Associate Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it works to promote durable solutions for displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Associate Protection Officer plays a critical role in the protection of forcibly displaced and stateless persons. Reporting to the Protection Officer or Senior Protection Officer, the incumbent may supervise protection staff and provide functional guidance on protection and legal matters. The position involves coordinating timely and effective protection responses, ensuring that operational responses mainstream protection methodologies and integrate safeguards. The Associate Protection Officer is expected to contribute to the design of comprehensive protection strategies, represent the organization externally, and ensure meaningful engagement of affected populations in decision-making processes. This role requires building effective relationships with communities, authorities, and partners to enhance protection outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Associate Protection Officer include staying informed about political, social, and economic developments affecting the protection environment, promoting international and national law, and providing legal advice to displaced persons. The incumbent will conduct eligibility and status determinations, promote measures to prevent statelessness, and contribute to child protection and education plans. Responsibilities also include overseeing individual protection cases, recommending durable solutions, facilitating participatory assessments, and managing risks related to sexual exploitation and abuse. The Associate Protection Officer will negotiate with authorities, enforce compliance with protection policies, and support the identification and management of risks in their area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in refugee protection, human rights, or international humanitarian law. Essential qualifications include professional experience in these areas, good knowledge of international refugee and human rights law, and the ability to apply relevant legal principles. Desirable qualifications include field experience working directly with communities and good IT skills, particularly in database management.

Educational Background:
The position requires a completed master’s degree in law, social sciences, or a related field. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree may be considered if they have a minimum of three years of relevant working experience. A strong academic background in international law or refugee law is preferred.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years and a maximum of four years of relevant professional experience in the field of refugee protection, internal displacement, or human rights. Field experience is particularly valuable, as it demonstrates the ability to work directly with affected communities and understand their needs.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Swedish is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the duty station, is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to produce various types of documents, including analytical reports.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Junior Professional Officer (JPO) role and is reserved exclusively for candidates with Swedish nationality. The target start date for the position is May 22, 2026, and the application deadline is June 18, 202

• The role is categorized under the hardship level D, indicating the challenges associated with the living and working conditions in the duty station. The position is full-time and involves regular assignments.