Protection Officer job at International Rescue Committee (IRC)
About the Organization
The International Rescue Committee is a global humanitarian aid, relief, and development nongovernmental organization.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. The International Rescue Committee provides vital support to Ugandans who are rebuilding from decades of war while hosting a growing influx of refugees from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (www.rescue.org) is a world leader in relief, rehabilitation and post-conflict development services for those uprooted or affected by violent conflict and oppression. The IRC is currently working in over 40 countries around the world, addressing both the immediate and lifesaving needs of conflict affected people in emergencies and the reconstruction needs of post-conflict societies.
The IRC began programming in northern Uganda in 1998 in response to mass displacement and devastation wrought by rebel group, the Lord’s Resistance Army. In 2002, the IRC expanded to the remote, conflict-affected region of Karamoja and in 2011, began working with refugees in Kampala. Monitoring the influx of South Sudanese refugees at the end of 2015, the IRC began scaling up its response to refugees arriving in the West Nile region. By promoting durable solutions that deliver on the interdependent aims of saving lives, strengthening institutions, and supporting social cohesion, the IRC in Uganda is laying the building blocks for long-term stability and development –bringing people from harm to home. The IRC currently works in 9 districts in Uganda, including Kitgum, Lamwo, Kyegegwa, Moroto, Amudat, Yumbe, Arua, Kasese and Kampala.
Job Description
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 50 countries and more than 25 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.
Background/ IRC Summary
Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (www.theIRC.org) is a world leader in relief, rehabilitation, and post-conflict development services for those uprooted or affected by violent conflict and oppression. The IRC works in over 40 countries around the world, addressing both the immediate and lifesaving needs of conflict affected people in emergencies and the reconstruction needs of post-conflict societies. The IRC has been working in Uganda since 1998 supporting IDPs, refugees and various institutions in the country notably the government, community-based organizations, the civil society, and the private sector. The current program portfolio in Uganda includes health and nutrition, support to persons with specific needs (PSNs) including case management, legal assistance to refugees, prevention, and response to gender-based violence, and economic recovery and development. IRC Uganda has its head office in Kampala, with field offices in Kyegegwa, Lamwo, Kiryadongo, Karamoja, West Nile regions, Kampala for urban Refugee Program.
Job Overview/Summary:
The Protection Officer will be responsible for providing direct support for the implementation of protection monitoring, protection case management and follow ups, operating Information and Support Centers (ISCs); Persons of Specific Needs a (PSNs) identification and support. She/he will supervise the activities of Protection Assistants in the field to ensure timely and successfully implementation.
Duties and Responsibilities
Conducts protection information and awareness sessions (community dialogues).
Collaborates with the legal team, SGBV, health, and ERD sectors of IRC and other agencies in providing protection related services to refugees and Persons of Concern (PoC
Ensures service mapping is complete and continuously updated; referral pathway established and follow up of cases conducted by protection team.
Liaise with and refer all legal related cases to the legal team for redress.
Supervises Protection Assistants to effectively carry out their roles.
Ensure protection case management is done according to established standards while respecting the principle of confidentiality.
Supports Volunteers in their integration and support to the desk and team.
Oversees PSN needs assessments and provide appropriate responses ‐ targeted assistance as necessary.
Conduct regular monitoring and report on the welfare and living conditions of PSNs in the settlement.
Ensure protection team manages information according to established procedures and respects principles of confidentiality.
Ensure good coordination with refugee leadership structures (RWCs and Neighborhood watch) and appropriate support provided.
Appropriately refer protection incidents/events to UNHCR, OPM and relevant partners.
Participate in Zonal Coordination meetings involving UNHCR, OPM and all partners operating in the Zone.
Prepare daily/weekly/monthly reports and timely submit to Deputy Protection Manager for review and further actions.
Qualification, Experiences and Competencies
Education:
A bachelor’s degree in social work, human rights, international relations, law, or a related field. A master’s degree is often preferred.
Experience:
Several years of experience in protection work, human rights, social work, or a related field.
Experience working in conflict-affected or humanitarian settings is often required.
Skills:
Strong understanding of protection principles, human rights, and international humanitarian law.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage complex cases and provide appropriate support.
Strong analytical and report-writing skills.
Proficiency in relevant languages may be required, depending on the location.
Personal Qualities:
High level of empathy, integrity, and professionalism.
Ability to work in challenging and potentially dangerous environments.
Strong commitment to the principles of humanitarian aid and human rights.
How to Apply
APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION MUST BE DONE ONLINE:
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