Armed and Security Forces Programme Advisor

About the role

The Armed and Security Forces Programme Advisor supports the ICRC delegation in developing and implementing strategies with armed forces and security actors. The role focuses on promoting respect for international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law (IHRL) and on preventing violations during armed conflict.

Key responsibilities

• Provide real‑time technical analysis of conflict dynamics and other violent situations.
• Design, implement and monitor programmes for Military Armed Groups (MAG) and Police & Gendarmerie (PGE) to prevent IHL/IHRL violations.
• Coordinate and direct FAS team members in analysing and responding to arms carriers’ means and methods of warfare.
• Handle operational and thematic issues such as Health Care in Danger, sexual violence, conduct of hostilities, and use of force.
• Advise the delegation on humanitarian implications of the use of force and support dialogue with state and non‑state actors.
• Deliver internal training on arms carriers and assist the security cell with security matters.
• Build and maintain networks with military, police, and armed‑group command structures and security institutes.
• Support integration of IHL/IHRL into doctrine, training and operational practices of arms carriers.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience in humanitarian contexts, preferably with armed forces or security actors.
• Strong knowledge of IHL, IHRL and related legal standards.
• Ability to conduct technical conflict analysis and provide actionable advice.
• Proven capacity to coordinate multidisciplinary teams and deliver training.
• Excellent networking skills and ability to engage with senior military and police officials.
• Commitment to ICRC values of impact, collaboration, respect and compassion.

Required skills