Organization Mission

Guatemala is a country of asylum, origin, transit and return of refugees, asylum seekers and Guatemalans internally displaced, at risk of displacement or deported back to the country. The country currently hosts more than 4,800 refugees and asylum seekers; 530,000 internally displaced Guatemalans; and 90,000 deportees that returned to the country between 2024 and 2025.

Individuals with international protection needs, both Guatemalans and third country nationals, face barriers to exercise their rights and access services and are at risk of exploitation and violence which render their integration more difficult. Women, girls and LGBTIQ+ population are particularly vulnerable to gender-based violence.

UNHCR works with national and local authorities, as well as civil society to strengthen the asylum system, enhance capacity to locally integrate an increasing number of refugees in host communities and protect displaced Guatemalans. The CO located in Guatemala City is complemented by field presence in strategic locations.

Context

The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Government Liaison Associate and will perform a variety of functions related to issues and agendas involving support in the coordination with government authorities, United Nations system agencies, and other key stakeholders. The supervisor exercises close control and regular review of the work processes and provides regular advice and guidance.

The incumbent keeps frequent internal contacts with staff members to exchange information. Additionally, with guidance and support, the volunteer may support establishing contact with public officials at the technical level from both central and local government, as well as with

Key Responsibilities

In order to carry out this work, the UN Volunteer will be properly trained both formally, through available workshops, seminars, e-Learning platforms; and informally through on-the-job training, intensive coaching/mentoring, shadowing other colleagues to familiarize his/herself with the relevant global and local policy and procedures related to liaison activities.
The UN Volunteer will be closely supervised by both senior and middle-level management within the unit and it is expected that within a few months, s/he will have the necessary skills to carry out many of the daily tasks with limited guidance.Under the direct supervision of the Government Liaison Associate, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:- Draft routine correspondence and reports, prepare tables and draft corresponding text, prepare background material for use in discussions and briefing sessions. Collect, register and maintain information on the Government, local, and international developments which may have a political or operational impact on the office’s relationship with the Government. Systematize relevant information, maintain updated stakeholders’ mappings, and disseminate relevant information to an internal and external audience.
– Assist in administrative tasks as required, such as the preparation of reports and meeting authorized personnel, and assisting them during meetings, workshops, field missions, etc.
– Contribute to related liaison activities and respond directly to routine queries.
– Assist the supervisor in the preparation and facilitation of workshops, trainings, seminars, and other meetings.
– Collect and maintain information on statistics in regard to persons of concern.
– Support close working relations with the local authorities, governmental and non-governmental implementing partners and other external parties, providing co-operation and guidance if necessary.
– Support the management of the with Government partners to provide requested information and follow up on pending issues.
– Manage external queries and information flows by identifying and anticipating required action.
– Prepare reports and correspondence related to the office´s contacts and activities.
– Manage budget, when requested, including tracking expenditures.
– Act as interpreter and translator when needed.
– Perform other related duties as required.

As the role involves collecting and disseminating information, maintaining stakeholder mappings, and potentially dealing with politically sensitive topics, it is important that the UNV abides by confidentiality and neutrality principles.

Required Skills and Experience

Demonstrated interest or experience in:

– International refugee law and protection of displaced population.

Skills:

– Excellent oral and writing skills; accuracy and professionalism in document production.
– Excellent interpersonal skills; cultural and social sensitivity; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with partners.
– Ability to adapt professionally in a challenging environment and a multicultural (international and national) team.
– Computer literacy, MS Office; familiarity with database management and office equipment.
– Self-motivated, ability to work with tight deadlines.
– Demonstrated ability to handle information confidentially and securely, ensuring compliance with institutional data protection policies and ethical standards, particularly in contexts involving sensitive operational, contextual, or stakeholder-related data.

Core Competencies

– Accountability
– Adaptability and Flexibility
– Client Orientation
– Commitment to Continuous Learning
– Communication
– Ethics and Values
– Integrity
– Planning and Organizing
– Professionalism
– Respect for Diversity
– Working in Teams

Living Conditions

Guatemala City is a Family duty station rated as A. The city has very good infrastructure in general (health, housing, banking, transportation, telecommunications and recreational facilities). Guatemala City is well connected within the region via its international airport.

Accommodation is readily available, and everyone can find the accommodation best suiting their needs. Housing in zones where most of expats live may be expensive (1,200-2,000 USD for an apartment, 1,500-2,500 USD for a house per month, depending on location and equipment of the accommodation).

There are private and international schools, although the number of bilingual or bicultural schools is not so high, it is acceptable (education in main languages are available: Spanish, English, German, French).

Recreational activities are available while the associated cost may be high. Notwithstanding, the country offers plenty of opportunities for personal and family activities, ranging from visiting the beach to natural treasures and historical sites.

Most newly arriving expatriates face with some challenges of overcoming cultural and language barriers, depending on their culture. Guatemalans pride themselves as being generous hosts and overall, Guatemalan people are respectful and courteous. The Guatemalan society is diverse and unique and as such, cultural awareness is essential.
The climate in Guatemala City is very pleasant all year around, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 27 Celsius during the daytime.

Guatemala City is rated as security level 3 Moderate, with the main threat being common crime. Crimes range from armed robberies, drug trafficking-related crimes, rape, muggings and purse-snatching to petty theft. The statistics of crime and violence in Guatemala are among the highest in the region.

Guatemala offers the most favorable conditions for committing illegal acts, basically due to its poor rate of impunity, the great numbers of illegal weapons in circulation, and the lack of opportunities for the youth. Events related to natural phenomena in Guatemala, such as seismic events, intense rainfall, landslides, forest fires, volcanic eruptions and are regularly reported all over the country. For Central America it is strongly advised to exercise extreme caution and always maintain a high level of personal security awareness. Security briefing is provided by UNHCR Field Safety Service and UNDSS.