Kandahar Refugee Organization (KRO) is a national-level, non-political, non-profitable, non-governmental organization working for humanitarian and rehabilitation roots in Afghanistan. Further, KRO is an Afghan organization that is committed to the development of the local economy and building local capacity for sustainable development. Thus, we have an established specialized network in many provinces of the country in order to design, and implement related activities in the field of food security, research, capacity building, disaster management, and placement.

Job Summary:

The PSEA (Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse) Officer at Kandahar Refugee Organization (KRO) is responsible for leading the implementation and monitoring of PSEA policies and procedures across KRO’s operations in various provinces. This role is crucial in fostering a safe and respectful environment for all beneficiaries and staff, promoting awareness, and preventing sexual exploitation and abuse. As the primary contact for all PSEA-related matters, the officer will ensure compliance with relevant guidelines and regulations while creating an inclusive and secure environment for refugees and staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive PSEA strategy and action plan for KRO, aligned with organizational policies and international standards.
• Act as the focal point and primary contact for all PSEA-related issues within KRO, providing guidance, support, and advice to staff, beneficiaries, and partner organizations.
• Conduct regular training and awareness sessions on PSEA, ensuring all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities and the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
• Establish and maintain a confidential and secure reporting mechanism for incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring confidentiality, sensitivity, and appropriate follow-up actions.
• Coordinate and oversee investigations into reported incidents, ensuring a fair and impartial process, and collaborating with relevant departments and external agencies as required.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of PSEA measures within KRO, identifying areas for improvement and recommending appropriate actions to senior management.
• Regularly review and update PSEA policies, procedures, and guidelines to reflect evolving best practices and lessons learned, ensuring they are culturally sensitive and take into account the specific needs of refugee populations.
• Collaborate with relevant internal departments, external partners, and stakeholders to strengthen PSEA efforts, including information sharing, resource mobilization, and promoting good practices.
• Provide regular reports and updates on PSEA activities to senior management, including incident statistics, trends, and progress made in implementing PSEA initiatives.
• Stay informed about developments in the field of PSEA, participate in relevant trainings, workshops, and conferences, and share knowledge and insights with KRO staff and partners.

• Safeguarding Key Messages:

• KRO is committed to preventing sexual exploitation and abuse and protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.
• Everyone has the right to be treated with respect, free from harassment, exploitation, or abuse.
• By joining KRO, you commit to upholding our safeguarding principles and policies, including promptly reporting any concerns or incidents related to PSEA.
• We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards child exploitation and abuse.
• We have a confidential reporting mechanism for safeguarding concerns or incidents, ensuring seriousness and confidentiality.
• Thorough investigations are conducted into reported incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse, respecting the rights and well-being of all parties involved.
• Active participation and engagement of staff, volunteers, and stakeholders in creating a safe and inclusive environment is essential.
• By applying for this position, you consent to necessary background checks and screening processes.
• We maintain a strong commitment to integrity and anti-fraud measures, and employees are expected to adhere to our policies and report any suspicious activities or fraudulent behavior.
• Ensure adherence to PSEA policies and guidelines within all KRO operations.
• Support the development and dissemination of PSEA-related materials.
• Conduct training sessions for staff and partners on PSEA principles and practices.
• Raise awareness among beneficiaries about their rights and available reporting mechanisms.
• Establish and maintain confidential reporting mechanisms for incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of PSEA measures in the field, providing regular feedback and recommendations.
• Collaborate with other NGOs, UN agencies, and local authorities to strengthen PSEA efforts.
• Participate in relevant coordination meetings and represent KRO in PSEA-related forums.
• Assist in the management of reported cases, ensuring that survivors receive appropriate support and services.
• Maintain confidentiality and protect the dignity of survivors.
• Travel to KRO field offices in Zabul, Uruzgan, Helmand, and Herat to provide on-the-ground support.
• Conduct assessments and engage with local communities to identify and address PSEA-related issues.

• Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, human rights, international development, or related discipline. A master's degree is preferred.
• Proven experience of at least 5 years in the safeguarding or protection field, GBV, Gender equality and Child safeguarding with a specific focus on PSEA for at least 3 years. Experience in the humanitarian or refugee assistance sector is highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of PSEA principles, standards, and best practices, including international frameworks and guidelines.
• Strong understanding of gender equality, diversity, and inclusion principles and their integration into PSEA efforts in refugee settings.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to facilitate training sessions and deliver presentations on sensitive topics, adapting approaches to different cultural contexts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle confidential and sensitive information discreetly.
• Experience in conducting investigations and managing complex cases related to sexual exploitation and abuse is highly desirable.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently and as part of a team in a challenging and dynamic environment.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and the local language(s) is essential.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of PSEA principles and relevant legal frameworks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment and under pressure.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of local languages is a plus.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong commitment to ethical standards and integrity.
• Empathy and sensitivity toward issues faced by vulnerable populations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

The intersted applicants can submit thier application by clicking the apply option below.