Position description
Org. Setting and Reporting
This post is assigned with the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Liaison Office in Ukraine (DPPA LO in Ukraine). The Political Affairs Officer reports to the Chief of Office. The Office reports to and is backstopped by the DPPA Europe and Central Asia Division (ECAD).
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties:
- Reviews and monitors activities in the context of the war in Ukraine; assesses trends which might affect the political situation and the political impact of intra-regional issues recommends solutions/possible action by United Nations.
- Analyses political and related events within assigned area with a view to provide early warning advice to the Chief of Office.
- Prepares analytical reports and papers on sensitive and high profile matters, as required drafts notes, background papers, talking points, speeches and other correspondence for senior UN officials, as required.
- Acts as focal point for collection and analyses of information on political issues of assignment.
- Supports, briefs and participates in visits by UN officials, as required.
- Maintains contacts in support of the Chief of Office liaison functions with other sectors of the UN, other international organizations and governments represented locally on coordination and policy matters; and briefs as required.
- Meets regularly with operational UNCT staff, national officials, as well as diplomatic counterparts, including to plan projects and review project activities, as appropriate.
- Provides up-to-date information to the Chief of Office regarding substantive political matters and country or regional issues and makes recommendations on actions to take.
- Contributes to flash and periodic reports, media updates, thematic and analytical reports, including on peace negotiations, conflict dynamics, political developments.
- Supports the Chief of Office in the key tasks of the Office and acts as ad interim head of office during his/her absence from the duty station.
- Participates in conferences, seminars and academic fora related to his/her assigned area of expertise.
- Provides input for assessment of programmatic activities. Carries out, in consultation with the Chief of Office, administrative functions relating to the staff planning and budget.
- Performs other related duties as required.
Competencies
- Professionalism: Sound knowledge of Eastern European affairs and ability to identify and analyse political, social and economic problems that could cause tensions in a country or geographic area. Ability to develop sources for data collection. 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.
- Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Education
- An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration, or a related field is required.
Work Experience
- Extensive experience, at the international level, in conflict/political analysis and drafting of analytical reports is required.
- A minimum of three years of experience working on peace and security matters in/on Ukraine or Eastern Europe is required.
- Political liaison experience in international diplomatic setting is required.
- Experience working on political affairs for the United Nations or similar international organization is desirable.
- A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution or related area is required.
Languages
- English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in both oral and written English is required. Knowledge of Ukrainian is desirable. Knowledge of Russian is desirable. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage.
Application instructions
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