Community-Based Protection 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, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization works to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and it strives to promote durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Community-Based Protection Associate plays a crucial role within the Protection Unit of UNHCR, reporting to the Protection Officer or Community-Based Protection Officer. This position is designed to work closely with communities of concern, identifying the risks they face and leveraging their capacities to protect themselves and their families. The incumbent is expected to spend a significant amount of time outside the office, engaging with communities of persons of concern (PoC) to build and maintain networks that enhance protection planning and programming. The role involves supporting the development of a community-based protection strategy that is informed by consultations with PoC, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed. The Community-Based Protection Associate is also responsible for adhering to UNHCR's regulatory framework and core values, which include professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Community-Based Protection Associate include assisting functional units and senior management in integrating community-based approaches into protection strategies. The incumbent will maintain relationships with PoC and partners to stay informed about developments affecting the protection environment. They will work collaboratively with host communities to enhance national civil society involvement in the protection of PoC and develop community-owned activities addressing various concerns, including social, educational, and health issues. The role also involves conducting participatory assessments, planning and monitoring programs, building office capacity for community-based protection, and ensuring community understanding of UNHCR's commitment to accountability. The Community-Based Protection Associate will act as an interpreter, contribute to participatory analysis, and initiate sensitive interventions on protection issues. They will also prioritize individuals or groups for counseling, intervene with authorities on protection matters, and ensure compliance with global protection policies.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires 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 equivalent. Essential functional skills include proficiency in IT systems, knowledge of UNHCR administrative rules, and community-based protection principles. The candidate should possess strong communication skills, stakeholder management abilities, and capacity-building expertise. Familiarity with UNHCR learning programs and knowledge of the MSRP system is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma or a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Development, Human Rights, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">International Law, Social Work, or Political Science. Certifications in community development or social work are also beneficial. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the role, emphasizing the importance of understanding community dynamics and protection issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 3 years of relevant experience in community engagement, protection monitoring, and individual counseling. Experience working with forcibly displaced populations in conflict-affected areas is essential. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in participatory assessments and a sound understanding of child protection and gender-based violence standards. Experience coordinating with local authorities and civil society organizations is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in French (oral and written) is mandatory for effective community engagement and official coordination. Knowledge of local languages such as Bambara, Fulfulde, or Dogon is a strong asset for outreach and participatory work. Proficiency in English is desirable for internal coordination and reporting purposes.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS6 level and is temporary, with a target start date of February 1, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202

• The role is expected to be full-time and may involve working in challenging environments. The candidate must demonstrate a commitment to creating a safe and respectful workplace, free from harassment and discrimination. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UNHCR's policies and standards.