JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities
Responsibilities: Within delegated authority, the Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties: • Gathers, selects and analyses information contained in communications and publications received from different sources, including the press, mine action-related data and open source information, as it impacts the mine action sector. • Drafts reports, talking points, Notes to File, concept notes/proposals and other written related material in support of programme delivery. • Maintains up-to-date knowledge of events relating to political issues, in general, and in particular as they affect the mine action sector in the AoR. Keeps abreast of latest trends and developments in the area of assignment and provides inputs on issues to senior officials and colleagues in the programme and elsewhere in the Secretariat as required. • Monitors national and regional level political developments and provides advice to the programme, UNMAS HQ and/or agencies active on the ground. • Provides technical and substantive back up for the CMAP in the implementation of the programme • Maintains contacts with other sectors of the UN, other international organizations and governments on mine action coordination and policy matters. • Monitors actions taken by intergovernmental groups, UN organisations, government and non-governmental organizations related to mine action • Participates in fact-finding and other missions within assigned area of responsibility. • Participates in provision of secretariat services to Security Council, General Assembly, subsidiary organizations, negotiating bodies, conferences, meetings, and /or special missions. • Prepares meetings of the CMAP and/or visiting delegations with officials in the AoR. • Collects and analyzes data to identify trends or patterns and provide insights through graphs, charts, tables and reports using data visualization methods to enable data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting. • Performs other related duties as required.

Competencies
Professionalism: Demonstrates professional competence and in depth knowledge of political affairs; Strong analytical skills, and experience in information collection and management; excellent drafting and editing skills with the proven ability to complete in-depth studies and reach conclusions on possible causes and solutions to political problems in specific areas and/or countries; Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Able to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management. Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration or other related. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is an advantage.

Job – Specific Qualification
Not available.

Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution or related area is required. Experience in drafting high quality documents, such as reports, notes to file, code cables, and briefing notes is required. At least one year working in a United Nations common system field operation (inclusive of peacekeeping, political missions and UN agencies, funds, and programmes) – or similar international organization or non-governmental organization- in a conflict/post-conflict environment working on political issues is required. Experience working on Middle East in particular is desirable. Experience in the area of mine action, security sector reform, stabilization or humanitarian response/coordination is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.

Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements