GESI, Protection & Safeguarding Advisor – Border Security Programme

About the role

Mercy Corps is seeking a GESI, Protection & Safeguarding Advisor to lead the integration of gender equality, social inclusion, protection and safeguarding principles across its UK‑FCDO funded Border Security Programme (BSP). The role will shape strategy, guide partners and ensure that interventions minimise risks for vulnerable populations moving across East African borders.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and oversee a comprehensive vision for protection and safeguarding across all programme components.
• Integrate human‑rights, Do‑No‑Harm and GESI principles into programme design, work plans and standard operating procedures.
• Conduct risk analyses and create mitigation plans for law‑enforcement collaboration, organised‑crime dynamics, community engagement and data management.
• Identify entry points for mainstreaming protection and anti‑trafficking measures across programme outcomes.
• Collaborate closely with consortium partners, the Security Manager and HAART to ensure coordinated, high‑quality implementation.
• Provide strategic advice to minimise safeguarding and protection risks in all programme decisions.

Required profile

• Proven experience in protection, safeguarding and GESI within humanitarian or development contexts.
• Strong understanding of irregular migration, human trafficking and related criminal dynamics in East Africa.
• Ability to work with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs and security forces.
• Excellent analytical skills for risk assessment and mitigation planning.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence a high‑impact, multi‑country security programme.
• Collaboration with a leading global humanitarian organization.
• Professional development in protection, safeguarding and gender‑inclusive programming.