UNICEF Research Consultant (Juvenile Justice Expert) – Remote Job Opportunity in Italy | Apply by 23 May 2026

UNICEF is hiring a Research Consultant (Juvenile Justice Expert) to support its Child Protection Section under the Europe and Central Asia Regional Office (ECARO). This is an exciting short-term consultancy for experienced professionals in child protection, migration, and juvenile justice systems.

The consultancy is based in Rome, Italy, but offers a remote working arrangement with occasional travel, making it ideal for international experts who want to contribute to strengthening protection systems for vulnerable children.

Job Summary

• Position Title: Research Consultant (Juvenile Justice Expert)
• Organization: UNICEF
• Contract Type: Consultant
• Duration: 3 Months
• Duty Station: Rome, Italy
• Work Arrangement: Remote with travel
• Functional Area: Child Protection
• Job Number: 593118
• Application Deadline: 23 May 2026

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About the Assignment

This consultancy focuses on improving Italy’s protection system for unaccompanied and separated children (UASC). The consultant will help identify good practices and operational gaps in the interaction between juvenile justice institutions and reception systems.

The work will support key Italian institutions, including the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of the Interior, to enhance coordination and consistency in child protection pathways in line with Law 47/2017 and the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.

Main Responsibilities

The selected consultant will:

• Conduct a desk review of protocols and coordination mechanisms for UASC.
• Develop data collection tools and build a database of practices.
• Carry out interviews with Juvenile Court professionals.
• Document good practices and identify institutional gaps.
• Prepare analytical reports and policy recommendations.
• Support national dialogue on improving child protection systems.

Eligibility Requirements

Education

Applicants must hold an advanced university degree in:

• Law
• Political Science
• Social Sciences
• International Relations
• Public Policy
• Migration Studies
• Or related fields

Professional Experience

Candidates should have:

• At least 6 years of experience in child protection, migration, asylum, or reception systems.
• At least 6 years of experience in justice sector work, governance, public policy, or research.
• Experience working with ministries, courts, local authorities, and public institutions.

Skills and Expertise

Strong candidates will demonstrate:

• Excellent analytical and report-writing skills.
• Experience with policy reviews and mapping exercises.
• In-depth knowledge of Italy’s UASC protection framework.
• Familiarity with EU migration and asylum policies.
• Ability to work effectively in multi-stakeholder environments.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in Italian and English is mandatory.

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Preferred Qualifications

UNICEF will favor candidates with:

• Experience with EU-funded programmes such as AMIF/FAMI.
• At least 3 years of engagement with Italian central administrations or EU institutions.
• Prior work involving juvenile justice systems and UASC coordination.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Updated CV and TMS profile
• Cover letter
• Financial proposal
• Technical proposal
• Samples of relevant analytical reports

Important: Applications without report samples will not be considered.

Why This Consultancy Matters

This assignment provides a unique opportunity to influence policies and systems that protect migrant and refugee children in Italy. Your work will directly contribute to improving how institutions coordinate to safeguard children’s rights and ensure timely support.

Why Work with UNICEF?

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories and is globally recognized for advancing the rights and wellbeing of children. Consultants work with leading experts and institutions while contributing to meaningful global change.

5 Benefits of This UNICEF Consultancy

• Fully remote work with limited travel.
• Opportunity to protect vulnerable migrant children.
• Gain experience with a prestigious UN organization.
• Collaborate with senior Italian and EU stakeholders.
• Strengthen your portfolio with impactful policy work.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through the official UNICEF Careers portal before 23 May 2026.

Final Thoughts

If you are an experienced researcher or policy expert passionate about child protection, juvenile justice, and migration, this UNICEF consultancy is an outstanding opportunity to make a real difference. With flexible remote work and the chance to shape national systems, this role offers both professional growth and social impact.