RSD Officer

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

• The organization is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. 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 state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR also works to ensure that refugees can access education, healthcare, and livelihoods, and that their basic needs are met.

Job Overview:
The RSD Officer position is crucial for providing expert advice and guidance on legal and procedural matters related to Refugee Status Determination (RSD). This role encompasses both mandate RSD and national asylum systems, depending on the context. The incumbent will be responsible for reviewing, endorsing, and clearing recommendations on individual cases in accordance with the RSD Procedural Standards or as directed by Senior Management. The RSD Officer will also contribute to the development of RSD strategies and methodologies aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of RSD as a protection tool. This position requires a proactive approach to implementing broader organizational objectives and priorities while ensuring compliance with UNHCR standards and policies. The RSD Officer will provide support and advice to staff engaged in RSD activities, monitor trends in RSD decision-making, and conduct training and capacity-building initiatives to promote consistency in RSD procedures. Additionally, the incumbent will advocate for and support government authorities and legal partners in enhancing their capacities in line with the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and other key UNHCR planning considerations. Collaboration with senior managers, RSD staff, and other relevant divisions is essential for the success of this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the RSD Officer include:

• Providing expert advice on legal and procedural matters related to RSD, ensuring adherence to UNHCR standards.
• Reviewing and endorsing recommendations on individual RSD cases, ensuring compliance with procedural standards.
• Developing and implementing RSD strategies and methodologies to enhance the effectiveness of RSD as a protection tool.
• Monitoring trends in RSD decision-making and providing guidance to staff engaged in RSD activities.
• Conducting training and capacity-building initiatives to promote consistency in RSD procedures and decision-making.
• Advocating with government authorities and legal partners to enhance their capacities in RSD.
• Collaborating with senior management and other divisions to align RSD activities with broader organizational objectives.
• Supervising National Officers or support staff at lower grade levels as necessary.
• Contributing to the development of regional and global RSD standards and policies as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the RSD Officer position include a strong understanding of international refugee law and the principles of asylum. The candidate should possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and apply legal standards effectively. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for collaborating with various stakeholders, including government authorities and legal partners. The candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to promoting human rights and protection principles in their work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the RSD Officer position typically includes a graduate degree in law, international relations, human rights, or a related field. A strong academic foundation in international refugee law and human rights law is highly desirable, as is any additional training or certification in RSD procedures or related areas.

Experience:
The RSD Officer position requires a minimum of several years of relevant professional experience in the field of refugee protection, asylum, or related areas. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of RSD, is highly valued. The candidate should have a proven track record of successfully managing complex cases and providing guidance on legal and procedural matters.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in English. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the region or the populations served, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international deployment and is not remote. The target start date for the position is November 14, 2025, and the deadline for applications is November 17, 202

• The role may involve working with family members, as indicated by the family type classification. The position is expected to be full-time and may require the incumbent to engage in various international and national collaborations.