RSD Associate

Organizational Context

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for forcibly displaced people. UNHCR works in over 130 countries, assisting millions of people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution.

Job Purpose

The RSD Associate will be responsible for conducting refugee status determination (RSD) interviews and making recommendations on asylum claims. This role involves assessing the credibility and veracity of information provided by asylum seekers, ensuring adherence to UNHCR's RSD procedures and international protection standards. The Associate will document interview findings, analyze case information, and prepare detailed reports to support decision-making. This position requires a sensitive and objective approach to interviewing vulnerable individuals, maintaining confidentiality, and upholding the principles of non-refoulement. The Associate will contribute to the fair and efficient processing of asylum cases, ensuring that protection needs are identified and addressed throughout the RSD process.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive RSD interviews with asylum seekers, gathering detailed information about their claims, personal circumstances, and reasons for seeking international protection. Assess the credibility and consistency of information provided by applicants, identifying any discrepancies or areas requiring further clarification. Analyze case files, relevant country of origin information, and UNHCR guidelines to inform RSD recommendations. Prepare detailed and objective RSD assessment reports, clearly articulating the findings, legal basis for recommendations, and any protection concerns. Ensure all RSD activities are conducted in accordance with UNHCR's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for RSD and relevant international and national legal frameworks. Maintain accurate and confidential records of all interviews, assessments, and case documentation. Identify protection needs and vulnerabilities of asylum seekers during interviews and refer them to relevant UNHCR units or implementing partners for appropriate assistance. Stay updated on asylum law, international protection principles, and regional migration trends. Support the training and capacity building of junior staff or interpreters involved in RSD processes. Contribute to the overall quality assurance and improvement of RSD operations within the office. Liaise with other UNHCR units, implementing partners, and relevant government authorities as required to facilitate the RSD process and ensure coordinated protection responses.

Work Experience

Minimum of one year of relevant work experience in refugee status determination, asylum processing, or protection-related activities. Experience working with vulnerable populations and conducting sensitive interviews is essential.

Skills

Refugee Status Determination (RSD) Interviewing skills Case management Report writing International protection principles Country of Origin Information (COI) analysis Confidentiality Objectivity Attention to detail Communication skills Interpersonal skills Cultural sensitivity

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