Protection of Civilians Officer (PoC Officer)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Policy and Best Practices Service of the Policy, Evaluation and Training Division (DPET) in the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) of the United Nations. The DPO is responsible for providing political and executive direction to UN Peacekeeping operations globally, maintaining contact with the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, troop contributors, and parties involved in conflicts. The DPET is tasked with developing and disseminating policies and doctrines that guide UN peacekeeping efforts, evaluating the application of these policies, and coordinating training to ensure effective implementation. The organization aims to integrate efforts from various UN and external partners to enhance peacekeeping operations.

Job Overview:
The Protection of Civilians Officer (PoC Officer) plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the protection of civilians mandate within UN peacekeeping missions. This position involves close collaboration with specialized protection experts and various UN offices to enhance the integration of protection strategies into mission planning. The PoC Officer is expected to develop, implement, and evaluate policies and strategies related to the protection of civilians, ensuring that these align with broader political strategies and peacebuilding efforts. The role requires a strong analytical capability to monitor and assess program development, identify challenges, and propose corrective actions. The PoC Officer will also engage in research, provide specialist inputs for training materials, and contribute to policy debates on protection issues, making this a dynamic and impactful position within the UN framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection of Civilians Officer will be responsible for a range of duties, including: assisting in the improvement of protection of civilians mandates in peacekeeping operations; developing and evaluating POC policies and strategies; monitoring program implementation; ensuring integration of POC into mission planning; conducting research and analysis; drafting reports and background papers; coordinating outreach activities; conducting training workshops; participating in field missions; contributing to budget preparation and reporting; and performing other related duties as required. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of protection mandates.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of peacekeeping operations and the challenges associated with implementing protection of civilians mandates. They should demonstrate professional competence and a commitment to achieving results, with the ability to analyze complex political and social issues. The role requires excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Candidates should also be able to incorporate gender perspectives into their work and ensure equal participation of all genders in peacekeeping efforts.

Educational Background:
A first-level or advanced degree in law, political science, international relations, or human rights is required. In lieu of an advanced degree, candidates with a Bachelor’s degree and two additional years of relevant work experience may be considered. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of international relations and the legal frameworks surrounding peacekeeping and human rights.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in the protection of civilians in armed conflict is required. Candidates should have experience in backstopping POC-mandated field missions, developing policy and guidance for POC, and engaging with Member States and intergovernmental bodies on POC issues. This level of experience is crucial for effectively navigating the challenges of the role and contributing to the UN's mission.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, also at UN Level III proficiency. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the UN Secretariat and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available from August 18, 2026, to June 30, 2027, with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that this temporary assignment does not guarantee future employment in the same role. The position may be limited to internal candidates and is subject to funding availability. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Additionally, applicants from under-represented Member States are strongly encouraged to apply. The UN Secretariat maintains a non-smoking environment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.