Political Affairs Officer

Organizational Context

The Policy, Evaluation and Training Division (DPET) within the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) develops and disseminates policy and doctrine for Peacekeeping Operations. It evaluates policy application, gathers lessons learned, and guides standardized training. DPET also fosters cooperation with UN and external partners. This role is within the conflict-related sexual violence team.

Job Purpose

This Political Affairs Officer role supports the conflict-related sexual violence team within DPO's Policy, Evaluation and Training Division. The purpose is to gather, analyze, and disseminate information on conflict-related sexual violence, monitor political developments impacting its prevention and response, and advise field missions. The role contributes to the implementation of Security Council Resolutions and DPO mandates by providing technical and substantive support for training, developing guidance, preparing analytical outputs, and coordinating with UN partners, international organizations, and governments. The officer will also monitor actions by intergovernmental groups and NGOs and participate in relevant evaluation missions.

Responsibilities

The Political Affairs Officer will gather, analyze, and disseminate information on conflict-related sexual violence from various sources. They will maintain up-to-date knowledge of political issues and trends affecting the implementation of relevant Security Council Resolutions and DPO mandates. The role involves monitoring national and regional political developments related to conflict-related sexual violence and advising field missions. Responsibilities include providing technical and substantive support for training and guidance development, organizing workshops, and preparing written outputs such as background papers and reports. The officer will also maintain contact with UN partners, international organizations, and governments for coordination and policy matters, monitor relevant actions by intergovernmental groups and NGOs, and participate in evaluation missions.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, or conflict resolution is required. At least two years of experience in leading or coordinating activities to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence is mandatory. Experience with training development and guidance on this topic is also required. Field experience with UN peacekeeping or political missions is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Teamwork, Planning and Organizing, knowledge of DPO's conflict-related sexual violence mandate, understanding of legal and conceptual frameworks on conflict-related sexual violence, ability to conduct gender analysis, and experience in identifying and analyzing political issues impacting mandate implementation.

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