External Relations Associate

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, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to providing protection and assistance to millions of people forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence.

Job Overview:
The External Relations Associate plays a crucial role in the UNHCR's mission by managing external communications and relationships with various stakeholders, including media, local organizations, and government officials. This position is vital for promoting awareness and understanding of refugee issues and ensuring that the organization's activities are well-represented in the public sphere. The incumbent will be responsible for providing background briefings to media, tracking evolving issues concerning refugees, and producing reports and briefings for both internal and external partners. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for advocacy and collaboration, as well as the ability to manage risks effectively. The External Relations Associate will work closely with the External Relations Officer and other senior staff, receiving guidance and support to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the External Relations Associate include: providing background briefings to local and international media; tracking evolving issues concerning persons of concern to suggest stories and topics for media coverage; preparing daily briefings on local developments for the Head of Office; accompanying foreign delegations and media visits to refugee sites, providing briefings and commentaries; establishing contacts with local organizations to promote understanding of refugee issues; keeping the office informed of local developments that may impact operations; compiling information and SitReps from Field Offices into reports; advising the Head of Office on local external relations policies; liaising with external partners and local organizations; producing reports and briefings; supporting risk management and decision-making; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the External Relations Associate position include a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Candidates should possess essential functional skills such as drafting and documentation, computer literacy, and web content management. Additionally, experience in liaising with humanitarian organizations or donors, public-facing reporting, and strong interpersonal and communication skills are highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate attention to detail and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a High School Diploma. A Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Political Science, Social Sciences, International Relations, Journalism, or Communication is preferred. Certificates and licenses in these areas are considered essential for the role. Completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the functions of the position is also desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience for those with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Experience in external relations, communications, or public affairs within a humanitarian context is highly valued. Prior experience managing or supporting projects funded by KOICA is considered an asset, as is experience in liaising with donors or public-facing reporting for humanitarian organizations.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirements for this position include proficiency in English and the UN working language of the duty station, which is Korean. Candidates should have at least a B2 level of proficiency in both languages. Knowledge of additional languages is considered a plus, but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS6 level and is temporary, with a target start date of January 12, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202

• The role is family-type and is located in Seoul, South Korea. Candidates must have the right to work in South Korea, as UNHCR does not facilitate visa procurement for recruitment. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a test, and late applications will not be accepted. UNHCR is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital status, race, or sexual orientation. The organization does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.