Associate Humanitarian Affairs Officer

Organizational Context

OCHA's mission is to mobilize and coordinate effective and principled humanitarian action with national and international partners to alleviate suffering, advocate for people in need, and promote preparedness. The OCHA Office of the Pacific (OP), established in 1999, operates in one of the world's most disaster-prone regions. It supports national efforts in 14 Pacific countries and territories, providing surge capacity and coordination for effective emergency response to frequent and intense disasters.

Job Purpose

This position, located in the OCHA Office of the Pacific Islands (OoP) in Suva, Fiji, reports to the Humanitarian Affairs Officer. The Associate Humanitarian Affairs Officer supports OCHA's mission to mobilize and coordinate effective and principled humanitarian action with national and international partners. The assignment's purpose is to alleviate human suffering during disasters and emergencies, advocate for the rights of affected populations, promote preparedness and prevention, and facilitate sustainable solutions across 14 Pacific countries and territories. The role contributes to strengthening OCHA's capacity to respond to the region's frequent and intense disasters, ensuring timely and coordinated assistance.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will monitor, analyze, and report on humanitarian responses, disaster relief programs, and emergency situations in the Pacific region. This involves establishing and maintaining contacts with UN agencies, NGOs, and government officials to facilitate information exchange and support collaboration within and outside the UN system. The role acts as a focal point for reporting and public information, managing social media, developing human-interest stories, advocacy tools, and website updates. The volunteer will coordinate the Emergency Crisis Communication Working Group of the Pacific Humanitarian Team (PHT), assisting in organizing and participating in relevant meetings and consultations with partners on humanitarian matters. They will collaborate with PHT clusters, UN regional offices, and the UN Communication Group to identify communication opportunities and prepare campaigns. Key duties include contributing to the development of various reporting and information products, such as the OoP Weekly, Annual Report, Humanitarian Situation Updates, and Bulletins. The volunteer will also assist in preparing OCHA reports, studies, policy guidelines, and presentations. The position requires the ability to travel throughout the 14 Pacific countries and territories, including deployment during emergencies, and involves frequent interaction with humanitarian colleagues, government counterparts, and civil society.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of progressively responsible professional experience in humanitarian work, development, or a related area is required. Desirable experience includes information management, development of communication strategies, media management, and/or communication campaigns. Knowledge of the UN system and previous experience with the UN and humanitarian system in the Pacific region are advantageous. Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required.

Skills

Required competencies include Professionalism, with knowledge of humanitarian assistance, emergency relief, and analytical capacity to address complex issues. The ability to handle sensitive information, conduct research, and work under pressure in stressful environments is essential. Communication skills are vital, including clear and concise English, active listening, tailoring messages, and demonstrating openness. Teamwork is also crucial, involving collaboration, valuing others' expertise, placing team goals first, and sharing responsibility for outcomes. Expertise in development programmes and communication is also noted.

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