Peace and Conflict Prevention Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. UNDP operates in 170 countries and territories, working closely with governments and communities to address global and national development challenges. The UNDP Mozambique Country Office is part of this network, focusing on supporting Mozambique's development agenda to improve living standards through sustainable development. Since its formal relations with the Government of Mozambique began in 1976, UNDP has been involved in various initiatives across the country, including a sub-office in Cabo Delgado and significant projects in Sofala. The organization’s work is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2022-2026 and the Country Programme Document (CPD) for the same period, emphasizing human development, economic diversification, climate resilience, and inclusive governance. UNDP Mozambique has been actively involved in addressing the challenges posed by prolonged conflicts, economic marginalization, and humanitarian crises, particularly in light of recent political changes and the need for national dialogue and reconciliation.

Job Overview:
The Peace and Conflict Prevention Specialist will play a crucial role in advancing peacebuilding, national dialogue, and conflict prevention initiatives in Mozambique. Under the guidance of the Team Leader of the Governance and Social Cohesion Unit, the specialist will provide technical and advisory support to the Government of Mozambique and the Technical Committee (COTE) to facilitate the national dialogue process. This position requires a deep understanding of socio-political, economic, and development trends affecting peace and social cohesion in Mozambique. The specialist will be responsible for strategic thinking, design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, and implementation of initiatives aimed at strengthening national dialogue and peace infrastructures. The role is vital in ensuring that UNDP's efforts align with national priorities and contribute to the overall goal of fostering social cohesion and stability in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Specialist will be responsible for a variety of key tasks, including:

• Providing technical and advisory support on national dialogue and peacebuilding initiatives, including policy advice to UNDP Mozambique and the Government of Mozambique.
• Conducting analytical assessments and preparing briefing notes, policy documents, and knowledge products related to peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
• Leading the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive project on Peacebuilding, Political Dialogue, and Social Cohesion, ensuring alignment with national priorities.
• Developing strategic frameworks for national dialogue processes and peace infrastructures, facilitating stakeholder consultations, and building capacity among government and non-governmental actors.
• Engaging with key stakeholders, including government ministries, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to foster collaboration and resource mobilization.
• Monitoring project progress, managing risks, and preparing regular reports to ensure compliance with UNDP standards.
• Documenting lessons learned and contributing to knowledge products that promote peacebuilding and social cohesion in Mozambique.
• Supervising project staff and ensuring efficient coordination among various teams and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Political Science, Peace and Conflict Studies, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Studies, Social Science, Legal Studies, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor's degree) in these fields, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered. The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience with a master's degree or 7 years with a bachelor's degree in areas such as peacebuilding, conflict prevention, rule of law, security, or elections. Candidates should have experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and designing development programs. Proficiency in computer applications and strong analytical, communication, and writing skills are also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Political Science, Peace and Conflict Studies, Security Studies, Social Science, or Legal Studies. A bachelor's degree in these areas, along with additional qualifying experience, may also be accepted. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of peacebuilding and conflict prevention in Mozambique.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master's degree or 7 years for those with a bachelor's degree. This experience should be in fields related to peacebuilding, conflict prevention, rule of law, security, or elections. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in project management, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building activities, as well as experience in designing and implementing development programs.

Languages:
Excellent writing and communication skills in both English and Portuguese are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and policy documents. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is part of the Governance and Social Cohesion team at the UNDP Mozambique Country Office. The incumbent will report to the Team Leader of the Governance and Social Cohesion Unit and will work collaboratively with various UNDP teams. The role emphasizes the integration of human security, human rights, and gender-based approaches into peacebuilding initiatives. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not charge fees during the recruitment process and adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination.