Associate Protection Officer (Statelessness)

Contract

This is a UNV International Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as International UN Volunteer. It is normally internationally recruited only. More about UNV International Specialist contracts.

The Office of the UNHCR was established on 14 December 1950 by the UN General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or to resettle in a third country (www.unhcr.org).

The Associate Protection Officer (Statelessness) is expected to coordinate quality, timely and effective protection responses to the needs of populations of concern, ensuring that operational responses in all sectors mainstream protection methodologies and integrate protection safeguards.

He/she contributes in designing a comprehensive strategy on statelessness and in representing the organization externally on protection doctrine and policy as guided by the supervisor.

He/she also ensures that persons of concern are involved with the Office in making decisions that affect them, whether in accessing their rights or in identifying appropriate solutions to their problems. To achieve this, the incumbent will need to build and maintain effective interfaces with communities of concern, authorities, protection and assistance partners as well as a broader network of stakeholders who can contribute to enhancing protection.

Develop Public Information (PI) materials to raise awareness of issues related to statelessness.

Work with UNHCR’s field offices and implementing partners to gather information on populations of concern and conduct legal and protection interventions as appropriate.

Complete a comprehensive analysis of the legal framework on nationality. Identify legal and procedural obstacles to acquisition of nationality and formulate appropriate recommendations to prevent and reduce statelessness.

Undertake regular field missions to examine the legal and protection situation of populations of concern.

• Integrity and professionalism • Accountability: mature and responsible; ability to operate in compliance with organizational rules and regulations. • Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment. • Planning and organizing • Teamwork and respect for diversity • Communication • Flexibility, adaptability, and ability and willingness to operate independently in austere, remote and potentially hazardous environments for protracted periods, involving physical hardship and little comfort, and including possible extensive travel within the area of operations; willingness to transfer to other duty stations within area of operations as may be necessary; • Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment towards the UN core values.

Minimum 4 years (2 years with advanced University degree) of relevant professional experience.

Strong substantive knowledge of the issue of statelessness, including the causes and consequences of statelessness, international standards, and domestic nationality law.

Prior experience working with populations of concern to UNHCR is an asset.

Prior experience working on Statelessness in the region with a solid understanding of the national law of the country and birth registration/documentation is an asset.

Prior specialized experience working on the issue of statelessness.

Proven experience working with counterparts and implementing partners, including civil society groups, Government, and other UN agencies is an asset.

Computer literate; proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, etc); knowledge of publishing software an asset.

N’Djamena is an expensive city. Finding good accommodations remains a challenge. However, there are several supermarkets where local and foreign goods are available and expatriates frequent a few restaurants offering Lebanese, Chinese, French and other foods. R&R every 8 weeks.

Chad is a country with a high incidence of malaria. The use of mosquito nets is strongly recommended. Vaccination from yellow fever is compulsory. Other vaccinations such as meningitis and hepatitis B are also recommended. Basic medicines are available in pharmacies, but it is recommended to bring your specialized medicines.