Harm reduction field advisor (F/M)

For more than 40 years, Médecins du Monde (MdM), a campaigning medical organisation committed to international solidarity, has been caring for the most vulnerable populations here and abroad. It has continued to bear witness to obstacles that exist in accessing healthcare and has secured sustainable improvements in health-for-all policies.

Those working for this independent organisation do not solely dispense care and treatment but condemn violations of human dignity and rights and fight to improve matters for populations living in precarious situations.

MdM France currently works in 30 countries across all continents to facilitate access to healthcare through 6 political battles:

• Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
• Migration, Exile, Human Rights and Health
• Harm Reduction
• Environment and Health
• Humanitarian Space
• Healthcare systems and rights

Context

MdM has been working in Iraq since the 1990s, with the aim of supporting and strengthening the various health departments in providing quality primary health care services to the most vulnerable populations.

MdM has gradually adapted its interventions to the changing needs of communities affected by conflict, displacement, and recurring crises. Currently, the country is facing a growing public health crisis linked to drug use. In 2024, MdM consolidated its presence in the urban area of Baghdad by opening a community center dedicated to drug users, combining harm reduction and mental health support, thereby creating synergies with its broader public health programs.

Job description

Under the supervision of the general coordinator, you are responsible for the quality, supervision and coordination of the Harm Reduction approach of MdM programme in the Iraq mission. More precisely, your responsibilities are the following:

Program Coordination

• Lead assessments and analysis of ATS users in Baghdad’s rural areas, aligning with MdM’s country strategy
• Implement and adapt MdM’s harm reduction approach based on assessment findings, in coordination with program teams
• Develop and oversee activity plans for the community center, ensuring timely execution
• Supervise data collection, analysis, and ensure quality reporting
• Provide technical support and maintain close collaboration with team members
• Oversee logistical, HR, and financial aspects of harm reduction activities
• Continuously assess project needs and adjust activities with the general coordinator
• Contribute to the HR strategy, budget planning, and risk management
• Conduct regular field visits to monitor implementation

Technical Expertise & Program Development

• Design and implement evidence-based harm reduction strategies, with a focus on outreach in hard-to-reach areas
• Advise on drug use trends, harm reduction models, and service integration with mental health and social services
• Develop protocols, tools, and referral pathways for ATS users

Human Resources Management

• Recruit, train, and support staff under direct or technical supervision
• Provide induction, capacity building, and ongoing coaching
• Develop individual action plans and lead regular team meetings

Training & Capacity Building

• Identify training needs among staff, partners, and stakeholders; develop and deliver training materials
• Support peer workers, CBOs, and partners to improve service quality

Advocacy & Communication

• Contribute to harm reduction advocacy strategies in collaboration with HQ
• Develop position papers, concept notes, and communication materials
• Engage KAP groups in advocacy initiatives and promote their participation

Reporting & Representation

• Contribute to internal reports (monthly, SitReps), donor reports, and authority-required documentation
• Share project results nationally and internationally
• Represent MdM in relevant forums and liaise with stakeholders, including donors and UN agencies