About this role

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the office of the United Nations Representative to the Geneva International Discussions (UNRGID) in Geneva. The position involves regular travel and extended stay, as necessary, to the area of responsibility of UNRGID. The Political Affairs Officer will report to the UN Representative/Co-Chair of the Geneva International Discussions through the Officer-in-Charge of UNRGID/ Director of Europe and Central Asia Division (ECAD) of DPPA-DPO and relevant Team Leader/Senior Political Affairs Officer in ECAD.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

Works in close cooperation with the team members to effectively contribute and support the implementation of UNRGID’s mandate in the framework of the Geneva International Discussions.
Provides substantive advice and support to the UN Representative/Co-Chair on all key issues related to the United Nations engagement in the Geneva Discussions and the UN-chaired Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM).
Closely follows political and operational developments in the region, with a particular focus on political, security and humanitarian issues, with a view to providing early warning.
Provides political analysis and reporting on political and peace and security-related developments and issues of relevance to the UN mandate and the agenda of the Geneva International Discussions and suggests recommendations on appropriate action.
Prepares analytical reports and papers, background materials, thematic concept papers, communications and correspondence, including code cables and other documents in support of the UN’s role as the Co-Chair of the Geneva International Discussions and Chair of the IPRM.
Prepares and organizes UN Representative/Co-Chair visits to the region, both bilateral and joint visits together with the EU and OSCE Co-Chairs in preparation for the official rounds of the Geneva International Discussions.
Coordinates the preparation of the rounds of the Geneva International Discussions, coordinates with the EU and OSCE counterparts and with UN Office in Geneva on organizational and logistical aspects, prepares briefing materials and summary notes of the meetings.
Prepares and participates in the meetings of the IPRM. Liaises with the participants of IPRM. Drafts the provisional agenda, summary conclusions, press statements and meeting records, and ensures follow-up on decisions taken.
Ensures prompt operational liaison with the participants of the IPRM and Geneva International Discussions as well as with EU and OSCE Co-Chairs in response to incidents or other issues requiring Co-Chairs’ attention and action.
Maintains liaison with local and international actors, in particular the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM), UN agencies, funds and programmes, and other relevant non-governmental and international organizations.
Serves as mission focal point on assigned cross-cutting policy issues. Supports the preparation of budget and other policy-related submissions.
Performs other related duties as required.

Competencies

Professionalism: Up-to-date knowledge of political developments directly relevant to the Geneva International Discussions. Shows ability to complete in-depth studies and reach conclusions on possible causes and solutions to political problems in the areas covered by the Geneva International Discussions. Shows ability to demonstrate communication and reporting skills. Shows ability to relate to various issues and perspectives to political, social, economic and humanitarian programmes in conflict affected 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) degree in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration, or related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

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. Extensive experience in conflict/political analysis and the drafting of analytical reports is required. Experience in political outreach, liaison, facilitation, and coordination, including with relevant regional organizations, is required. Experience working in a conflict or post-conflict setting in the field, in a peace operation of the United Nations or other international organizations, is required. A minimum of four years of up-to-date experience working on peace and security matters in Eastern Europe, particularly South Caucasus, is required. Experience supporting mediation and/or peacebuilding processes is desirable.