Org. Setting and Reporting

The position is located in the Office of the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations (OUSG) in the Department of Peace Operations (DPO). The incumbent reports directly to the Principal Political Affairs Officer (Chief of Office). DPO provides political and executive direction to UN Peacekeeping operations around the world and maintains contact with the Security Council, troop and financial contributors, and parties to the conflict in the implementation of Security Council mandates. DPO also provides guidance and support of military, police, mine action and other relevant issues to other UN political and peacebuilding missions. For more information on DPO please refer to https://peacekeeping.un.org/en

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties: • Analyses and monitors activities in designated peacekeeping missions, countries or regions assigned; assesses trends which might affect the political, security and operational situation and the impact of intra-regional issues; recommends solutions/possible action by the United Nations. • Analyses political, security and related events within the assigned areas with a view to providing early warning advice to the USG and Chief of Office. • Prepares and reviews analytical reports and papers on sensitive and high-profile matters of concern to the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, the General Assembly, Security Council, or other bodies, and assists with the identification of departmental priorities and needs. • Reviews operational updates on peacekeeping operations and participates in the organization and supervision of Secretariat services for the Security Council and other committees and bodies. • Acts as focal point for collection and analyses of information on assigned peacekeeping issues. • Arranges and participates in missions to peacekeeping operations and troop- or police-contributing countries undertaken by the USG. • Meets regularly with integrated operational teams, including UN staff, as well as Military and Civilian Police officers to plan projects and review project activities. • Provides up-to-date information to senior officials regarding substantive peacekeeping matters, including thematic and cross-cutting topics, as well as country or regional issues, and makes recommendations on actions to take. • Maintains contacts with other sectors of the UN, other international organizations, Permanent Missions and governments on coordination and policy matters; briefs representatives and provides, as appropriate suggestions and recommendations. • Supports implementation of initiatives relating to the safety and security of peacekeeping personnel, including providing guidance to lead offices and review of materials for the SG and the USG; • Supports efforts to strengthen outreach to the development pillar, including by coordinating with regional divisions and other DPO offices in order to devise strategy, processes and tools to strengthen the relationship with DCO and the Resident Coordinators; • Serves as OUSG focal point for a number of operational, policy and thematic areas, including human rights screening. • Performs other related duties as required.

Competencies

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.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, history, international relations, public/policy administration, law or other related. A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience in a related filed may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Job - Specific Qualification
Not available.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, security, peacekeeping or related area is required. A minimum of three years of experience working in a front office environment providing substantive support to senior level UN officials or equivalent in a national service is required.