Child Protection Officer

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Position Title: Child Protection Officer
Location: Juba
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established to support the country in its transition towards peace and stability following years of conflict. The mission's objectives include protecting civilians, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and supporting the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. UNMISS operates under a mandate from the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council and is committed to promoting human rights and the rule of law. The mission has a significant presence in South Sudan, with thousands of personnel deployed to various locations across the country, working collaboratively with local and international partners to address the ongoing challenges faced by the population.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Officer position within the UNMISS Child Protection Unit (CPU) is critical for addressing the protection needs of children affected by conflict in South Sudan. The officer will play a vital role in implementing the Comprehensive Action Plan aimed at preventing grave violations against children. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying protection needs, advising mission leadership, and ensuring that child protection is integrated into all aspects of the mission's activities. The officer will also be responsible for establishing a management database for information collected in the field and ensuring that child protection issues are prioritized in collaboration with various stakeholders, including UNICEF and other UN agencies. The role demands a strong commitment to the rights and well-being of children, as well as the ability to work in challenging environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Child Protection Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting training and awareness initiatives within the Child Protection Section; identifying and advising on the protection needs of children; establishing a management database for field information; ensuring that child protection issues are communicated to the Section leadership; assisting in mainstreaming child protection in all mission activities; collaborating with partners to address children's protection needs; providing training and guidance on child protection issues; supporting the implementation of mandated tasks related to children and armed conflict; coordinating mission-wide monitoring and reporting of grave violations against children; collecting reliable data and conducting investigations; developing analysis on trends of violations; reporting on child protection issues; engaging with national stakeholders to promote child protection policies; and maintaining partnerships with various experts and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Child Protection Officer position must possess a strong understanding of child protection issues, particularly in conflict settings. They should have experience in implementing child protection policies and programs, as well as a solid grasp of relevant UN Security Council resolutions. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and a commitment to the rights of children. Additionally, candidates should possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and be able to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Educational Background:
A university degree in social work, psychology, international relations, human rights, or a related field is required for the Child Protection Officer position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child protection or humanitarian assistance will be considered an asset. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of international human rights standards and child protection frameworks.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in child protection, humanitarian assistance, or related fields. Experience working in conflict-affected areas or with international organizations is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of successfully implementing child protection initiatives and collaborating with various stakeholders to address the needs of children in crisis situations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly local languages spoken in South Sudan, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
The Child Protection Officer position is based in Juba, South Sudan, and is classified as a non-family duty station. Candidates should be prepared for austere living conditions, including shared accommodations and limited access to amenities. The role may involve working in challenging environments with a high security risk. The UNMISS provides basic residential facilities, but candidates should be aware of the potential for water shortages and power outages. The mission operates under a tropical climate with a rainy season from April to October, and the ability to adapt to difficult living conditions is essential.