Protection Intern

Job Posting Organization:
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. Established in 1950, UNHCR has been operational for over 70 years, working in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing international protection to refugees and coordinating responses to refugee crises, ensuring that the rights and needs of displaced individuals are met. UNHCR has been active in Poland since 1992, collaborating with national authorities and various stakeholders to address refugee-related matters, particularly in light of the ongoing refugee situation from Ukraine and other regions.

Job Overview:
The Protection Intern position at UNHCR in Warsaw offers a unique opportunity for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in legal protection response within the UN system. The intern will be part of the Protection Unit, specifically within the Legal and Policy Team, and will work under the supervision of the Associate Protection Officer. The role involves responding to inquiries from asylum-seekers, refugees, and stateless persons, providing guidance and support in accordance with established protection procedures. The intern will also engage in monitoring legal and policy developments that impact the protection environment for displaced individuals in Poland. This internship is designed for those who are dynamic, proactive, and eager to contribute to the protection of vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: responding to individual protection-related inquiries via email, utilizing established templates and guidance; assisting in the drafting of community communication materials such as FAQs; documenting protection trends by monitoring national and EU policy developments; providing administrative support to the Protection Unit, including meeting coordination and preparation of background materials; contributing to reception and detention monitoring activities; and performing other related duties to support the effective functioning of the Protection Unit. The intern will play a crucial role in ensuring that the office can deliver timely and effective protection interventions for displaced persons.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Protection Intern position should meet the following qualifications: they must be current students or recent graduates from a university or higher-education institution accredited by UNESCO, having completed at least two years of undergraduate studies in law. Excellent communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and sound negotiation skills are essential. Fluency in English and Polish is required, along with strong writing and editing capabilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is necessary, and candidates should demonstrate a genuine motivation to learn and contribute to protection work. Organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively are also important.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes at least two years of undergraduate studies in law from an accredited institution. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the legal frameworks and policies that govern refugee protection and asylum processes.

Experience:
While prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in refugee law and protection issues. Any relevant volunteer work, internships, or academic projects related to legal studies or humanitarian work will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Polish is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an advantage, as it can enhance communication with diverse populations and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position lasting six months, with the possibility of a two-month extension. The working hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Interns are responsible for their travel, visa, and residence permit costs. The internship includes a Food and Local Transportation Allowance (FLTA) if the intern is not sponsored by an outside party. UNHCR promotes diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.