Org. Setting and Reporting
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The position is located in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), Office of the Under-Secretary-General. The incumbent reports to the Special Assistant to the Under-Secretary-General.
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Responsibilities
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Under the supervision of the Special Assistant, the Political Affairs Officer provides support to the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations and will be responsible for the following duties
• Reviews and monitors, in consultation with the appropriate regional divisions, activities in the country or region assigned; assesses trends which might affect the political situation and the political impact of intra-regional issues such as refugees, drug control and natural resources; recommends solutions/possible action by United Nations.
• Monitors, analyses and reviews political, policy and cross-cutting issues related to peacekeeping with a view to provide early warning and advice to the USG and his/her Special Assistant.
• Prepares analytical reports and papers on sensitive and high profile matters of political or policy concern to the General Assembly, Security Council, or other bodies; drafts notes, background papers, talking points, speeches and other correspondence for the USG.
• Acts as focal point for collection and analyses of information on political, policy and cross-cutting issues, as assigned.
• Provides up-to-date information to the USG regarding substantive political matters and country or regional issues and makes recommendations on actions to take.
• Maintains contacts with other sectors of the DPKO, the Secretariat and the UN system, other international organizations and governments on coordination and policy matters; briefs representatives and provides, as appropriate suggestions and recommendations;
• Serves as departmental focal point for the Secretary-General’s Policy Committee;
• Carries out, in consultation with the Special Assistant, administrative functions relating to the staff planning and budget.
• Backstops the Special Assistant to the USG and serves as OIC of the USG front office during the Special Assistant’s absences.
• Performs other related duties and special assignments as required
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Competencies
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• PROFESSIONALISM: Shows ability to complete in-depth studies and reach conclusions on possible causes and solutions to political problems in specific areas and/or countries. Shows ability to relate to various issues and perspectives to political, social, economic and humanitarian programmes in affected countries and areas. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
• COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• PLANNING & ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
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Education
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Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration or other related. A first-level university degree in combination with an additional two-years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
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Work Experience
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A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution or related area. At least one year of experience in the field is required. Qualifying years of experience are calculated following the receipt of the first level university degree recognised by the United Nations.
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Languages
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Fluency of the working languages of the UN Secretariat, English and French, (both oral and written) is required. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.
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Assessment Method
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Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.
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Special Notice
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Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers in accordance with established rules and procedures.
These posts are financed by the Support Account for Peacekeeping Operations. Extension of appointment will be subject to budgetary approval.
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United Nations Considerations
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The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. (Charter of the United Nations - Chapter 3, article 8). The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.
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No Fee
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THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.
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