Protection Associate
Organizational Context
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. UNHCR ensures that everyone can exercise their right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or resettle in a third country.
Job Purpose
The Protection Associate will be responsible for assisting in the implementation of protection activities within UNHCR's mandate. This involves supporting the identification of protection needs, developing and implementing protection strategies, and ensuring the protection of refugees and other persons of concern. The role requires close collaboration with government authorities, implementing partners, and other stakeholders to advocate for the rights and protection of vulnerable populations. The Protection Associate will contribute to ensuring that UNHCR's protection principles are integrated into all aspects of programming and operations, including registration, documentation, legal assistance, and community-based protection initiatives. The position aims to enhance the overall protection environment and ensure that the rights and dignity of persons of concern are upheld throughout their displacement.
Responsibilities
Assist in the development and implementation of protection strategies and activities, ensuring they are in line with UNHCR's mandate and international protection standards. Support the identification and assessment of protection needs of refugees and other persons of concern, including vulnerable groups, through field visits, interviews, and data analysis. Contribute to the registration and documentation processes, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality of information. Provide direct assistance and support to individuals requiring protection, including legal counseling, psychosocial support referrals, and access to essential services. Monitor the protection situation in the field, identify protection gaps and risks, and report findings to the supervisor. Engage with refugees and host communities to promote community-based protection mechanisms and foster self-reliance. Liaise with government authorities, implementing partners, and other UN agencies to coordinate protection efforts and advocate for the rights of persons of concern. Assist in the organization and facilitation of training sessions and awareness-raising activities on protection issues. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and databases related to protection activities. Support the preparation of protection-related reports, including situation reports, needs assessments, and project proposals.
Work Experience
At least two years of relevant work experience in humanitarian affairs, protection, or a related field.
Skills
Protection monitoring Needs assessment Registration and documentation Legal counseling Community-based protection Coordination Advocacy Reporting Data analysis Interpersonal skills Communication skills Problem-solving