Political Affairs Officer
Organizational Context
This Political Affairs Officer position is within the Central African Republic (CAR) Integrated Operational Team (IOT) of the UN Secretariat's Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations (DPPA-DPO). The role is based in New York and operates under the oversight of the Deputy Director of the IOT, reporting to a Senior Political Affairs Officer.
Job Purpose
The Political Affairs Officer will be instrumental in the daily management of peacekeeping operations, specifically the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). This involves gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information on political developments, both nationally and regionally. The role requires staying abreast of current trends, providing expert advice to senior officials and field missions, and offering technical and substantive support for mandate implementation. The officer will also liaunt with other UN sectors, international organizations, and governments, and contribute to secretariat services for intergovernmental bodies and special missions.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include participating in the daily management of peacekeeping operations like MINUSCA. The role involves gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing information from various sources, including press and communications, to maintain up-to-date knowledge of political issues affecting assigned mandates. The officer will monitor national and regional political developments, providing advice to field missions and UN agencies. Substantive and technical support for mandate implementation is crucial, as is maintaining contact with other UN sectors, international organizations, and governments for coordination. The position requires monitoring intergovernmental actions, managing databases for conflict-related information, participating in fact-finding missions, and providing secretariat services for various UN bodies and meetings.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of experience in political science, international relations, conflict resolution, or a related field is required. Essential experience includes at least one year in a civilian capacity within an African peacekeeping operation and experience with peace and security issues in Africa. Drafting political analysis and diplomatic correspondence is also required. Experience in research and analysis specific to the Central African Republic is desirable.
Skills
• Professionalism: Ability to analyze political, ethnic, social, and economic issues; conscientiousness; persistence; and composure under stress. • Communication: Effective speaking and writing skills; active listening; clarity in communication; and openness in sharing information. • Teamwork: Collaborative approach; valuing colleagues' expertise; willingness to learn; prioritizing team goals; and accepting joint responsibility.