Senior Project Associate (Counter-Trafficking and Criminal Justice)

Senior Project Associate (Counter-Trafficking and Criminal Justice)

International Organization For Migration (IOM)

October 11, 2026November 12, 2026Vietnam
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 to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM's mission includes saving lives and protecting people on the move, driving solutions to displacement, and facilitating pathways for regular migration. The organization is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, providing services and advice to governments and migrants, and aims to better harness the full potential of migration while strengthening its support to people on the move.

Job Overview:
The Senior Project Associate (Counter-Trafficking and Criminal Justice) will play a crucial role in supporting IOM's efforts in Vietnam to enhance the country's response to counter-trafficking and criminal justice issues. This position involves coordinating and managing projects that focus on victim-centered, rights-based, and trauma-informed approaches. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations, to strengthen victim identification and protection systems, improve criminal justice responses to trafficking, and address emerging forms of trafficking. The role requires a strong emphasis on capacity development for law enforcement and judicial actors, as well as promoting evidence-based programming and knowledge management in line with IOM standards and national priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Project Associate include leading and coordinating the day-to-day implementation of counter-trafficking and criminal justice projects, which involves work planning, partner coordination, and monitoring of activities. The incumbent will research, compile, analyze, and present information on trafficking in persons and related issues to inform programming and advocacy efforts. Additionally, the role includes monitoring budget expenditures, coordinating financial and administrative aspects of projects, and planning capacity-building activities for government counterparts. The Senior Project Associate will maintain effective liaison with various stakeholders, prepare correspondence and reports, and contribute to the development of operational tools and training curricula. Supervising and providing guidance to reporting staff is also a key responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with five years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a High School diploma with seven years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Experience in supporting counter-trafficking, migrant protection, and criminal justice programming is essential, as is experience working with government counterparts and developing technical assistance programs. Knowledge of trafficking in persons and related issues is advantageous, as is experience in multi-stakeholder environments.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law. Candidates with a High School diploma must have additional years of relevant professional experience to qualify. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have received their education from recognized institutions.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in supporting counter-trafficking, migrant protection, and criminal justice programming, particularly in Vietnam or similar contexts. Candidates should have experience working with government agencies, law enforcement, and justice sector actors, as well as developing and delivering capacity-building programs and operational guidance. Experience in liaising with various stakeholders, including international organizations and civil society, is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Vietnamese is required for this position, both oral and written. All IOM staff members must be fluent in one of the organization's official languages, and proficiency in the required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve a contract duration that is subject to funding confirmation. The selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar positions for a period of 24 months. Appointment is contingent upon certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.
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