Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

1. Background

IGAD is committed to regional initiatives that foster inclusive approaches, development responses, and the sharing of experiences and lessons learned in addressing protracted displacement. To this end, IGAD implements a project that support the implementation of the 2023 IGAD Policy Framework on Refugee Protection, which prioritizes the full and inclusive application of refugee protection principles outlined in international, continental, and regional instruments. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of member states in managing refugees, reduce the vulnerability of displaced persons and their host communities, ensure fair treatment standards, and facilitate the pursuit of durable solutions.

These efforts are a core component of the IGAD Support Platform and contribute to the implementation of the Global Compact for Refugees (GCR) and the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF), as outlined in the Nairobi Declaration and Plan of Action.

IGAD engages a refugee protection officer to support engagements in refugee management and asylum protection towards the implementation of the IGAD Policy Framework on Refugee Protection. The protection officer will enhance member states’ capacities in safeguarding the rights of refugees, promoting durable solutions, and ensuring compliance with international refugee protection standards.

2. Key Roles and Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance of The Refugee Management Project Coordinator, the Refugee Protection Officer will undertake the following tasks:

• Ensure effective implementation of the IGAD Policy Framework on Refugee Protection by supporting the development, adoption, and monitoring of policies at Member state level.
• Facilitate harmonization and alignment of national and regional policies with regional and international refugee protection standards.
• Strengthen the capacity of IGAD member states in refugee management and asylum protection through training programs, workshops, and technical assistance.
• Foster collaboration among IGAD member states, UN agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders through regular meetings, consultations, and joint activities to enhance cooperation and resource mobilization for refugee protection initiatives.
• Contribute to strengthening member country’s capacity for implementation of national legislations, policies and guidelines and the evaluation of operational performance through the development of relevant tools and approaches.
• Contribute to maintaining partnerships whole-of-government including local authorities as applicable, private sector, civil society, academia, development partners, regional organizations and other actors.
• Identify and respond to member states’ specific technical support needs on refugee management and asylum protection.
• Promote sharing of experiences and good practices by facilitating exchange visits between IGAD member states as well as between IGAD and other regions.
• Produce periodic reports for internal consumption and external and donor communication
• Perform any other duties that may be assigned by the Refugee Management Project Coordinator

3. Academic qualification, Professional experiences and Core Competencies required
   • Academic Qualification

• A minimum of Master’s in law, Refugee Law, International Law, political Sciences or International development or related field.
  • Professional Work Experience
• At least 5 years of experience in refugee protection, human rights or international humanitarian law.
• Knowledge of International Refugee and Human Rights Law and ability to apply the relevant legal principles.
• Overall knowledge of refugee dynamics in the IGAD region and a good understanding of regional approaches to addressing forced displacement.
• Experience with issues related to refugee and asylum protection.
• Working experience in projects funded by multilateral development partners.
  • Skills and competencies
• Working knowledge of policy analysis and development as well as project management, implementation and results-based monitoring.
• Knowledge of, and involvement in, refugee related programs implemented by regional and international organizations such as IOM, UNHCR, EU, African Union or other relevant partners are highly desirable
• Experience in establishing professional networks
• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
• Excellent drafting and reporting skills; communication and negotiating skills; and planning and organizational skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Must have above excellent computer literacy skills
  • . Language requirements

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French language is an added advantage.

4. Remuneration

Negotiable with IGAD salary scale and policy and based on applicant’s qualification and experience.

5. How to apply

Qualified applicants from IGAD Member States are eligible to apply.

Interested candidates should send their applications in PDF accompanied by cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, academic credentials, copy of passports/ ID cards biometric page and three reference persons including the last employer.

Applications should be sent by E-mail to the following addresses: recruitment@igad.int with subject line “IGAD-RPO”

Closing date for application will be on 8^th February 2025. Due to the large number of applications we expect to receive; only successful candidates who meet the required experience & qualifications for this position will be contacted. Contact: + 25321354050

 IGAD is an equal opportunity employer. Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Download the attached ToR document in PDF below 
Vacancy Announcement – IGAD RPO