Application Guide

How to Apply for Humanitarian Access & Security Manager - Syria

at Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion

🏢 About Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion

Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion is a global nonprofit dedicated to supporting people with disabilities and vulnerable populations in conflict and disaster settings. They are unique in their dual mandate of providing humanitarian aid while actively promoting inclusion and disability rights, and they offer a supportive, inclusive work environment that encourages diversity and reasonable accommodations.

About This Role

As the Humanitarian Access & Security Manager for Syria, you will be responsible for ensuring safe and principled humanitarian access for HI's programs in a fragile, post-conflict context. This role is impactful because you'll navigate complex security dynamics to enable life-saving assistance and early recovery interventions for millions of people in need.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves monitoring security incidents and updating risk assessments, liaising with local authorities and humanitarian access working groups, and briefing staff on safety protocols. You'll also travel to field sites to assess access constraints and support program teams in adapting activities to security conditions.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion Is Looking For

  • Proven experience (5+ years) in security management within humanitarian or development contexts, preferably in complex conflict settings like Syria or similar.
  • Deep understanding of humanitarian principles, access negotiations, and risk assessment methodologies, with ability to develop and implement security protocols.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to liaise with diverse stakeholders (local authorities, armed groups, UN, NGOs) and build trust.
  • Fluency in English and Arabic (written and spoken) is essential; experience working with people with disabilities or inclusion programming is a plus.

📝 Tips for Applying to Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion

1

Tailor your CV to highlight specific security management experience in conflict zones, including examples of access negotiations or crisis response.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your understanding of the Syrian context and how you've navigated similar fragile environments.

3

Demonstrate knowledge of HI's disability inclusion mandate by referencing how you would integrate accessibility into security planning.

4

Address the remote location (Damascus) and show willingness to work in a volatile environment with potential health and security risks.

5

Submit your application before the closing date (30th April 2026) and indicate any accommodation needs for the interview process.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your experience in humanitarian access negotiations and security management in conflict settings, with concrete examples.', 'Highlight your cultural sensitivity and ability to work with local communities, authorities, and armed actors.', "Express commitment to inclusion and disability rights, aligning with HI's mission.", 'Show flexibility and readiness to deploy to Damascus on short notice.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review HI's Syria operation reports and recent projects on their website.
  • → Understand the current humanitarian situation in Syria, including key actors and access challenges.
  • → Read HI's disability inclusion policy and how it applies to security protocols.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the UN Security Management System and NGO coordination mechanisms in Syria.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you successfully negotiated humanitarian access with a non-state armed group.
2 How do you conduct security risk assessments in a rapidly changing environment like Syria?
3 What strategies would you use to ensure the safety of staff with disabilities in the field?
4 How do you balance humanitarian principles with security constraints?
5 Tell us about a security incident you managed and the lessons learned.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus solely on military or law enforcement experience without linking it to humanitarian principles.
  • Avoid generic security management language; show specific knowledge of the Syrian context.
  • Don't ignore the inclusion aspect – failing to mention disability or vulnerable groups may signal a mismatch with HI's values.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: April 30, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion!

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