National Field Officer
Organizational Context
The United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) is a Special Political Mission established by the UN Security Council to verify the implementation of the 2016 Final Peace Agreement. Its mandate includes verifying aspects of rural reform, reintegration of former combatants, and security guarantees. The Mission's tasks have been expanded to include verifying compliance with sanctions imposed by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace.
Job Purpose
The National Field Officer will support the UNVMC's regional, subregional, and local teams in implementing the Mission's mandate. This involves frequent field visits to understand local dynamics, gather concerns from signatory parties and affected communities, and build relationships with local actors. The role requires monitoring and verification activities, maintaining databases, and preparing reports. The officer will analyze threats, support reintegration efforts, monitor institutional commitments, and assist in communication initiatives to promote peace and reconciliation.
Responsibilities
The UN Volunteer will conduct frequent field visits to understand local dynamics, gather concerns, and identify challenges faced by parties and communities. Responsibilities include building relationships with parties, local actors, and communities; supporting teams in monitoring and verification activities; maintaining databases; and preparing reports. The role involves observing and gathering information on alleged violations of the Final Agreement, analyzing threats, and recommending actions. The officer will assist in building relationships with authorities for security guarantees, support monitoring of institutional commitments in reincorporation, and track economic reintegration projects. Additionally, the role includes creating communication materials for peace proposals, participating in institutional spaces, and serving as a liaison between UN counterparts and other actors.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience is required in areas such as community engagement, civil society, international relations, political affairs, program monitoring and evaluation, project design and implementation, report writing, and political analysis. Proficiency in Spanish and English for reporting and analysis is essential. Experience in post-conflict situations, with gender perspectives, and strong computer skills are also required.
Skills
Key competencies include professionalism, integrity, teamwork, respect for diversity, and commitment to continuous learning. Strong planning, organization, and problem-solving skills are necessary, along with excellent interpersonal and communication abilities for reporting and interaction. Adaptability to challenging field conditions and a genuine commitment to the principles of volunteering and UN values are essential. Experience in community development, project management, and strategy is desirable.