Protection Associate (LICA 6) – 4 Positions at UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Guatemala | Apply Now

 

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is currently inviting applications for four (4) Protection Associate (LICA 6) positions in Guatemala. This exciting opportunity is ideal for professionals passionate about humanitarian action, refugee protection, human rights, and supporting vulnerable populations affected by displacement, conflict, violence, and persecution.

As one of the world's leading humanitarian organizations, UNHCR plays a critical role in protecting and assisting refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and stateless individuals across the globe. The Protection Associate position offers candidates the opportunity to contribute directly to life-changing interventions while gaining valuable experience within the United Nations system.

Individuals with backgrounds in international relations, law, social sciences, human rights, migration studies, humanitarian affairs, and community development are strongly encouraged to apply for this highly rewarding career opportunity.

About UNHCR

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established in 1950 by the United Nations General Assembly to protect people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, violence, and human rights violations.

For more than seven decades, UNHCR has provided protection, assistance, and durable solutions for millions of displaced people worldwide. The agency works in over 130 countries and supports refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, and stateless individuals.

UNHCR's mission is centered on safeguarding fundamental human rights and ensuring that every person has the right to seek asylum and live in safety and dignity.

Position Overview

Job Title: Protection Associate (LICA 6)

Organization: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

Location: Guatemala

Number of Positions: 4

Contract Type: LICA 6

Sector: Humanitarian Affairs, Refugee Protection, Human Rights

The Protection Associate will support UNHCR's protection activities and help ensure that displaced populations receive the support, assistance, and legal protection they need. The role involves working closely with affected communities, government agencies, implementing partners, and humanitarian actors.

Understanding Protection Work at UNHCR

Protection is at the heart of UNHCR's mandate. It involves ensuring that refugees and other displaced individuals can safely access their rights and receive appropriate support services.

Protection activities may include:

• Refugee status determination support
• Legal assistance and counseling
• Case management services
• Child protection interventions
• Gender-based violence prevention and response
• Community-based protection programs
• Advocacy for refugee rights
• Monitoring protection risks and trends
• Support for asylum procedures
• Coordination with government authorities and partners

Protection Associates play a key role in helping UNHCR achieve these objectives and ensuring that vulnerable populations are treated with dignity and respect.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidates may be responsible for:

• Supporting implementation of protection programs and activities
• Conducting protection monitoring and assessments
• Providing information and referrals to persons of concern
• Maintaining accurate case management records
• Assisting with documentation and registration activities
• Supporting community outreach initiatives
• Preparing reports and protection updates
• Participating in coordination meetings with stakeholders
• Identifying protection concerns and recommending solutions
• Supporting advocacy and awareness activities

The role requires a strong commitment to humanitarian principles and protection standards.

Required Qualifications

Candidates are generally expected to possess:

• University degree in Law, Human Rights, International Relations, Political Science, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related disciplines
• Relevant professional experience in protection, humanitarian assistance, migration, refugee affairs, or community development
• Knowledge of international protection principles
• Experience working with vulnerable populations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in multicultural environments

Previous experience within the United Nations system or international NGOs may be considered an advantage.

Essential Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent communication abilities
• Case management experience
• Problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Cultural sensitivity and empathy
• Report writing and documentation skills
• Commitment to humanitarian values

These competencies are essential for working effectively in complex humanitarian environments.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Millions of people worldwide continue to face displacement due to conflict, violence, persecution, climate-related disasters, and other crises. Protection professionals are critical in ensuring that these individuals receive the assistance and legal safeguards they need.

By joining UNHCR as a Protection Associate, successful candidates will contribute to efforts that:

• Protect refugee rights
• Promote human dignity
• Support vulnerable communities
• Strengthen access to protection services
• Improve humanitarian response systems
• Enhance community resilience

This role provides a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives.

Career Benefits

Working with UNHCR offers numerous professional development opportunities, including:

• Experience within the United Nations system
• Exposure to international humanitarian operations
• Professional training and capacity development
• Opportunities for career advancement
• Global networking opportunities
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders
• Contribution to impactful humanitarian initiatives

The knowledge and experience gained can open doors to future careers in humanitarian affairs, international development, refugee protection, and human rights advocacy.

Who Should Apply?

This position is ideal for:

• Protection Officers
• Human Rights Professionals
• Refugee Assistance Specialists
• Community Development Officers
• Legal Aid Practitioners
• Migration Experts
• Social Workers
• Humanitarian Program Officers
• International Development Professionals

Individuals who are passionate about supporting displaced populations and advancing human rights should strongly consider applying.

How to Apply

For more details about the positions, please visit UNHCR’s careers website and use the following job ID when applying:

Chiquimula JR2666989

Alta Verapaz JR2666990

HuehuetenangoJR2666992

Guatemala CityJR2666965

Final Thoughts

The Protection Associate (LICA 6) positions at UNHCR Guatemala represent an outstanding opportunity for professionals seeking to build a career in humanitarian action, refugee protection, and international development.

By joining UNHCR, successful candidates will become part of a global mission dedicated to protecting vulnerable populations and promoting human dignity. If you possess the passion, skills, and commitment needed to support people affected by displacement, this opportunity could be the next important step in your humanitarian career journey.