Humanitarian Access Working Group Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year. The organization is committed to protecting the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the necessary support and resources to rebuild their lives. NRC Afghanistan, in particular, has been active in the region since the Taliban takeover in August 2021, focusing on addressing the complex humanitarian needs of the population.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Access Working Group Coordinator will play a pivotal role in leading and coordinating the Humanitarian Access Working Group (HAWG) in Afghanistan. This position requires a seasoned leader with a strong background in humanitarian access, advocacy, and negotiation. The Coordinator will be responsible for fostering collaboration among various humanitarian actors, ensuring compliance with humanitarian principles and international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law, and developing strategic guidance for the Humanitarian Country Team. The role involves representing the HAWG to donors, authorities, and stakeholders, as well as coordinating efforts to address emerging access issues across different clusters and working groups. The Coordinator will also oversee the development and execution of the HAWG workplan, ensuring that collective outcomes are achieved in a challenging operational environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and strategic direction to the Humanitarian Access Working Group.
• Act as the primary focal point for NGOs within the HAWG.
• Co-lead the Humanitarian Access Working Group, ensuring effective collaboration among humanitarian actors.
• Offer humanitarian advocacy and negotiation support to facilitate access.
• Promote compliance with humanitarian principles and international humanitarian law.
• Review and revise the Humanitarian Country Team Access Strategy and related engagement strategies.
• Develop and execute the Humanitarian Access Working Group workplan, ensuring alignment with humanitarian needs.
• Monitor the implementation of guidance and advisory initiatives.
• Represent the HAWG in discussions with donors, authorities, and other stakeholders. 1
• Coordinate efforts to address emerging access issues across various coordination platforms, including clusters and NGO fora.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in conflict/post-conflict humanitarian work, particularly in volatile environments. They should have technical knowledge of humanitarian access and experience managing and advising on access dilemmas that hinder effective humanitarian assistance. Familiarity with industry access tools, resources, and methodologies is essential, along with a solid understanding of humanitarian principles. Candidates should also have experience in drafting and implementing policy and strategic guidance, as well as strong analytical, coordination, and stakeholder management skills. Exposure to high-risk, insecure, and complex contexts is crucial, along with knowledge of the Afghan humanitarian community response.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian access or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in humanitarian access coordination, ideally with a focus on complex emergencies. Experience in leading forums or working groups, as well as a proven track record of navigating challenging operational environments, is essential. Familiarity with the Afghan context and the humanitarian response landscape is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Afghanistan would be an advantage but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kabul, Afghanistan, with a contract duration of 12 months. The role may require approximately 10% travel. The position is classified as Grade 9 in NRC’s International Salary Scale, which includes a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and individuals from diverse backgrounds. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, encouraging all employees to share ideas and take responsibility.