HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS OFFICER

Organizational Context

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), part of the UN Secretariat, brings together humanitarian actors for coherent emergency responses. OCHA's mission is to mobilize and coordinate effective humanitarian action, advocate for those in need, and promote preparedness. This role is within the Crisis Response Division in Bangui, Central African Republic, reporting to the Head of Coordination Unit.

Job Purpose

The Humanitarian Affairs Officer will support the implementation of the humanitarian program cycle, including drafting the Humanitarian Needs Overview and Humanitarian Response Plan. This role involves monitoring and reporting on humanitarian developments, analyzing emergency situations, and preparing studies on relief issues. The officer will coordinate international humanitarian assistance for complex emergencies, ensuring necessary support is provided. They will also support epidemic preparedness, engage with various stakeholders, and contribute to policy development related to humanitarian principles and effective aid delivery. The position requires participation in field missions and the preparation of various reports and communications to inform the international community and facilitate decision-making.

Responsibilities

Coordinate international humanitarian and emergency assistance for complex disaster situations, ensuring adequate support in terms of staff, funding, and supplies. Draft situation reports for the international community, detailing current conditions and unmet needs. Support the humanitarian program cycle, including the development of the Humanitarian Needs Overview and Humanitarian Response Plan. Monitor, analyze, and report on humanitarian developments and emergency situations in the assigned area. Organize studies on humanitarian relief issues and facilitate interagency meetings for policy development. Collaborate with other humanitarian agencies to plan and evaluate programs, incorporating lessons learned and gender considerations. Maintain contact with government officials, UN agencies, NGOs, and media. Undertake field missions to review coordination mechanisms. Prepare reports, documents, and communications on humanitarian affairs. Serve as a focal point for specific policy issues, providing information and advice. Review and advise on policies for humanitarian principles and aid delivery. Organize and participate in relevant meetings and consultations. Provide guidance and supervision to junior staff.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in humanitarian affairs, emergency preparedness, crisis management, or related fields is required. Direct field experience in emergency situations (complex emergencies or natural disasters) is essential. Experience with the Humanitarian Response Planning (HPC) and cluster system is desired, as is experience within the UN Common System and in the West and Central Africa region.

Skills

Professionalism, teamwork, and client orientation. Strong analytical and research skills. Ability to work under pressure in stressful environments. Competence in humanitarian assistance, emergency relief, and human rights issues. Experience in coordinating humanitarian responses and developing policy. Effective communication and interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement. Ability to provide guidance to junior staff.

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