Associate Liaison Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Ethnic Affairs Section of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC). The UNVMC is dedicated to supporting the peace process in Colombia, particularly focusing on the implementation of the Peace Agreement, which aims to address the needs and rights of ethnic communities. The organization operates with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and human rights in the region, and it engages with various stakeholders, including ethnic organizations, civil society, and governmental bodies. The UNVMC is part of a broader United Nations effort to foster stability and development in Colombia, which has been affected by decades of conflict. The organization emphasizes gender equality and diversity in its workforce, striving for a balanced representation of genders and backgrounds among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Associate Liaison Officer will play a crucial role in the Ethnic Affairs Section, focusing on gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information related to ethnic affairs, particularly in the context of the Colombian Peace Agreement. The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining up-to-date knowledge of political developments and trends affecting ethnic communities, providing insights and recommendations to senior officials. This position requires a proactive approach to monitoring national and regional political developments, ensuring that the UNVMC's policies are adhered to, and integrating a gender-sensitive perspective into all functions. The role also involves liaising with various stakeholders, including ethnic organizations and other UN entities, to foster collaboration and coordination on ethnic affairs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Liaison Officer will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Gathering, selecting, and analyzing information from diverse sources, including ethnic organizations, media, and publications related to ethnic affairs.
• Keeping abreast of developments in ethnic affairs and the implementation of the Ethnic Chapter of the Peace Agreement.
• Monitoring political developments at national and regional levels, providing analysis and recommendations on ethnic affairs-related issues.
• Maintaining contacts with ethnic organizations, UN sectors, national and international organizations, and governments to coordinate efforts on civil society and policy matters.
• Monitoring actions taken by intergovernmental groups and organizations regarding the implementation of the ethnic chapter.
• Classifying and storing information in computerized databases related to ethnic affairs indicators.
• Participating in fact-finding missions and ensuring compliance with UNVMC policies and ethical standards.
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of indigenous and afro-descendant people's rights, demonstrating professionalism and a commitment to ethical standards. The role requires the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of inclusivity. Candidates should exhibit strong planning and organizational skills, with the ability to set clear goals and prioritize tasks effectively. The position demands a high level of professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender equality in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Political Science, Management, Development, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Professional training in indigenous people's rights or human rights is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution, or a related area is required. Experience with Latin American issues is essential, and familiarity with political affairs concerning ethnic communities is desirable. Candidates should also have experience in data collection and analysis, with a preference for those who have supported the Colombian Peace Agreement.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish (both oral and written) is required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding. Knowledge of French is an asset, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 December 202

• If the selected candidate is a current staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position is subject to local recruitment, and applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in Bogota. Eligible applicants selected from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Staff members subject to local recruitment are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. The position does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.