National Peaceful Elections Specialist
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a leading UN agency for international development, operating in 170 countries for over 60 years to foster prosperity, effective governance, environmental sustainability, and crisis resilience. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), UNDP partners with the government and civil society to promote inclusive growth, effective governance, and sustainable development. The 2024-2028 Country Programme focuses on Gender Equality, Governance, Peace and Social Cohesion, Climate and Environment, and Sustainable Economic Transformation, with a specific emphasis on peaceful elections.
Job Purpose
This role supports the "Support to Peaceful Elections in PNG (SPE)" initiative, a joint UN project convened by UNDP in partnership with OHCHR and UN Women, in anticipation of the 2027 Parliamentary elections. The initiative aims to address critical gaps in electoral processes, particularly at the provincial level, and strengthen institutions involved in violence mitigation and dispute resolution. The specialist will contribute to reducing electoral tensions, enhancing the participation of marginalized groups, and building the capacity of key stakeholders, including the PNG Electoral Commission, security forces, and political party commissions, to ensure credible, transparent, and inclusive elections.
Responsibilities
The UN Volunteer will provide technical support for the "Support to Peaceful Elections in PNG (SPE)" project, monitoring election preparations and emerging situations to brief UN and UNDP Senior Management. Key duties include supporting the organization and delivery of training and capacity development initiatives for electoral stakeholders. The role involves coordinating with participating UN organizations on the SPE joint project, organizing regular team meetings, and liaising with Development Partners through PNGEC-led coordination activities. Additionally, the volunteer will support partnership management with key electoral stakeholders like the PNG Electoral Commission and the Registry of Political Parties, assist the secretariat for the project Steering Committee and reference group, monitor project indicators, and draft donor reports and communications materials.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in democratic governance, elections, institutional strengthening, international development, or human rights is required. Experience in electoral assistance, including logistics and operations or electoral system reform, is essential. Experience in fragile and conflict-affected settings, institutional capacity building, and working with the UN system is advantageous.
Skills
The role requires strong communication, drafting, and reporting skills, with the ability to work effectively under pressure in a multicultural environment. Key competencies include adaptability, flexibility, integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity, and teamwork. Expertise in administration, knowledge management, research, project management, programme development, and strategy is also valued.