Senior Protection Assistant

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

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR works closely with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to provide assistance and protection to those in need, advocating for their rights and working towards durable solutions for their situations.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Assistant position at UNHCR involves providing essential protection support to refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The role requires the incumbent to develop and implement a comprehensive protection strategy, ensuring that the rights of these vulnerable populations are upheld. The Senior Protection Assistant will work closely with local authorities and partners to address protection issues, particularly concerning access to asylum at ports of entry and detention facilities. This position emphasizes the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes that affect their rights and solutions to their challenges. The incumbent will also monitor protection standards and operational practices to ensure compliance with international norms, while providing functional support to information management and program staff. The role is critical in fostering strong relationships with communities and stakeholders to enhance the protective environment for those UNHCR serves.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Protection Assistant will be responsible for a variety of duties, including: ensuring the consistent application of international and national laws, as well as UN/UNHCR and IASC policies; providing protection counseling to refugees and asylum seekers; monitoring protection concerns at ports of entry and detention facilities; referring cases to relevant agencies; supporting Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) programming; conducting interviews for eligibility assessments; contributing to efforts to prevent statelessness; monitoring and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); engaging in individual case management; assisting in identifying durable solutions; drafting reports and updating databases; collecting data relevant to UNHCR; maintaining regular contact with local authorities and project partners; participating in capacity-building initiatives; and ensuring integrity and accountability in protection service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with 2 years of relevant experience, or a bachelor's degree with 1 year of relevant experience. A background in community development, political science, social work, international relations, law, or related fields is preferred. Desirable qualifications include prior experience with UNHCR or other international humanitarian organizations, particularly in protection-related work with refugees and asylum seekers. Knowledge of Philippine law, especially in asylum, immigration, or human rights, is also beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate functional skills in computer literacy and familiarity with protection-related guidelines and standards.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent, with a preference for candidates holding a bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as community development, political science, social work, international relations, or law. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of protection issues faced by refugees and asylum seekers.

Experience:
The position requires at least 2 years of relevant experience for candidates with a high school diploma, or 1 year of relevant experience for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience in protection-related work, particularly with refugees, asylum seekers, or stateless persons, is crucial. Familiarity with UNHCR's operations and policies is a strong asset, as is experience in the Philippine legal context regarding asylum and human rights.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the duty station. Familiarity with Tagalog is desirable, as it enhances communication with local populations and authorities. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA5 role, with a target start date of December 1, 202

• The application deadline is November 15, 202
• The role is not remote and is based in Manila, Philippines. UNHCR emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified female applicants to apply. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) and is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.