Community-Based Protection 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 Community-Based Protection Associate will support the implementation of UNHCR's community-based protection strategy in Rwanda. This role focuses on engaging with displaced populations, understanding their protection needs, and facilitating their access to essential services and durable solutions. The Associate will work closely with affected communities to empower them and ensure their meaningful participation in decisions that affect their lives. This involves building trust, fostering self-reliance, and advocating for their rights and well-being. The position requires a strong understanding of protection principles and a commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of refugees and other persons of concern.
Responsibilities
The Community-Based Protection Associate will be responsible for implementing community-based protection activities in accordance with UNHCR's policies and guidelines. This includes conducting regular outreach to refugee communities to identify protection risks and vulnerabilities, and to assess their needs and capacities. The Associate will facilitate community consultations and participatory assessments to ensure that the voices of refugees are heard and integrated into protection planning and programming. They will work to strengthen community structures and empower refugees to participate in their own protection. This involves organizing and facilitating community meetings, focus group discussions, and other engagement activities. The Associate will also support the referral of protection cases to relevant UNHCR units and partners, and monitor the follow-up of these cases. They will contribute to the development of community-based protection strategies and work plans, and assist in the collection and analysis of data related to community protection. Furthermore, the Associate will promote awareness of UNHCR's mandate and services among refugee communities and build strong working relationships with community leaders, local authorities, and implementing partners to ensure effective coordination and collaboration in protection efforts.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of relevant work experience is required, preferably in a humanitarian or development context, with a focus on protection or community engagement.
Skills
Community engagement Protection principles Needs assessment Data collection and analysis Report writing Interpersonal skills Communication skills Advocacy Coordination Problem-solving