Protection Associate (Assessments and Referrals)

Protection Associate (Assessments and Referrals)

International Organization For Migration (IOM)

September 1, 2026September 1, 2026Libya
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, saving lives and protecting people on the move. The organization operates in numerous countries, providing services and advice to governments and migrants, and is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally. IOM has been active in Libya since 2006, focusing on humanitarian, stabilization, and migration management activities, and aims to strengthen national capacities in various areas related to migration governance and support for affected communities.

Job Overview:
The Protection Associate (Assessments and Referrals) plays a crucial role in the implementation of pre-departure activities in accordance with IOM procedures. This position involves assisting in the collection and processing of migrants' information in an orderly and timely manner before their departure, facilitating their return and reintegration process. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including governmental bodies, UN agencies, and civil society partners, to ensure that migrants receive the necessary assistance and protection. The Protection Associate will be responsible for conducting assessments, categorizing cases, and ensuring that all documentation is accurate and complete. This position is vital for maintaining the integrity of the migration process and ensuring that vulnerable migrants receive the support they need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Receive and process referrals from multiple entry points, including consoler support, detention centers, embassies, hotline, and other IOM units and receiving missions.
  • Conduct AVM screening activities for all received and referred migrants, supporting the accurate collection of biodata, documentation, and protection screenings in line with established SOPs.
  • Categorize cases into Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) or Assistance to Vulnerable Migrants (AVM), following established procedures for case classification and documentation prior to case processing.
  • Input and update assessments in MiMOSA with complete supporting documentation, photographs, and required country-specific forms, in line with established data entry procedures.
  • Review and verify paperwork for single-headed families to support eligibility and compliance checks with IOM requirements; upload all necessary documents to MiMOSA after cross-checking for accuracy.
  • Refer cases promptly and correctly to relevant IOM units or external partners (Medical, MHPSS, Specialized Protection, Consular Support), to support the provision of appropriate assistance.
  • Support timely and accurate follow-up on all referred cases using MiMOSA’s reporting functions, maintaining up-to-date records and documentation.
  • Arrange with the AVM unit for clearance of vulnerable cases prior to the handover of the Travel Ready cases, to further complete the VHR process.
  • Support the handover of all travel-ready cases to the VHR Pre-Departure Case Management Team only once required documentation have been completed. 1
  • Conduct field missions to embassies, detention centers, and other locations as required for assessments and assistance. 1
  • Maintain comprehensive and up-to-date case records for all assigned caseloads, including timely data entry and reporting support. 1
  • Maintain adherence to protection principles, confidentiality, and dignity throughout the assessment and referral process. 1
  • Participate in joint information sessions with migrants alongside UNHCR available assistance options, rights, responsibilities, and available services. 1
  • Follow the nationality-specific information-sharing requirements in terms of data collected, documented, and updated. 1
  • Keep track of all cases who have been provided information jointly with UNHCR, who has opted for IOM and who has opted for UNHCR, and support follow-up cases interested in returning to these countries and track completion of the required procedures. 1
  • Upload all records, signed forms, and requirements to MiMOSA for each case. 1
  • Conduct routine checks of cases prior to Travel Ready status, including review of documentation, assessments, and MiMOSA entries. 1
  • Support quality checks prior to handed over of travel-ready cases, including review of documentation, system entries, data, and referrals. 1
  • Support the handling and documentation of no-show cases, maintaining records related to travel documents through liaison with the Consoler Support Team. 2
  • Contribute to daily and weekly reporting by highlighting case quality indicators and documenting corrections made. 2
  • Perform other duties as assigned in line with the operational needs of the Migrant Protection Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in political or social sciences, Development Studies, Human Rights, International Relations, Law, or a related field from an accredited academic institution, along with three years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a high school diploma with at least five years of relevant working experience is acceptable. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates should demonstrate accuracy in handling and reporting data and possess strong computer skills, particularly in MS Office. Strong organizational and communication skills are also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as political or social sciences, Development Studies, Human Rights, International Relations, or Law from an accredited institution. Candidates with a high school diploma must have a minimum of five years of relevant working experience. The educational qualifications must be from accredited universities recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have a solid foundation in the principles and practices relevant to migration and humanitarian assistance.

Experience:
The position requires previous working experience with NGOs or international organizations, which is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate a strong ability to handle and report data accurately, showcasing their attention to detail and organizational skills. Experience in a similar role or environment will be beneficial, as it will equip candidates with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of migration management and protection.

Languages:
All IOM staff members are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages, which include English, French, and Spanish. For this specific position, fluency in both English and Arabic is mandatory. Additionally, a working knowledge of French is considered an advantage. The proficiency of the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates can effectively communicate in the necessary languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to funding confirmation, and any offer made to the candidate will depend on this. The selection process may also be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in a similar position for a period of 24 months. Appointment will be contingent upon certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, as well as meeting any residency or visa requirements and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background, or disabilities. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process and only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.