UN Volunteer - AAP/PSEA Coordinator

Job Advertisement

Position Title: UN Volunteer - AAP/PSEA Coordinator
Location: Suva
Country: Fiji
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) was established in 1999 with the mission to mobilize and coordinate effective humanitarian action in partnership with national and international actors. OCHA Pacific focuses on the Pacific region, which is known for being one of the most disaster-prone areas globally, characterized by small, vulnerable island states that face frequent and intense disasters. The organization aims to support national efforts to protect the lives, livelihoods, and dignity of people in need, ensuring that international assistance is mobilized only when requested by the affected governments. OCHA maintains a surge support capacity to establish quick links with affected countries, utilizing its staff, the UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) system, and partnerships with various humanitarian organizations. OCHA's personnel provide support in various areas, including information management, reporting, mapping, media and communications, assessments, humanitarian financing, and inter-cluster coordination, allowing for flexible and appropriate responses to assistance requests across the Pacific region.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer in this position will play a crucial role in implementing the IASC Collective AAP (Accountability to Affected Populations) Framework within the Pacific Region. This role is essential for ensuring that humanitarian responses are accountable to affected populations and free from sexual exploitation and abuse. The UNV will develop the AAP/PSEA (Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse) portfolio for the Office of the Pacific (OoP) and the Pacific Humanitarian Team (PHT). The position involves strategically integrating AAP/PSEA principles within the existing coordination structure of the PHT, which includes 10 clusters and various working groups. The UNV will analyze current coordination mechanisms to identify optimal entry points for embedding AAP/PSEA principles and ensuring they are operationalized effectively across all relevant parts of the coordination structure. This role requires a proactive approach to community engagement and feedback mechanisms, ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable populations are heard and acted upon.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the head of operations. Key responsibilities include establishing a mechanism for AAP/PSEA within the Pacific Humanitarian Coordination Structure, conducting assessments of existing AAP/PSEA capacities, and determining the best format for an inter-agency network focused on AAP/PSEA. The UNV will organize and facilitate AAP/PSEA working group meetings, collaborate on training for the humanitarian community, and support the operationalization of the IASC AAP Framework. Specific tasks related to PSEA include promoting awareness materials, participating in relevant meetings, liaising with global PSEA bodies, advocating for SEA prevention measures, and providing inputs for inter-agency strategic documents. For AAP tasks, the UNV will support the creation of a Community Feedback and Complaint Mechanism (CFCM), map existing mechanisms, draft Standard Operating Procedures, guide PSEA focal points, and analyze trends in SEA data. The volunteer is expected to ensure high-quality assistance to the PHT and its beneficiaries, including regular reporting on progress and issues.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess strong analytical and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multi-stakeholder environment. Experience in humanitarian response, community engagement, and knowledge of AAP/PSEA principles are essential. The ideal candidate should have a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure in a dynamic environment. Familiarity with the Pacific region's humanitarian context and challenges is highly desirable, as is experience in training and capacity-building initiatives.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, international relations, humanitarian studies, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas related to AAP/PSEA, protection, or humanitarian response will be considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to humanitarian principles and a strong understanding of the rights of affected populations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in humanitarian work, particularly in roles related to accountability, protection, or community engagement. Experience working with inter-agency coordination mechanisms and familiarity with the IASC AAP/PSEA Framework will be advantageous. Previous experience in the Pacific region or similar contexts is preferred, as is experience in training and capacity-building for humanitarian actors.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in the Pacific region would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role under the UN system, and the duration of the contract is typically for a specified period, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The role is full-time, and the volunteer will be expected to engage actively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations. Compensation and benefits for UN Volunteers may include a monthly stipend, health insurance, and other allowances as per UN policies. The position may involve travel within the Pacific region to support field missions and community engagement activities.