Associate Protection Officer (Community-Based)

Organizational Context

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, protects refugees, asylum-seekers, and stateless persons globally. In Morocco, UNHCR collaborates with national authorities and partners to enhance protection systems, service access, and promote inclusion for refugees and asylum-seekers. The country faces evolving asylum procedures and increasing protection needs within a mixed-movement context. Strengthening community engagement, information access, and feedback mechanisms is crucial for effective protection delivery and accountability to affected populations.

Job Purpose

This role supports UNHCR Morocco's efforts to strengthen structured approaches to community engagement and information access. The UN Volunteer Associate will contribute to designing and operationalizing a communication strategy and community engagement model within a complex asylum environment. Embedded in the Community-Based Protection unit, the volunteer will work with protection teams, partners, and refugee communities. The assignment offers a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in protection analysis, delivery, community engagement, and operational planning, contributing to improved access to information and enhanced community participation in protection activities.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer Associate will support the development and implementation of a Communication with Communities (CwC) strategy aligned with UNHCR's Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) and Community-Based Protection (CBP) frameworks. This includes mapping communication needs, designing operational communication plans with key messages and channels, and identifying community structures. The role involves strengthening feedback and complaint mechanisms, analyzing trends, and developing accessible information materials. The volunteer will coordinate with partners for consistent messaging, conduct community consultations, and monitor communication effectiveness, including identifying and mitigating misinformation. Contributions will also include developing internal guidance and SOPs, ultimately strengthening communication approaches, improving information access for refugees, and enhancing partner coordination.

Work Experience

While no prior professional experience is strictly required, demonstrated interest and/or experience (up to 2 years) in refugee protection, community-based protection, communication with communities, or working with vulnerable populations is highly desirable. Experience as a volunteer or in a different cultural context is also advantageous.

Skills

Key competencies include professionalism, integrity, teamwork, respect for diversity, and a commitment to continuous learning. Strong planning, organizing, and communication skills are essential, as is adaptability and flexibility. The role requires the ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage information confidentially, and apply good judgment. Proficiency in computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, social media) and areas such as community development, communication, and crisis response are also important.

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