Child Protection Officer
Organizational Context
MONUSCO, established in 1999, supports the DRC Government in protecting civilians by reducing threats from armed groups and violence, including against children. It aims to stabilize the country by fostering functional state institutions. The mission also focuses on understanding human rights violations and informing policy decisions. The Child Protection Section monitors, documents, and reports child protection concerns, collaborating with partners to inform interventions and advocacy.
Job Purpose
The UN Volunteer will serve within the MONUSCO Child Protection Section, contributing to the implementation of the Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) mandate. This involves strengthening child protection systems, enhancing collaboration with the DRC Government on an action plan to prevent child recruitment and other grave violations, and ensuring the effective functioning of the Joint UN-DRC Government Technical Working Group. The role supports MONUSCO's broader child protection objectives and promotes the safety, rights, and well-being of children affected by conflict through monitoring, documentation, reporting, and advocacy.
Responsibilities
The UN Volunteer Child Protection Officer will mainstream child protection within MONUSCO by integrating child-conscious approaches into mission components like UN Police and Military Liaison Officers, and by providing training on child rights. They will advocate and coordinate with the DRC government on the Action Plan to Prevent and End the Recruitment of Children and participate in relevant working groups and coordination mechanisms. The role involves liaising with national counterparts, civil society, and NGOs to ensure adequate responses to violations against children. Furthermore, the incumbent will participate in the Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism (MRM), conduct field missions to verify allegations of child rights violations, and ensure timely delivery of reports and communications.
Work Experience
Requires 3 years of relevant experience, including human rights or child protection work in conflict/post-conflict zones with UN agencies, national entities, or NGOs. Experience in child protection monitoring, documentation, verification, and reporting is essential. Knowledge of international child rights standards and experience in programming, advocacy, and training are also required. Field experience in armed conflict situations and proficiency in Microsoft Office are necessary.
Skills
Key competencies include planning and organizing, professionalism, communication, and teamwork with respect for diversity. Expertise is needed in emergency preparedness, crisis response, humanitarian affairs, protection, and safety and security. Excellent written and oral communication skills in both French and English are required.