LocationsJPO Story - Teresa Lazzaroni Andina
February 16, 2026
UNDP Kosovo office retreat in Vermica, Kosovo (June 2024) *References to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999).
What is your educational background? How has your education shaped your approach to development work?
I hold a Double Master’s Degree in International Public Management from Sciences Po Paris and in Economics and Management of Government and International Organizations from Bocconi University in Milan. This interdisciplinary education gave me a strong foundation in public governance, economics, and policy analysis, while also teaching me to look beyond projects and focus on how policies, institutions, and incentives interact, and how reform efforts need to be adapted to local political, social, and administrative contexts in order to be sustainable.
What inspired you to apply to the JPO programme and what is your motivation to work with your UN agency?
I applied to the JPO Programme because I wanted to work directly on real-world governance and human rights issues in a country context, where policies and reforms have tangible consequences for people’s lives. UNDP stood out to me for its strong field presence and its long-term engagement with institutions, particularly in complex and sensitive environments. At the same time, the organization’s ability to connect country-level realities with global policy discussions and international partnerships was a strong motivation, as it allows lessons from the field to inform broader reform agendas and vice versa.
Teresa Lazzaroni Andina, Programme Analyst at UNDP GPGS/GRP team
What are the main activities/tasks you are working on? Can you walk us through a typical day in your role - whether in the office or out in the field?
My JPO assignment has been split between two complementary experiences. I started at the UNDP Kosovo* Country Office as a Programme Analyst in the Governance and Peacebuilding portfolio, where I worked on projects related to human rights, peacebuilding and public sector governance.
I am currently part of UNDP’s Governance for Public Goods and Services (GPGS) team where a typical day involves coordinating with country offices across different regions, contributing to global concept notes and partnerships, supporting knowledge products, and helping translate global frameworks into operational tools that can be used at country level.
*References to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999).
Which Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) does your work contribute to, and how?
My work primarily contributes to SDG 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by strengthening governance systems, promoting integrity, transparency, and human rights, and supporting more effective and inclusive public institutions. At the same time, my work supports progress across a wide range of other SDGs, as strong institutions are essential for delivering results in all sectors.
What has been the most challenging project you've undertaken during your time with UNDP, and what did you learn from the experience?
One of the most challenging experiences during my time with UNDP has been supporting the creation and expansion of FutureGov, a global initiative to support public sector transformation through Inclusion, Integrity and Innovation. This involved helping shape a shared vision, building partnerships with institutions such as the World Bank, OECD, and IMF, and ensuring that the initiative remained relevant to the needs of diverse country offices. Contributing to moments such as the FutureGov engagement at the CEPA conference also required translating complex governance ideas into a clear and compelling narrative for a global audience. From this experience, I learned how important coordination, adaptability, and clear strategic communication are when advancing new approaches to governance across multiple partners and contexts.
UNDP’s JPOs and Graduates, along with organizers, at the 2025 Purpose, Programmes, and Operations (PPO) Workshop (New York, February 2025)
What has been the most rewarding experience you have had at your duty station - whether professional or personal - that has shaped your journey as a JPO?
The most rewarding experience has been seeing how governance work translates into tangible change, whether through improved coordination among institutions in Kosovo or through global initiatives that support countries in reforming their public administrations.
What set of skills have you developed most throughout your assignment?
Throughout my JPO assignment, I have significantly strengthened my programme management skills, including planning, coordination, and reporting. I have also developed strong stakeholder engagement and partnership-building skills and learned how to navigate complex institutional environments.
What piece of advice would you give to those who are considering applying to the JPO Programme?
My advice would be not to hesitate. The JPO Programme offers an unmatched opportunity to learn by doing, take on real responsibility, and grow quickly in a supportive yet challenging environment. Approach it with curiosity, initiative, and openness, and you will gain far more than technical skills from the experience.
How has your JPO experience shaped your vision for your future within the UN or beyond?
My JPO experience has confirmed my desire to continue working in international development. It has helped me better understand how global policies are implemented on the ground and has strengthened my aspiration to contribute to shaping public sector transformation efforts that are inclusive, integrity-driven, and sustainable.
We also love hearing about the lighter side of life in the field; do you have a funny anecdote or a unique tradition from your duty station that made you smile?
In Kosovo*, one of my favourite traditions was how coffee breaks inevitably turned into long discussions that blended work, personal stories, and humour. It reminded me of Italy, where I am from, and how small daily rituals often play a similar role across cultures.
*References to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999)
My JPO journey has been a defining chapter, marked by meaningful work, constant learning, and moments that have shaped both my professional path and personal outlook.Teresa Lazzaroni Andina
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