MENA Programme Officer

Company Description International Detention Coalition (IDC) is a global network committed to reducing and ultimately ending immigration detention, while promoting rights-respecting alternatives. IDC works with people directly affected by detention, governments, civil society, UN agencies, and other stakeholders to create solutions that allow individuals to live freely while their immigration cases are resolved. The organization is grounded in a strong human rights and dignity framework, focusing on practical, community-based alternatives that benefit migrants and societies. With members and partners across continents, IDC coordinates collective action, advocacy, and capacity building to transform immigration systems. This mission-driven environment offers staff the opportunity to contribute to systemic change and tangible improvements in people’s lives.

Role Description The MENA Programme Officer is a full-time, on-site position based in Mauritania. The role involves coordinating and implementing IDC’s programs across the Middle East and North Africa region, including supporting the development and promotion of alternatives to immigration detention. The Programme Officer will engage with civil society, government representatives, community groups, and people with lived experience to advance rights-based policies and practices. Daily tasks include organizing meetings and events, conducting research and analysis on regional developments, drafting reports and advocacy materials, and providing technical support and capacity building to partners. The role also requires regular monitoring and evaluation of program activities, maintaining accurate documentation, and contributing to strategic planning and regional communications.

Qualifications

• Strong program coordination and project management skills, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting.
• Experience in human rights, migration, or refugee protection, with a solid understanding of immigration detention and alternatives.
• Excellent research, analysis, and written communication skills, with the ability to prepare reports, briefs, and advocacy materials.
• Proven stakeholder engagement skills, including working collaboratively with civil society, government actors, and affected communities.
• Fluency in English and strong proficiency in Arabic or French; additional regional languages are an asset.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment, with strong interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity.
• Prior experience working in the MENA region, particularly on-site in challenging or complex contexts, is highly desirable.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in law, international relations, social sciences, human rights, or a related field.
• Capacity to travel within the region as required and to manage competing priorities in a mission-driven setting.