Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration and Repatriation (DDRR) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), which was established in April 201

• The mission was authorized by the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council to address the security, humanitarian, human rights, and political crises in the Central African Republic (CAR). MINUSCA's primary mission is to protect civilians, support the transition process, facilitate humanitarian assistance, promote and protect human rights, and support justice and the rule of law. The mission has a significant presence with 11,650 military personnel and 2,080 police personnel, and it aims to create political, security, and institutional conditions that sustainably reduce the threat posed by armed groups. The organization operates in a challenging environment, focusing on disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and repatriation processes, and collaborates with various international partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration and Repatriation (DDRR) Officer will work under the direct supervision of a DDR team leader. The primary functions of this position include participating in DDR and community violence reduction field operations, contributing to research and analysis, and preparing analytical papers. The officer will also coordinate logistics for field missions and the repatriation of ex-combatants, organize interviews with ex-combatants and their dependents, and contribute to public information efforts related to DDR. The role requires active participation in monitoring and reporting on issues related to foreign armed groups and security, assisting in the preparation of high-level visits, and performing other DDR-related tasks as requested. The officer will also focus on capacity development for national staff and contribute to documenting lessons learned and best practices in DDR operations in the CAR. This position is crucial for supporting the CAR authorities in implementing inclusive and gender-sensitive DDRR programs and ensuring the successful reintegration of ex-combatants into civilian life.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the DDRR Officer include:

• Participating in DDR and community violence reduction field operations.
• Contributing to research and analysis of information and preparing analytical papers.
• Coordinating logistics arrangements for field missions and the repatriation of ex-combatants.
• Organizing interviews of ex-combatants and their dependents as needed.
• Contributing to DDR sensitization and public information efforts.
• Participating in and facilitating information-gathering, monitoring, and reporting on issues related to foreign armed groups and security in the area of responsibility.
• Assisting the team leader in the preparation of high-level visits.
• Performing other DDR-related tasks as requested by the team leader.
• Assisting the Director, Deputy Director, and other DDR staff at MINUSCA headquarters or on special missions as required. 1
• Setting aside dedicated time for capacity development through coaching, mentoring, and formal and on-the-job training when working with national staff or (non-)governmental counterparts. 1
• Contributing to documenting lessons learned and best practices in DDR operations in the CAR. 1
• Performing other related duties as required by the direct supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the DDRR Officer position include demonstrated expertise in the area of specialty, the ability to apply good judgment, and the capacity to work independently under established procedures in a politically sensitive environment. Candidates should possess strong organizational and problem-solving skills, the ability to manage a large volume of work efficiently, and the capability to establish priorities and coordinate their work. A mature and responsible attitude is essential, along with the ability to operate in compliance with organizational rules and regulations. Candidates should also demonstrate effective teamwork skills, respect for diversity, and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as the role may require operating independently in austere and potentially hazardous environments.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the DDRR Officer position should have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in social sciences, international relations, development studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, and additional training or certifications in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, or related areas would be advantageous. A strong understanding of the socio-political context of the Central African Republic and experience in DDR processes or humanitarian assistance would also be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of several years of relevant experience in disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and repatriation processes, or in related fields such as conflict resolution, peacebuilding, or humanitarian assistance. Experience working in challenging environments, particularly in post-conflict settings, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society organizations, and international partners.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of French is highly desirable, given the context of the Central African Republic. Additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in the Central African Republic, specifically in Bangui, which is classified as a non-family duty station due to the difficult security and working environment. The assignment is renewable on an annual basis, with a maximum duration of four years, contingent upon the mission's mandate, budget availability, operational necessity, and satisfactory performance. The living conditions in Bangui are challenging, with limited medical infrastructure, high costs of living, and security concerns. UN personnel are expected to comply with strict security instructions and may face restrictions on movement. The role requires a mature level of cultural and security awareness, as well as flexibility and the ability to work in harsh conditions.