Handicap International seeking regional coordinator in Sri Lanka (1 Year - March 2008)
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Handicap International is an international organisation specialised in the field of disability. Non-governmental, non-religious, non-political and non-profit making, it works alongside people with disabilities, whatever the context, offering them assistance and supporting them in their efforts to become self-reliant. Since its creation, the organisation has set up programmes in approximately 60 countries and intervened in many emergency situations. It has a network of eight national associations (Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, United Kingdom, USA) which provide human and financial resources, manages projects and raises awareness of Handicap International’s actions and campaigns.
Country context :
The ceasefire signed in February 24, 2002 with Norway brokering peace negotiations has been cancelled in January 2008, announcing a full scale conflict in Northern Sri Lanka this year. The Norway ceasefire observation mission (SLMM) left the country having not any more the mandate to intervene in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile the situation in the East province is complicated with the presence of various paramilitary groups, LTTE and Sri Lankan Army in the perspective of municipal election in 2008.
Vavuniya and Mannar towns are in government controlled area. Killinochi is the LTTE stronghold. Killinochi is restricted and requests authorizations from both government forces and LTTE.
HI starts in January an office in Vavuniya, and will work in close cooperation with Vavuniya hospital, local authorities and the aid community. HI is planning to develop a sub-office in Kilinochchi hospital, to support the physiotherapy department. Living conditions in Vavuniya, Mannar and especially Kilinochchi are those of a conflict zone.
There is a good level of coordination between the aid agencies regarding security issues (regular interagency meetings, efficient security tree…). There are security systems in place which must be adhered to.
Job context:
Handicap International programme opened in July 2004 in Batticaloa, East Sri Lanka, with the set up of a Physical Rehabilitation Centre. Mobile prosthetic & orthotics and physiotherapy clinics have been carried out to be able to reach out to beneficiaries outside Batticaloa town. In 2006 – 2007, Handicap International opened four CAMIDs (Centre for Accessibility, Monitoring and Information on Disability).
Following a first assessment completed in August 2007 at Vavuniya districts, Handicap International decided to implement a first mission in December 2007. Workshops were organized for the Government officers and camp management officers, international and local organizations involved in the Vavuniya contingency plan and the hospital staff of Mannar, Vavuniya and Kilinochchi to take into account persons with disabilities in preparedness and emergency situation.
Handicap International objective in North Sri Lanka is to facilitate that disabled/injured persons have an equal access to relief and emergency response and that secondary disability can be prevented in health structures. This translates with specific support to IDPs and local hospitals.
Job constraints
Because of the tense context, the regional coordinator should follow strict security measures.
Not accompanied position
Job description
Under the responsibility of the programme director, the Regional Coordinator have to ensure the overall coordination of the activities in the North province.
His main function will be :
To manage the the team (9 staff).. This team is bound to evolve according to context and programme developments.
To undertake the overall responsibility for the coherence and development of the Handicap International programme implemented first in Vavuniya district and secondly in Kilinochchi and Mannar districts with regard to the defined HI strategy in Sri Lanka.
To represent HI with all relevant authorities
Ensure a safe environment for Handicap International staff
Profile sought :
General profile with a proven experience in emergency context and in security rules and procedures.
Excellent written and spoken English.
Established experience in project management and development.
Experience or strong interest for emergency response as well as disability issues. Previous experience with Handicap International is an asset.
Experience in project writing and reporting
Excellent diplomatic and network skills with local and international stakeholders.
Languages : English compulsory
Remuneration : Volunteer or salaried status based on experience
Volonteer : 750€ or 850€ monthly allowance + perdiem + accommodation + insurance + transport
Salaried : 2100€ to 2400€ monthly salary + insurance + transport
Length of Mission : 1 year
Starting date : 1st of march
Please send cover letter and resume (preferably by e-mail) to :
Please send cover letter and resume to :
By Email :
By Fax: 514-937-6685
Or by mail : HANDICAP INTERNATIONAL CANADA 1819 RÉNÉ-LÉVESQUE WEST, SUITE 401 MONTRÉAL, QUÉBEC H3H 2P5
