Volontaire communautaire en protection de l'enfant
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. In Djibouti, UNICEF has been active since 1981, collaborating with partners to ensure a better future for children. The Obock region faces an influx of Yemeni refugees, requiring enhanced humanitarian response. Children and families in this area are at increased risk of separation, violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect, psychosocial distress, early marriage, child labor, and limited access to essential services.
Job Purpose
This assignment aims to support the implementation of community-based child protection activities within the emergency response in Obock, Djibouti. The Community Child Protection Volunteer will work under supervision to assist in the preliminary identification and referral of vulnerable children, provide psychosocial support, prevent protection risks, engage the community, ensure accountability to affected populations, and collect field information. The role is designed for a junior profile, motivated by proximity work, capable of executing simple tasks under supervision, and does not involve strategic coordination, budget management, or autonomous technical decision-making. The goal is to reinforce the field team to address the needs of approximately 10,000 refugees.
Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the UNICEF Child Protection Officer, the Community Child Protection Volunteer will collaborate with local authorities, refugee communities, implementing partners, and technical teams. Key responsibilities include: Supporting the preliminary identification of children at risk (unaccompanied, separated, exposed to violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect, or psychosocial distress) and referring them to appropriate services. Assisting in community follow-up of referred cases without independent case management, and maintaining simple, confidential tracking lists. Assisting in organizing age- and gender-appropriate recreational, educational, and psychosocial activities for children and adolescents in safe spaces, observing participation, and reporting concerns. Participating in community awareness sessions on child protection, prevention of family separation, violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect, early marriage, child labor, PSEA, and safe reporting mechanisms. Disseminating validated messages and facilitating discussions to promote protective practices and access to services. Collecting basic data on activities, participant numbers (disaggregated by sex and age), community concerns, and emerging needs. Supporting the reporting of feedback and suggestions from communities through established mechanisms, while strictly adhering to confidentiality and child safeguarding procedures.
Work Experience
No extensive professional experience is required. A prior experience of 0-1 year in internships, volunteering, community mobilization, or associative activities is an asset. Previous exposure to child protection, humanitarian, or community-based activities is desirable but not mandatory. Familiarity with the Obock region and local communities is advantageous.
Skills
Commitment and motivation for volunteering, respect for diversity and dignity, adaptability, flexibility, communication, listening skills, teamwork, responsibility, integrity, confidentiality, professionalism, and continuous learning are essential. Practical skills include the ability to communicate respectfully with diverse communities, work in the field under emergency conditions, follow instructions, use basic data collection tools, and possess basic smartphone and messaging skills. Community development experience is also noted.