Child Protection Officer , NO-1 , Temporary Position , Madagascar , 364 days, Fort Dauphin, Madagascar #00138127

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programmes, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfill their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries.

Responsibilities

Southern Madagascar is struggling with environmental degradation and prolonged dry periods as well as scarce rainfall, cyclones and flooding, while children in Madagascar are amongst the most vulnerable in the world to these impacts. In recent years, a series of cyclones — Honde, Jude, among others — have destroyed local infrastructures such as schools, health centers and water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure. Families there face high levels of poverty, malnutrition and malaria, low vaccination coverage, and serious risks for children, including early marriage and dropping out of school. Children in the Anosy region of Southern Madagascar face a range of child protection risks, including violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect. The Child Protection Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring child protection programmes in the region, working closely with local authorities, communities, and other partners to address these risks and ensure the safety and well-being of children.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of professional experience in child protection, social work, or a related field, preferably in a humanitarian or development context.

Skills

Child Protection Programme Management, Risk Assessment and Mitigation, Community Engagement, Partnership Building, Monitoring and Evaluation, Report Writing, Emergency Response, Advocacy, Capacity Building, UNICEF Policies and Procedures

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