Protection Associate

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

• The mission of UNHCR is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, displaced communities, and stateless persons. The organization operates in over 130 countries, providing protection and assistance to millions of people worldwide. UNHCR's work is guided by law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and humanitarian principles, focusing on finding durable solutions for those in need. In Rwanda, UNHCR collaborates with the Government of Rwanda and various partners to address the needs of refugees and asylum seekers, particularly in the context of the ongoing refugee situation stemming from instability in neighboring countries.

Job Overview:
The Protection Associate position is a critical role within the UNHCR Rwanda Protection Unit, specifically based in the Rubavu Field Unit. The incumbent will report directly to the Associate Protection Officer and will be responsible for monitoring protection standards and operational procedures in line with international standards. The role requires a proactive approach to coordinating effective protection responses to the needs of refugees, displaced persons, and stateless individuals. The Protection Associate will also contribute to the development of a comprehensive protection strategy and ensure that the communities served are actively involved in decision-making processes that affect their rights and solutions to their challenges. This position is essential in fostering collaboration with local authorities and protection partners to enhance the protection environment for vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Associate will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: monitoring political, social, economic, and cultural developments impacting the protection environment; applying international and national laws and UN/UNHCR policies; providing advice on protection issues; assisting in eligibility and status determination processes; contributing to child protection and education plans; managing individual protection cases, including those related to gender-based violence (GBV) and child protection; monitoring cases of refoulement and other protection incidents; identifying durable solutions for refugees; facilitating effective information management; participating in capacity-building initiatives for authorities and NGOs; and assisting in the logistics and administrative support for voluntary repatriation operations. The incumbent will also be responsible for drafting reports and ensuring compliance with protection standards and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's degree or higher. Essential qualifications include experience working with UNHCR in protection and solutions, as well as training in international protection principles. Functional skills required for this position include computer literacy, awareness of protection and solutions, and knowledge of refugee protection principles and frameworks. Experience in an international organization, such as the United Nations, is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma with 3 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree or higher with 2 years of relevant work experience. Fields of education that are relevant include International Development, Cultural Studies, Human Rights, International Social Work, Social Science, Political Science, Anthropology, International Law, or other related fields.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is at least 3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 2 years with a Bachelor's degree or higher. Candidates should have practical experience in protection and solutions, particularly in a UNHCR context, and familiarity with the challenges faced by refugees and displaced communities.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Kinyarwanda is mandatory, along with a very good working knowledge of regional languages. Knowledge of French is considered an added advantage, enhancing communication capabilities within the diverse linguistic landscape of the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the Local Target Start Date of November 20, 2025, and is expected to last until December 2026, with the possibility of renewal. The role is categorized under the LICA 6 level (UNOPS), corresponding to G

• The position is not remote and is based in Rubavu, Rwanda. The incumbent will be expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, contributing to a safe and inclusive working environment while adhering to UNHCR's core values and competencies.