POLITICAL AFFAIRS OFFICER

Organizational Context

This position is within the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes, based in Nairobi. The office supports the implementation of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region, aiming to address root causes of conflict and end cycles of violence. The role reports to the Senior Political Affairs Officer/Team Leader.

Job Purpose

The Political Affairs Officer will monitor and analyze political, security, humanitarian, and human rights situations in assigned countries, providing strategic recommendations to senior management. The role involves participating in cross-cutting activities such as mediation, conflict prevention, and post-conflict rehabilitation, ensuring an integrated approach with a focus on rights, conflict sensitivity, and gender. The officer will prepare various documents, advise on policy and negotiations, and support the organization of high-level meetings. This position contributes to the office's mandate of promoting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.

Responsibilities

Monitor and analyze political, security, humanitarian, and human rights situations in assigned countries, providing forward-looking assessments and strategic recommendations. Participate in activities related to mediation, conflict prevention, post-conflict rehabilitation, and governance institution-building, integrating rights-based dimensions, conflict sensitivity, and gender perspectives. Prepare briefing notes, reports, and correspondence for senior management, and advise on assigned issues and negotiations. Develop and maintain relations with government officials. Participate in teams addressing regional/country issues, assist in planning and coordinating high-level meetings and interagency projects, and represent the team at conferences. Conduct fact-finding and planning missions, drafting reports. Support the formulation of work programs and budgets.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, or conflict resolution is required. Experience in political outreach, facilitation, analysis, advice, and reporting is essential. Experience working in or on the Great Lakes region and supporting high-level political meetings is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Communication (written and verbal), Teamwork, Political analysis, Conflict resolution, Reporting, Interpersonal skills, Meeting coordination, Gender sensitivity.

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