The objective of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification around the world, particularly in Africa, through effective action at all levels, supported by international cooperation and partnership arrangements.The functions of the secretariat are, among others, to make arrangements for sessions of the Conference of the Parties (COP) and its subsidiary bodies. In addition, the secretariat also provides assistance to Parties in implementing the Convention.

The mission of the External Relations, Policy and Advocacy unit (ERPA) unit is to position the UNCCD as a credible and trusted partner in finding solutions to desertification, land degradation and drought (DLDD). To achieve this goal, the unit communicates relevant and persuasive policy messages, promotes the brand and overall reputation of the institution, bridges the science-policy interface, and builds partnerships that expand the UNCCD’s reach with key stakeholders such as civil society, the media and the private sector. This position is located in the ERPA unit and will in particular, provide secretarial and administrative support including coordination in the delivery of the work programme of UNCCD Regional Liaison Offices (RLOs) in the respective locations. The incumbent reports to one or more Programme Officers.