Community Liaison (UN Volunteer)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) was established on December 14, 1950, by the UN General Assembly. Its mission is to lead and coordinate international efforts to protect refugees and resolve refugee-related issues globally. The agency's primary objective is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR also facilitates voluntary return, local integration, or resettlement in a third country for refugees. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff dedicated to humanitarian efforts and refugee protection.

Job Overview:
The Community Liaison position is a United Nations Volunteer (UNV) role that is integral to UNHCR’s community-based protection team. The incumbent will primarily contribute to various UNHCR programs in collaboration with partners across multiple locations in Morocco, including Oujda, Fès, Tanger, Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, and Agadir. The role involves direct fieldwork, where the Community Liaison will be stationed at one of UNHCR's partner organizations on a part-time basis. Key functions include informing and referring refugees and asylum-seekers to available services, facilitating awareness-raising activities within communities, conducting outreach visits, and participating in campaigns and information sessions organized by UNHCR and its partners. The Community Liaison is also responsible for submitting regular activity reports and ensuring that all interventions align with UNHCR standards and policies, particularly regarding Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) integration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Community Liaison will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: identifying vulnerable cases within the community and providing necessary referrals and support; recognizing children at risk and ensuring urgent referrals to child protection services; assisting refugees and asylum seekers in obtaining UNHCR documentation; ensuring that cases are managed effectively by partners and state structures; and engaging with families and communities to provide essential information and support. The incumbent is also expected to participate in community engagement activities, promote volunteerism, and contribute to the UNV program by documenting experiences and participating in UNV events. Regular reporting on activities and achievements is required, ensuring that all actions are client-oriented and uphold the dignity and respect of persons of concern.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to teamwork and respect for diversity. They should possess excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment, and a strong commitment to gender equality. The role requires adaptability, flexibility, and a genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement. Candidates should also have the ability to manage information confidentially and accurately, and to communicate effectively with diverse groups.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, candidates are generally expected to have a background that supports their understanding of humanitarian work, community engagement, and the principles of refugee protection. Relevant training or education in social sciences, international relations, or a related field would be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in community engagement, social work, or humanitarian assistance. Experience working with refugees or vulnerable populations is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively, as well as a willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic and French is mandatory, as these are the primary languages used in the region. Proficiency in English is also advantageous, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time national UN Volunteer assignment, with an expected commitment of approximately 20 hours per week. The volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. Compensation includes an entry lump sum equivalent to 50 USD, a volunteer leaving allowance of 2635.85 MAD, access to UNV learning resources, and annual leave of 2.5 days per month. Comprehensive health, life, and malicious acts insurance coverage is provided for the UN Volunteer.