UN Volunteer - Protection Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, was established to protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless individuals. Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of these vulnerable populations by ensuring they can seek asylum, find safe refuge, and ultimately return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle elsewhere. UNHCR operates globally, focusing on humanitarian assistance, sustainable solutions to displacement, and advocacy for improved laws and systems to protect displaced populations. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the communities it serves, to address the complex challenges faced by refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer - Protection Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Head of Ogoja Sub Office, covering Makurdi, Benue. The role involves engaging with partner protection monitoring staff to assess the protection environment and draft reports, as well as facilitating community engagement and empowerment activities. The assistant will support the UNHCR protection desks, advocate for targeted protection responses, and participate in peace initiatives alongside key stakeholders. This position is crucial in providing humanitarian assistance and supporting emergency response actions during displacement incidents, thereby contributing to the overall mission of UNHCR in addressing the needs of displaced communities in Benue.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer - Protection Assistant include: (i) Collaborating with partner protection monitoring staff to evaluate the protection environment and prepare related reports. (ii) Engaging in community empowerment activities to foster resilience and support for displaced individuals. (iii) Assisting with the functions of UNHCR protection desks and advocating for targeted protection responses and access to essential services for displaced communities. (iv) Participating in peace initiatives in collaboration with other stakeholders, including training on alternative dispute resolution. (v) Supporting humanitarian assistance activities as needed. (vi) Attending IDP Coordination meetings, conducting joint assessments, and participating in field monitoring engagements. (vii) Assisting with emergency response actions during sudden displacement incidents. (viii) Undertaking emergency and protection reporting tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer - Protection Assistant position should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to the principles of humanitarian assistance and protection. They should demonstrate adaptability and flexibility in challenging environments, as well as a strong sense of accountability and professionalism. The ability to work collaboratively in teams and engage with diverse communities is essential. Candidates should also exhibit a commitment to continuous learning and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in social sciences, international relations, human rights, or a related field. Candidates with additional training or certifications in protection, humanitarian assistance, or community engagement will be viewed favorably.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in humanitarian work, community engagement, or protection-related roles. Experience working with displaced populations or in conflict-affected areas is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and displaced communities, as well as familiarity with the humanitarian-development-peace nexus.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of UNHCR. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Benue, such as Tiv or Fulfulde, would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with the communities served.

Additional Notes:
This position is a UN Volunteer role, which typically involves a commitment to a specific duration, often ranging from six months to one year. The role is full-time, and while it is based in Makurdi, the assistant may be required to travel to various locations within the region as needed. The living conditions in Makurdi are moderate, with basic services available, but candidates should be prepared for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security measures and the need for personal safety precautions. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to meaningful humanitarian efforts and engage with diverse communities in a challenging yet rewarding environment.