Protection Assessment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) was launched in February 2016 as a multi-partner trust fund hosted by the UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office. The Fund is governed by a Global Steering Committee consisting of 12 members, including representatives from the UN, donors, and civil society organizations, which makes strategic decisions regarding the eligibility of countries and the Fund’s investments. The Secretariat of the Fund, hosted by UN Women, provides technical support to the Global Steering Committee and manages the Fund on a day-to-day basis. Since its inception, the WPHF has supported over 1,800 civil society organizations and more than 1,300 women human rights defenders (WHRDs).

Job Overview:
The position of Protection Assessment Specialist is crucial for conducting an internal review of the verification processes and protection approaches implemented by eight international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) that provide urgent protection support through the WHRDs Window’s Safety Net Stream. The consultant will be responsible for examining the entire process from the transfer of applications by WPHF through partner verification, protection support, and the completion of transfers to WHRDs. Additionally, the review will assess the partners’ capacity to manage current and future caseloads and will involve the development of an internal assessment tool in collaboration with WPHF for existing and prospective partners. The review will cover the period from 2022 to 2025, and the consultant will report directly to the WPHF WHRD Window Project Coordinator regarding all matters related to the consultancy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be expected to complete a total of 30 working days with the following duties and responsibilities:

• Prepare an inception report that outlines the proposed approach to the assignment, including objectives and expected outcomes.
• Develop a detailed methodology that encompasses document reviews, key informant interviews, and an analytical approach.
• Conduct a thorough review of the verification processes and protection approaches utilized by the INGOs.
• Assess the capacity of partners to manage current and future caseloads effectively.
• Collaborate with WPHF to develop an internal assessment tool for existing and prospective partners.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the WPHF WHRD Window Project Coordinator throughout the consultancy period.
• Ensure that all deliverables are completed within the agreed timeframe and meet the quality standards set by WPHF.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Protection Assessment Specialist position should possess a strong background in human rights, protection mechanisms, and advocacy, particularly in relation to women human rights defenders. They should have demonstrated experience in conducting assessments and evaluations in similar contexts, as well as a solid understanding of the challenges faced by WHRDs in crisis and conflict settings. Additionally, the candidate should have excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including civil society organizations and international partners.

Educational Background:
Candidates should hold at least a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as human rights, international relations, social sciences, or a related discipline. A Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree would be an advantage, particularly for those with a focus on gender studies or humanitarian assistance.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in the field of human rights, protection, or humanitarian assistance. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of women’s rights and advocacy, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the operational frameworks of INGOs and the specific challenges faced by WHRDs is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions where WHRDs operate, would be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is expected to be conducted remotely, allowing for flexibility in work hours. The total duration of the consultancy is 30 working days, and the consultant will be compensated according to the terms agreed upon with WPHF. The position is open to candidates from various backgrounds, and WPHF encourages applications from individuals with diverse experiences and perspectives.