Senior 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 closely with governments, civil society, and other partners to ensure that everyone can exercise their right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR's work is guided by law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and the principles of humanity, neutrality, and impartiality, aiming to ensure that every person has access to safety, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Associate plays a crucial role within the Protection Unit of UNHCR in the Philippines, reporting directly to the Head of the National Office. This position is pivotal in ensuring that asylum seekers, refugees, stateless persons, and populations at risk of statelessness can access necessary protection mechanisms and services. The Senior Protection Associate is responsible for monitoring national and regional legal developments, preparing legal analyses, and providing evidence-based recommendations to inform UNHCR's advocacy efforts. The role also involves leading coordination with national counterparts on ASEAN-related protection issues and ensuring alignment with national positions and regional dialogues. The Senior Protection Associate is expected to uphold UNHCR's values and perform duties in compliance with UN principles and policies, contributing to the organization's mission of protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Protection Associate's duties and responsibilities include staying informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments affecting the protection environment; applying international and national law and UN/UNHCR policies; providing guidance on protection issues; conducting eligibility and status determination for persons of concern (PoC); contributing to measures to prevent and reduce statelessness; and assisting in the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for protection activities. The role also involves managing individual protection cases, monitoring protection incidents, and identifying durable solutions for PoC. Additionally, the Senior Protection Associate will facilitate advocacy initiatives, manage information related to PoC, and assist in capacity-building efforts for authorities and NGOs. The position requires strong engagement with various stakeholders to strengthen national protection systems and ensure rights-based approaches across UNHCR's work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 4 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 computer skills, particularly in MS Office, excellent communication skills, and strong interpersonal abilities. Desirable qualifications include a strong knowledge of international and national human rights frameworks, proven experience in legal and policy development, and a solid track record in drafting legislation and policies. Experience in capacity-building initiatives and familiarity with UN agencies or rights-based organizations is also highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in International Law, Political Science, or a related field. Candidates should have relevant certifications and licenses that demonstrate their expertise in these areas. A strong academic foundation in human rights and protection standards is essential for success in this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience for those with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor's degree or higher. This experience should be in areas related to protection, human rights, or legal frameworks, demonstrating the ability to engage with government agencies, civil society, and other stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the duty station. Familiarity with other UN working languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the international context of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA7 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is March 1, 202

• The role is full-time and is open only to Filipino citizens or permanent residents with legal authorization to work in the Philippines. A competitive compensation and benefits package is offered, and candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline of March 16, 202
• UNHCR emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified female applicants to apply, ensuring equal career opportunities for all candidates.