Associate Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1950 with the mission to protect refugees and stateless persons worldwide. With a staff of over 15,000 people operating in 130 countries, UNHCR has provided assistance to millions of individuals, helping them restart their lives. The organization focuses on delivering lifesaving assistance, protection, shelter, food, clean water, education, and medical care to vulnerable populations. UNHCR also facilitates the safe return of refugees to their home countries and assists with their integration into local communities or resettlement to third countries when necessary. The agency collaborates with numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) globally to enhance the protection and assistance provided to refugees and internally displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The Associate Protection Officer position is critical in supporting UNHCR's protection strategy in Mexico City, which is a key operational hub for the agency's response to complex displacement dynamics in the region. The role involves delivering core protection activities in line with UNHCR policies and principles, particularly focusing on Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD). The officer will be responsible for monitoring and analyzing protection risks, providing counseling and referrals, and ensuring access to asylum procedures for refugees, asylum-seekers, returnees, and internally displaced persons. This position is essential for safeguarding fundamental rights and effectively implementing UNHCR's protection mandate in Mexico, especially during a time of increased need and limited resources.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Protection Officer will undertake various tasks under the supervision of the Senior Protection Officer, including: supporting the implementation of UNHCR’s protection strategy; contributing to protection monitoring and analysis by collecting and synthesizing information on protection risks; managing individual protection cases, including registration and referrals; providing guidance on access to asylum procedures; strengthening coordination with government and civil society partners; contributing to community-based protection approaches; monitoring partner activities and protection indicators; preparing reports and updates on protection trends; promoting the mainstreaming of protection across UNHCR interventions; and engaging with relevant stakeholders as required. Additionally, the officer will participate in UNV activities and promote local forms of volunteerism.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate Protection Officer position should possess strong analytical and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. They should have a solid understanding of international protection principles and the ability to apply them in practice. The role requires a commitment to accountability, adaptability, and client orientation, as well as the ability to build trust and maintain professionalism in all interactions. The candidate should also exhibit creativity and integrity in their approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Educational Background:
A university degree in law, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required for the Associate Protection Officer position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in protection, human rights, or refugee law would be advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in protection, human rights, or related fields. Experience working with refugees or in humanitarian settings is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing protection cases and engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government entities and civil society organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, given the operational context in Mexico. Proficiency in English is also required, as it is essential for communication with international partners and stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly indigenous languages or other regional languages, would be considered an asset and could enhance the candidate's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Mexico City, which is classified as a Category A family duty station. The role is full-time and may involve some travel within the country. Candidates should be aware of the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in Mexico City, which, while generally safe for UN personnel, does require vigilance due to common crime concerns. The UNHCR offers competitive compensation and benefits, including health care and support for relocation.