Disaster Risk Management Intern

Organizational Context

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, with a network of 191-member National Societies (NSs). The overall aim of IFRC is “to inspire, encourage, facilitate, and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian activities by NSs with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.”  IFRC works to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people before, during and after disasters, health emergencies and other crises.

IFRC is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement), together with its member National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The work of IFRC is guided by the following fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.

IFRC is led by its Secretary General, and has its Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. The Headquarters are organized into three main Divisions: (i) National Society Development and Operations Coordination; (ii) Global Relations, Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalization; and (iii) Management Policy, Strategy and Corporate Services

IFRC has five regional offices in Africa, Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa, Europe, and the Americas.  IFRC also has country cluster delegations and country delegations throughout the world. Together, the Geneva Headquarters and the field structure (regional, cluster and country) comprise the IFRC Secretariat.

IFRC has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment and other forms of harassment, abuse of authority, discrimination, and lack of integrity (including but not limited to financial misconduct). IFRC also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. 

Job Purpose

Under the supervision of the Disaster Risk Management Thematic lead, the Disaster Risk Management Intern will support various aspects of disaster risk management across the MENA Region specially the implementation of the Anticipatory Action portfolio.  This internship provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery while contributing to the humanitarian efforts of the IFRC.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Support Disaster Risk Management Initiatives:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of disaster preparedness plans and activities.
• Contribute to the implementation of the Anticipatory Action – Weather and Climate Information Service – MENA

Coordination and Knowledge Sharing:

• Share information and updates related to disaster risk management initiatives with team members and technical teams.
• Assist in organizing and participating in relevant meetings and workshops. Specifically assist DRM team in the planning of upcoming Anticipatory Action MENA Dialogue Platform.

Job Duties and Responsibilities (continued)

Documentation and Reporting:

• Assist in documenting and analysing data related to Anticipatory Action in MENA region under the WISER project specifically and when needed under different projects and initiatives.
• Support in the preparation of progress reports and presentations as required especially under the Anticipatory action file.

Training and Capacity Building:

• Support in organizing training events for National Societies and partners including the upcoming MENA Dialogue Platform and other webinars and workshops.

General Support:

• Assist with administrative tasks related to disaster risk management projects.

Duties applicable to all staff

1. Work actively towards the achievement of the Federation Secretariat’s goals.
2. Abide by and work in accordance with the Red Cross and Red Crescent principles.
3. Perform any other work-related duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by the line manager.

Education

• Currently pursuing a degree in a relevant field (e.g., disaster management, emergency management, international relations, humanitarian studies) or equivalent experience - Required.

Experience

• Previous experience or coursework related to disaster risk management or humanitarian affairs - Preferred.
• Familiarity with the RC/RC Movement is advantageous - Preferred.
• Previous experience or knowledge on data analysis and reporting - Preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Languages

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - Required.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment - Required.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint - Required.
• Fluent spoken and written English - Required.
• Good command of another IFRC official language (French, Spanish or Arabic) - Preferred.

Competencies, Values and Comments

• Values: Respect for diversity; Integrity; Professionalism; Accountability
• Core competencies: Communication; Collaboration and teamwork; Building trust