Communications and Operations Assistant, Manama

General

Description of assignment title: Communications and Operations Assistant

Assignment country: Bahrain

Duty stations: Manama

Work location: On UN premises

Expected start date: 10/01/2026

Duration: 6 months (with possibility of extension)

Sustainable Development Goal: 17. Partnerships for the goals

Host entity: UNIC BHR

Modality: Onsite

Type: National

Volunteer category: Associate UCoS from Apr2026

Work schedule: Part-time

Number of Assignments: 1

Details

Mission and objectives

UNIC Manama promotes public understanding of the United Nations and its priorities in Bahrain, the UAE, and the State of Qatar through media engagement, digital communications, public outreach, and partnerships. To support these activities, the Centre seeks a part-time UN Volunteer to contribute to communications, media monitoring, and content creation while providing administrative and operational support to ensure the smooth functioning of the office.

Context

UNIC Manama promotes public understanding of the United Nations and its priorities in Bahrain, the UAE, and the State of Qatar through media engagement, digital communications, public outreach, and partnerships. To support these activities, the Centre seeks a part-time UN Volunteer to contribute to communications, media monitoring, and content creation while providing administrative and operational support to ensure the smooth functioning of the office.

Volunteer Entitlements:

Part-time National UN Associate Volunteers in Bahrain will receive:

• Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (MLA) of BHD 378.4.
• Entry lumpsum of USD 350.
• Free medical insurance coverage.

Task description

A. Communications and Public Information (75%)

1. Content Creation and Storytelling
   
   • Draft news articles, human-interest stories, and web content in English and Arabic highlighting UN activities and priorities in Bahrain.
   • Conduct background research and gather information, quotes, and supporting materials from UN agencies and partners.
   • Support the development of communication materials for UN campaigns, events, and international observances.
2. Social Media Management
   
   • Draft, schedule, and publish content for UNIC Manama social media platforms in English and Arabic.
   • Support the implementation of digital communication and awareness campaigns.
   • Monitor social media engagement and prepare basic analytics and performance reports.
3. Photography, Videography, and Multimedia Production
   
   • Capture photographs and video footage of UN-supported activities, events, and missions.
   • Produce multimedia content, including short videos, reels, and photo stories.
   • Maintain organized archives of photographic and audiovisual materials.
   • Draft captions and accompanying texts for multimedia products.
4. Website and Digital Content Support
   
   • Prepare and upload stories, announcements, and communication materials to the UN in Bahrain website.
   • Ensure online content remains accurate, current, and aligned with UN communication guidelines and messaging.
5. Outreach, Visibility, and Event Support
   
   • Support the planning and implementation of public information campaigns, outreach initiatives, and visibility activities.
   • Assist in the preparation and dissemination of communication materials during UN events and observances.
6. Media Monitoring and Reporting
   
   • Monitor local, regional, and international media coverage, including print, online, broadcast, and social media platforms, related to the United Nations and relevant thematic issues.
   • Prepare periodic media monitoring reports, summaries, and communication updates.
   • Maintain records of media coverage and communication outputs.

B. Administration and Operations Support (25%)

7. Administrative Support
   
   • Provide general administrative assistance to the Head of Office and the UNIC team.
   • Draft routine correspondence and maintain filing systems, records, and documentation.
   • Schedule meetings and coordinate meeting arrangements and logistics.
8. Operational and Logistical Support
   
   • Assist in the organization and coordination of meetings, workshops, media events, and outreach activities.
   • Provide logistical support for office activities and events as required.
9. Records Management and Reporting
   
   • Maintain administrative records, contact lists, and distribution databases.
   • Support the preparation of basic administrative, operational, and activity reports.
10. Other Duties
    
    • Perform other related tasks and responsibilities as assigned by the Head of Office.

Eligibility criteria

Age: 18 - 80

Required experience: 1 month

Nationality: Candidate must be a national, legal resident or hold refugee status in the country of assignment.

Assignment requirements

Relevant experience: 1 year

Languages:

• Arabic, Level: Fluent, Required
• English, Level: Fluent, Required

Required education level: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, Marketing, Digital Media, Public Relations, Writing & Proofreading, Public Administration, Business Administration or a related field.

Competencies and values:

• Creativity
• Planning and organising
• Professionalism

Skills and experience:

• Experience in communications, journalism, social media, public information or administration required.
• Experience in photography, videography and content creation is highly desirable.
• Experience organizing events or providing office support is an asset.
• Relevant internship experience will be counted towards the required professional experience.

Skills:

• Social media management.
• Photography, videography, and basic video editing skills are highly desirable
• Content writing and editing in English and Arabic.
• Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple assignments.

Area(s) of expertise: Communication, advocacy, public information, Administration, Digital and social media

Driving license: -

Other information

Volunteerism is understood as a wide range of activities undertaken of free will, for the general public good, for which monetary reward is not the principal motivating factor.

Living conditions and remarks

Manama, Bahrain, is a family-friendly duty station classified as "A" for its high standard of living and accessibility to amenities. The city is culturally diverse, safe, and offers excellent infrastructure, including modern healthcare facilities, international schools, reliable utilities (water, electricity, and internet), and a well-developed banking system. Accommodation options range from high-rise apartments to villas, catering to various preferences and budgets. The climate is hot and arid, with mild winters and very hot summers. Dress code expectations are generally modest, particularly in professional settings, though Bahrain is more liberal compared to neighboring countries. Bahrain’s small size makes travel within the country convenient, and the international airport in Manama offers excellent connectivity to the region and beyond. The cost of living is relatively moderate, with access to global cuisine, shopping, and recreational facilities. Bahrain is a vibrant and enriching environment for expatriates, blending modernity with deep cultural heritage. However, new arrivals should embrace cultural awareness and adaptability to integrate seamlessly into local life. While the country offers comfort and convenience, maintaining a respectful and open-minded approach to cultural and social norms is essential for a fulfilling experience

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, care protected characteristics. As part of their adherence to the values of UNV, all UN Volunteers commit themselves to combat any form of discrimination, and to promoting respect for human rights and individual dignity, without distinction of a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

Note on Covid-19 vaccination requirements

Selected candidates for certain occupational groups may be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) in line with the applicable host entity policy

Scam warning

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