Associate Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (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. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and it strives to promote solutions for refugees and displaced persons, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement.

Job Overview:
The Associate Protection Officer position is a critical role within the Legal Protection Unit of UNHCR, specifically focused on addressing the protection needs of refugees and stateless persons in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. This role involves working closely with various protection units and requires a strong background in field protection experience. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and improving systems for protection case management, providing coaching and specialized training to staff, and conducting legal research relevant to the operation. The Associate Protection Officer will also support the implementation of protection strategies that enhance the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of refugees, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges faced by the Rohingya refugee population. The position demands excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a complex inter-agency context.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Protection Officer include staying informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments affecting the protection environment; promoting international and national law related to forcibly displaced persons; providing legal advice and guidance on protection issues; conducting eligibility and status determinations; managing individual protection cases; and overseeing the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for protection activities. The incumbent will also be responsible for recommending durable solutions for refugees, facilitating participatory assessments, and promoting community-based approaches to protection. Additionally, the Associate Protection Officer will engage with national authorities and NGOs to strengthen protection-related legislation and procedures, and ensure compliance with global protection policies and standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong professional background in refugee protection, internal displacement, human rights, or international humanitarian law. A good knowledge of international refugee and human rights law is essential, along with the ability to apply relevant legal principles. The position requires excellent communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a flexible approach to problem-solving. Familiarity with the operationalization of the civilian and humanitarian character of asylum and camps principle is considered an asset. The candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to the core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an undergraduate degree in Law, International Law, Political Science, or a related field. A graduate degree or doctorate in a relevant area is preferred, with additional years of relevant experience considered in lieu of advanced degrees. Candidates should have a solid understanding of legal frameworks and principles related to refugee protection and human rights.

Experience:
The Associate Protection Officer position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree, two years for those with a graduate degree, or one year for candidates with a doctorate. Experience in field operations, particularly in refugee protection, resettlement, and protection case management, is essential. Candidates should also have experience in providing training and conducting legal research and advocacy.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also necessary. Additional language skills may be advantageous but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS IICA1 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is March 1, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, particularly given the ongoing humanitarian situation in Cox's Bazar. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment and must demonstrate the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges.