iVolunteerOverseas - Advocacy Specialist

About VSO :

VSO is an international development organization with over 58 years of experience working with volunteers to eliminate poverty. VSO has been in Myanmar for just over two years but our work is still in its initial phase

Role overview :

In Myanmar the space for civil society to operate has been strictly limited in recent decades, but this is rapidly changing. Myanmar is transitioning towards a fledgling democracy, and civil society organisations (CSOs) will be important players in consolidating and extending gains in this area. VSO volunteer will contribute to creating a vibrant and diverse civil society- connecting communities and building social inclusion and accountability.He/she will work to strengthen CSO's ability to advocate for and strengthen engagement with government and for change in public policies.

The potential for civil society organisations to influence policy and practice varies from country to country and over time within particular countries. At present in Myanmar we may be seeing the opening up of space and influence. Socially-connected, urban civil society organizations can predominate in policy dialogue processes, and longer-term support is necessary to build the capacity and social capital needed by smaller organizations to engage effectively in policy dialogue. VSO volunteer may begin the process of building capacity and broader-based coalitions which can take a number of years, and support to networking may be as important as support for individual organisations.

Skills, qualifications and experience required :

- University degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, or equivalent

- Proven track record of delivering successfully on policy-related advocacy strategies within the development sector

- Experience in lobbying, advocacy and/or influencing a range of decision makers e.g. national governments, intergovernmental organisations, UN bodies, etc

- Understanding of a variety of advocacy approaches, preferably with expertise in undertaking applied research

- Experience in policy making processes

Financial Support VSO offers :

VSO provides a comprehensive support package for all volunteers

- Medical insurance

- Return flight to get you to, and home from, your placement

- Accommodation

- Financial package includes a local living allowance and more

VSO in-country team and the network of other VSO volunteers will also support you throughout your placement

Further information on VSO's work in each of the countries we work, additional opportunities and to read volunteer experiences, visit www.ivoindia.org

Last date of submission: 31st December 2015