Assistant Durable Solutions Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established on December 14, 1950, by the United Nations General Assembly. Its mission is to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. UNHCR's primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. The organization also assists stateless people. As of December 31, 2021, UNHCR had recruited 18,879 personnel, with approximately 91 percent based in the field. The agency operates in 137 countries and territories, with a mix of regional and branch offices, as well as sub and field offices, focusing on a wide range of disciplines including legal protection, administration, community services, public affairs, and health.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Durable Solutions Officer is a critical role within the Protection Team at the Multi Country Office (ZAMCO) in Lusaka, Zambia. Reporting to the Senior Protection Officer, the incumbent will play a vital role in advancing both existing and new opportunities for durable solutions for refugees and former refugees in Zambia. This position supports a Representation Office in Lusaka, two field offices in Solwezi and Kaoma, and a Field Unit in Kawambwa, while also overseeing operations in Malawi and Zimbabwe. The role involves building strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, development agencies, civil society, and peacebuilding actors, to facilitate durable solutions for refugees. The Assistant Durable Solutions Officer will analyze risks and obstacles to solutions, explore opportunities for local integration, and engage with populations of concern to identify the most appropriate solutions. The position emphasizes the importance of local integration for former Rwandan and Angolan refugees and requires the development of communication strategies to ensure community engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Durable Solutions Officer will undertake a comprehensive set of tasks aimed at implementing activities in accordance with the comprehensive solutions strategy. Key responsibilities include: implementing activities to find durable solutions for forcibly displaced persons, with a focus on long-term local integration for former Rwandan and Angolan refugees; participating in planning and advising on alternative solutions; engaging in consultative processes with UNHCR and external partners to promote voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement; meeting with displaced populations to assess their needs and identify appropriate solutions; monitoring the implementation of the durable solutions strategy and providing recommendations for improvements; analyzing statistics and drafting reports; preparing Resettlement Referral Forms (RRF) and documentation for local integration; designing national and regional comprehensive durable solutions strategies; engaging with national and local interlocutors; providing counseling to refugees and displaced populations; assisting in updating electronic databases; processing documentation for timely delivery of required documents; preparing statistical and ad-hoc reports; and ensuring effective risk management and decision-making in the functional area of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of refugee protection principles and durable solutions. They should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and a commitment to the rights and well-being of refugees. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, as is the ability to engage effectively with displaced populations. The role requires adaptability, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Educational Background:
A university degree in social sciences, international relations, law, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in refugee protection, humanitarian assistance, or related areas are highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in refugee protection, durable solutions, or related fields. Experience working with displaced populations and knowledge of local integration processes are advantageous. Familiarity with UNHCR policies and procedures is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNHCR. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zambia, such as Bemba or Nyanja, is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Lusaka, Zambia, and may involve travel to field offices and other locations within the country. The role is full-time and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate the needs of displaced populations. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to improving the lives of refugees and former refugees in Zambia.