POLITICAL AFFAIRS OFFICER

Organizational Context

The Political Affairs Officer will serve within the Office of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General (PESG) for Sudan, based in Addis Ababa. The PESG leads engagement with Sudanese, regional, and international stakeholders to end the conflict and relaunch a political process, aiming for greater coherence in mediation efforts. The role reports to the Principal Political Affairs Officer/Head of Office.

Job Purpose

The Political Affairs Officer will support the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan by leading good offices and political engagement with key stakeholders to end the conflict and relaunch a credible political process. This involves enhancing coherence and coordination of mediation initiatives. The role requires providing technical expertise on security stabilization, ceasefire, and cessation of hostilities, coordinating research and analysis on political and security issues, and preparing briefing materials for senior staff. The officer will advise on negotiations, develop operational plans for peace initiatives, and support inter-agency programs. The position contributes to conflict prevention, resolution, and peace implementation efforts in Sudan.

Responsibilities

Plan and implement operational activities related to political affairs, conflict prevention, resolution, mediation, and support for political transitions, integrating rights-based and gender perspectives. Provide technical expertise and advice on inclusive security stabilization, particularly ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, to the Personal Envoy and stakeholders. Coordinate and supervise research and analysis on political and security arrangements relevant to Sudan and the PESG's work. Prepare briefing notes and talking points for senior staff. Advise the head of mission and intergovernmental bodies on assigned issues, negotiations, and procedures. Develop and maintain relations with government officials, advising on mutual concerns. Design and participate in conflict resolution, mediation, and peace implementation initiatives, focusing on ceasefires and security arrangements. Assist in planning and coordinating inter-agency programs and represent the team at relevant forums. Support the formulation of the unit's work program and budget through research and participation in meetings.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in political affairs, international relations, law, security, conflict resolution, or a related area is required. This includes at least two years of field experience in a UN peace operation or similar international organization, with some experience in Africa and conflict/post-conflict settings. Experience in political outreach, facilitation, analysis, reporting, supporting mediation efforts, and working on security arrangements and ceasefires is also required.

Skills

Professionalism: Expertise in preventive diplomacy, mediation, conflict resolution; understanding of Sudan's political/security dynamics; ability to build stakeholder relations and analyze political events; strong drafting and reporting skills; commitment to results and professional integrity. Teamwork: Collaborative approach, valuing diverse input, and supporting group decisions. Planning and Organizing: Ability to set clear goals, prioritize tasks, manage time and resources effectively, and anticipate risks.

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