Political Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Geneva Branch of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). The UNODA was established to promote disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, including biological weapons. The organization operates globally, with a focus on international cooperation and the implementation of disarmament treaties. The UNODA aims to enhance international security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and stability through effective disarmament measures and policies. The Geneva Branch specifically focuses on the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and engages with various stakeholders, including member states, international organizations, and civil society, to support the implementation of the BWC and related activities. The UNODA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, promoting gender equality, and ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and integrity among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Political Affairs Officer will oversee the implementation of extrabudgetary activities in support of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) as part of the BWC team within the UNODA Geneva Branch. This role involves liaising with donors, preparing reports on the status of implementation, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of disarmament issues. The officer will plan and participate in workshops and seminars, monitor political developments, and provide technical support for the implementation of mandates. The position requires a proactive approach to managing relationships with various stakeholders, including other UN sectors, international organizations, and governments. The officer will also be responsible for maintaining computerized databases related to the activities and participating in missions to countries within the assigned area of responsibility. This role is critical in ensuring the effective implementation of disarmament initiatives and contributing to the overall mission of the UNODA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Serve as the lead officer for the implementation of extra-budgetary activities in support of the BWC.
• Liaise with donors and prepare related reports on the status of implementation of activities.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of events relating to disarmament issues and their impact on mandates.
• Plan, direct, and participate in workshops, seminars, and other project activities in Geneva and abroad.
• Monitor relevant national and regional political developments and provide advice to senior officials.
• Provide technical and substantive support in the implementation of mandates.
• Maintain contacts with other UN sectors, international organizations, and governments on coordination and policy matters.
• Monitor actions taken by intergovernmental groups and NGOs.
• Select, classify, and store information in computerized databases. 1
• Participate in missions to countries within the assigned area of responsibility. 1
• Provide secretariat services to conferences and meetings. 1
• Prepare meetings for senior officials with relevant country representatives. 1
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration, or a related area. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, or related fields. Experience in project management, particularly in organizing and implementing activities and events, is desirable. Familiarity with supporting inter-governmental processes on disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as experience with the Biological Weapons Convention, is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration, or a related area. Candidates with a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complex issues related to disarmament and international security, as well as for effectively engaging with various stakeholders in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, or development management. Candidates should have experience in project management activities, including the organization and implementation of outreach activities and events. Experience in supporting inter-governmental processes related to disarmament and non-proliferation is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Biological Weapons Convention and providing treaty implementation support.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and familiarity with other UN official languages is considered an asset. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the UN and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to the availability of the post or funds, budgetary approval, or extension of the mandate. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process adheres to the principles of fairness and equality, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated based on their qualifications and organizational needs. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.