Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) Specialist

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) Specialist
Location: Kabul
Country: Afghanistan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which is a leading UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, and it works collaboratively with various partners, including governments, NGOs, and civil society organizations, to achieve its goals. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to end preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The PSEAH Specialist will play a crucial role in leading the implementation of the inter-agency Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) program across Afghanistan. This position involves advising the Resident Coordinator/Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) and strengthening inter-agency systems for PSEAH. The Specialist will work closely with the PSEA Network, which connects over 300 organizations, to enhance victim support systems and ensure safe working conditions for aid workers. The role is vital for maintaining progress in protecting communities from exploitation and abuse while fostering accountability and a culture of safety and respect. The Specialist will also be responsible for developing and implementing strategies tailored to local contexts, coordinating risk assessments, and ensuring that PSEA principles are integrated across all operational levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PSEAH Specialist will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the implementation of the PSEA in-country program by assisting senior leadership in developing tailored strategies and coordinating the enhancement of the inter-agency PSEA Network.
• Conducting joint risk assessments to inform leadership about potential risks and vulnerabilities, guiding strategic decision-making.
• Coordinating the PSEA Network's activities, representing it in relevant coordination bodies, and working with regional bodies to establish sub-national systems.
• Strengthening PSEAH within UNFPA and its partners by developing action plans, raising funds, and ensuring compliance with core standards.
• Engaging with communities to gather perspectives on aid worker behavior and developing communication strategies to raise awareness about PSEAH.
• Establishing and maintaining an inter-agency Community-Based Complaints Mechanism (CBCM) to facilitate reporting and ensure community trust.
• Monitoring and evaluating PSEA activities, including managing allegations and maintaining aggregate data on SEA trends.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in gender studies, humanitarian affairs, human rights, law, social work, public health, development studies, or a related field. Additionally, they should have at least 7 years of relevant progressive work experience in areas such as PSEA, GBV, staff misconduct, risk management, or gender mainstreaming. Demonstrated expertise in SEA Risk Overview (SEARO) rollout, strong understanding of international development, and familiarity with the UN system and global coordination structures are essential. Proven ability to develop and implement PSEAH Action Plans, experience in capacity-building activities, and excellent communication skills are also required. Knowledge of data protection and confidentiality measures is important, and experience in UN integrated missions is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields such as gender studies, humanitarian affairs, human rights, law, social work, public health, development studies, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment in humanitarian contexts and for effectively implementing PSEAH strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant progressive work experience in areas related to PSEA, GBV, staff misconduct, risk management, or gender mainstreaming. Candidates should have a demonstrated track record of effectively rolling out SEA Risk Overview (SEARO) initiatives, conducting risk assessments, and implementing evidence-based programming. Experience in designing and facilitating capacity-building activities is also essential, along with a strong understanding of international development and humanitarian response frameworks.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UN system. Additionally, a working knowledge of another official UN language is desirable, which would enhance the Specialist's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and partners in the field.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. The selection and appointment process may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.