutes, memos and deliver presentations.
-Research skills are required including the ability to gather information, reviewing that information and analyze and interpret the details in a way to support a solution. A keen eye for detail and having a methodical approach is valued to ensure that no task is left incomplete, or instructions misunderstood.
-Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines is desirable.
-Previous experience as a volunteer and/or experience of another culture, (i.e. studies, volunteer work, internship) would be highly regarded.

Core Competencies

-Adaptability and Flexibility
-Building Trust
-Communication
-Integrity
-Judgement and Decision-making
-Knowledge Sharing
-Planning and Organizing
-Professionalism
-Respect for Diversity
-Technological Awareness
-Vision
-Working in Teams

Living Conditions

Mexico City is one of the largest cities worldwide and with overall god infrastructure (health, housing, banking transportation, telecommunications, and recreational facilities).

Cost of living:

There’s been an influx of digital nomads living in Mexico since remote work became more prevalent in the early 2020s. The average monthly salary in Mexico City is Mex$44,600 and these are some of the average costs per month:

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $822

Cost of living for one person: $808 (without rent)

Internet: $27

Utilities (gas, water, electric): $52

Transit: $20

Groceries: $200–300 per person

Banking and money:

Both short-term and long-term foreigners can open bank accounts in Mexico, but there is a need to show proof of residency. Some international banks may have different policies for residents and non-residents. Mexico City has numerous banks, both local and international. This means people can open accounts with banks they have pre-existing accounts with or start new ones at a local bank.

Transportation system:

Mexico City has an extensive and affordable public-transportation system consisting of subway trains, buses, rapid transit buses, and trolleybuses. Fares are paid through a reloadable card (Tarjeta Ciudadana) useful for every transport system. Taxis are also readily available in Mexico City, but it’s essential to use official taxi services from established companies or apps like Uber or DiDi to ensure safety and avoid overcharging.