Protection Officer - Local Policy and Advocacy
Overview
The Protection Officer - Local Policy and Advocacy plays a key role in supporting the implementation of human rights and advocacy activities within the Protection and Rule of Law program. This position combines legal aid provision with research, analytical, and advocacy functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and analyze legislative, regulatory, policy, and rule of law developments affecting conflict-affected populations.
- Prepare advocacy materials, analytical notes, and policy briefs.
- Maintain regular contact and collaboration with government authorities, local administrations, partner organizations, and civil society actors.
- Facilitate dialogue with formal and informal local community structures.
- Advocate with local authorities to ensure information on legal procedures is inclusive, clear, and widely accessible.
- Collaborate with local administrative bodies and IDP councils to co-develop systems for identifying, funding, and evaluating community-driven protection and advocacy initiatives.
- Participate in meetings, working groups, and coordination platforms.
- Draft reports on activities carried out.
- Conduct regular field visits within the area of responsibility.
- Participate in internal team meetings, training, and strategic planning processes.
- Support advocacy initiatives by providing examples of individual cases and data on systemic legal challenges.
- Organize and facilitate roundtables, workshops, and other events.
- Support capacity strengthening of lawyers, partners, social workers, and other professionals.
- Facilitate the collection and integration of implementing partners' field-level perspectives into IRC's advocacy priorities and initiatives.
- Maintain and regularly update a stakeholder map.
Required Experience
Previous experience in conducting local or national-level advocacy. Experience engaging with government authorities, local self-government bodies, civil society organizations, or coordination mechanisms. Experience in legal analysis, policy research, drafting analytical reports, advocacy products, or policy briefs preferred. Experience in organizing group events, training, workshops, or roundtable discussions.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Law required. Advanced studies or additional qualifications in human rights, public policy, advocacy, or related fields, or Attorney’s license are considered an asset.
