Advocacy and Communications Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• It assists refugees and internally displaced persons globally by providing emergency aid, advocating for their rights, and enhancing their opportunities for a better future. The organization operates in conflict-affected areas, along displacement routes, and in countries where refugees settle. DRC collaborates with local communities to pursue responsible and sustainable solutions, aiming for successful integration and, when possible, facilitating the return of displaced individuals to their homes. With over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, DRC's vision is to ensure a dignified life for all displaced individuals, guided by values such as humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency.

Job Overview:
The Advocacy and Communications Advisor plays a crucial role in supporting DRC Afghanistan's strategic vision and programmatic goals through effective advocacy, external relations, and communications. This position is responsible for leading the development and implementation of advocacy strategies that promote DRC's humanitarian priorities and secure operational space. The advisor ensures that DRC's messaging is coherent, compelling, and aligned with organizational standards, targeting donors, policymakers, partners, and the wider public. The role encompasses both advocacy and communications, requiring a blend of strategic thinking, relationship-building, and communication skills to effectively represent DRC's mission and impact in Afghanistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Advocacy: Lead thematic and geographic advocacy initiatives aligned with DRC's country and global priorities. Produce high-quality advocacy products, including briefings, reports, talking points, and analysis. Develop, coordinate, and sustain relationships with key humanitarian, development, government, and donor stakeholders. Provide timely analysis and strategic advice on the humanitarian and political environment to inform advocacy priorities. Support and represent DRC in humanitarian coordination mechanisms, platforms, and donor forums, such as the Advocacy working group, Gender Coordination group, and Durable Solutions Working group. Facilitate internal alignment to ensure program teams integrate advocacy priorities into implementation. Work closely with HQ, Hub, and EU offices to ensure Afghanistan is actively represented and that all colleagues are well-informed on key priorities across all DRC levels.
• Communications: Develop and implement communication strategies that promote DRC's work and impact in Afghanistan. Produce high-quality communications materials, including media talking points, blogs, press releases, and social media content. Support crisis communications and reactive messaging as needed, coordinating closely with HQ communications teams. Enhance DRC's visibility and external engagement through media relations and advocacy campaigns.
• Capacity Building & Coordination: Provide training, coaching, and mentoring to program staff and partners on advocacy and communications best practices. Lead coordination efforts with other NGOs and partners for joint advocacy and messaging when appropriate. Monitor and evaluate advocacy and communications activities to measure impact and improve strategies.

Required Qualifications:
To be successful in this role, candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in humanitarian advocacy and communications, ideally with experience in protracted displacement and conflict settings. A strong knowledge of humanitarian principles, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, and coordination mechanisms is essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills in English, with knowledge of local languages considered an asset. Proven ability to work in complex, sensitive, and multi-stakeholder environments is required, along with the ability to synthesize complex information and present it in accessible formats. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence, negotiate, and build partnerships are also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in international relations, communication, social sciences, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and effective communication strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in humanitarian advocacy and communications, particularly in contexts involving protracted displacement and conflict. This level of experience is vital for navigating the challenges and dynamics of the humanitarian landscape in Afghanistan.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with full professional proficiency required for effective communication. Knowledge of local languages is considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The salary and conditions for this position will be in accordance with the DRC salary scale. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by submitting a cover letter and an updated CV, both in the same language and not exceeding four pages. It is important to note that applications consisting solely of a CV will not be considered.