Registration Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization established to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on providing protection and assistance to those forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution. The organization is dedicated to saving lives and building a better future for displaced individuals, and it plays a crucial role in addressing complex humanitarian crises, such as the ongoing situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Job Overview:
The Registration Assistant position is part of a project aimed at delivering lifesaving assistance and facilitating solutions for individuals under UNHCR's mandate in North Kivu, particularly focusing on refugees who wish to return to their countries of origin. The role is based in Goma, a key operational hub in Eastern DRC, where the incumbent will support registration activities related to voluntary repatriation and engage in other registration-related and protection activities. The Registration Assistant will work closely with governmental and non-governmental partners and directly interact with individuals under UNHCR's mandate to ensure effective delivery of protection, assistance, and solutions. This assignment provides a valuable opportunity for a national UN Volunteer to gain hands-on experience in UNHCR’s field operations within a challenging humanitarian context, developing a solid foundation in registration and protection interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the Protection Officer, the Registration Assistant will be responsible for conducting registration interviews in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOP) and registration standards. The incumbent will assist in preparing relevant documents, including (pre-)manifests and voluntary repatriation forms (VRF), ensuring that refugees receive appropriate documentation. The Registration Assistant will respond to queries from refugees regarding UNHCR's registration procedures and their rights and entitlements, gather and enter information on voluntary repatriation into relevant databases, and maintain accurate records related to individual registration cases. Additionally, the incumbent will support the development and publication of information products related to voluntary repatriation, identify persons with specific needs, and provide support during voluntary repatriation border-crossing/return movements. Collaboration with protection staff and partners in delivering protection, assistance, and solutions is also a key responsibility, along with performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Registration Assistant position should possess a strong understanding of operations relevant to UNHCR, with technical capabilities or knowledge that is transferrable to UNHCR procedures and rules. The ideal candidate should demonstrate discretion, political sensitivity, and the ability to liaise and coordinate with various actors, particularly in senior positions. A high degree of autonomy, personal initiative, and resourcefulness are essential, along with the ability to manage information objectively and confidentially. The candidate should be responsive and client-oriented, with a commitment to the values and ethical standards of the UN and UNHCR.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Registration Assistant position typically includes a degree in social sciences, international relations, or a related field. Candidates with relevant experience in humanitarian work, refugee assistance, or protection-related roles may also be considered. A strong understanding of the socio-political context of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the challenges faced by refugees and internally displaced persons is highly beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in registration, protection, or humanitarian assistance, preferably within a UN or NGO context. Experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly refugees and internally displaced persons, is essential. Familiarity with data management and reporting systems, as well as experience in conducting interviews and assessments, will be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in challenging environments and under pressure.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the primary language spoken in Goma and the surrounding region. Knowledge of Swahili is also highly desirable, given its prevalence in the area. Proficiency in English may be beneficial for communication with international staff and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position is based in Goma, which is characterized by a volatile security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation due to ongoing conflicts and the presence of armed groups. Candidates should be prepared for the challenges of living and working in a complex humanitarian context, including potential physical hardships and limited access to certain amenities. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be aware of the need for strict adherence to security measures to ensure their safety.