Protection Associate
Support implementation of UNHCR's solutions strategy for refugees.
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Overview
Support implementation of UNHCR's solutions strategy for refugees.
You have:
- Fluency in English and Tamil is essential, and knowledge of other local languages would be an advantage.
- Excellent English writing and editing skills
- Candidates having good knowledge of UNHCR’s protection mandate and operations will be an added advantage.
- Proven record in working with Government, private sector and NGOs on Self Reliance and livelihood activities is desirable.
- Excellent knowledge in ProGresV4, MS Word, Excel and database management.
- Attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
Hardship Level (not applicable for home-based)
U (unclassified)Family Type (not applicable for home-based)
No designationStaff Member / Affiliate Type
UNOPS LICA6Target Start Date
2025-07-01Deadline for Applications
May 27, 2025Terms of Reference
Operational Context
India currently hosts more than 261,000 refugees and asylum seekers. These include some 91,000 Sri Lankan refugees and 73,400 Tibetans directly assisted by the Government of India. There are 47,881 individuals registered under UNHCR’s mandate primarily from Afghanistan, Myanmar, and other countries. In addition, around 49,000 Myanmar nationals have sought refuge in the Northeast of India and live in a refugee-like situation. UNHCR works with the Government of India to offer protection and find solutions for refugees and asylum seekers.
As a result of reprioritization, UNHCR India is refocusing its efforts on three core objectives: mandate-critical protection and solutions work; lifesaving and emergency activities with a focus on the most vulnerable; and essential resource mobilization and advocacy for protection and inclusion.
With refugees and asylum seekers spread across 13 different locations across the country, UNHCR relies on its 8 NGO partners for support. It funds activities that complement or facilitate access to essential services and assist the most vulnerable people with humanitarian assistance. UNHCR also works with various partners and key stakeholders to advocate for greater inclusion of refugees and asylum seekers as part of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). The office is engaged in advocacy with the government to support the development of a national framework for refugee protection, and advocates on issues related to the use of alternatives to detention, access to documentation amongst other key areas. UNHCR’s office is in New Delhi and has a field presence in Chennai, Tamil Nadu State.
Desired Candidate Profile
The Protection Associate reports to the Head of the Field Office in Chennai, India and plays a key role in supporting the implementation of UNHCR’s comprehensive solutions strategy. A critical aspect of the role involves fostering an environment that enhances partnerships and strengthens the engagement of refugee communities and host populations in the design and implementation of durable solutions.
Key responsibilities include providing counselling to refugees and asylum seekers regarding their durable solutions options. This includes conducting interviews with candidates for voluntary repatriation and preparing the necessary documentation in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Voluntary Repatriation.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES
• Fluency in English and Tamil is essential, and knowledge of other local languages would be an advantage. • Excellent English writing and editing skills • Candidates having good knowledge of UNHCR’s protection mandate and operations will be an added advantage. • Proven record in working on working with Government, private sector and NGOs on Self Reliance and livelihood activities is desirable. • Excellent knowledge in ProGresV4, MS word, Excel and database management. • Attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines
• Strong organizational and time management skillsStandard Job Description
Required Languages
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Desired Languages
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Additional Qualifications
Skills
Education
Certifications
Work Experience
Other information
This position doesn't require a functional clearance Remote
No
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience working with refugees and how you have supported their integration? | This assesses the candidate's practical experience and empathy towards refugees. | Share an example that highlights your direct work with refugees and the impact of your efforts. |
| What strategies would you use to engage with local governments and NGOs in refugee support? | The interviewer wants to understand your approach to collaboration. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you prioritize tasks when working under tight deadlines? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe a situation where you had to navigate complex regulations or policies related to refugee protection. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What is your experience with database management and how do you ensure data accuracy? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you share an instance where you advocated for refugee rights? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you approach counseling refugees regarding their options for durable solutions? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What local languages do you have proficiency in apart from English and Tamil? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
Added 1 year ago
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Updated 1 year ago
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Source:
unhcr.org
