Political Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Conference on Disarmament and Conference Support Branch of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). The UNODA is dedicated to promoting disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons, ensuring international security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and facilitating the implementation of various disarmament treaties. Established to address global security challenges, the UNODA plays a crucial role in fostering international cooperation and dialogue on disarmament issues. The organization operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders including governments, international organizations, and civil society to advance its mission. The UNODA employs a diverse workforce committed to the principles of the United Nations, with a focus on professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights.

Job Overview:
The Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for implementing extra-budgetary activities that support key disarmament conventions, including the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW), the Anti-personnel Mine Ban Convention (APMBC), the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), and the Political Declaration on Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas (EWIPA). This role requires a deep understanding of disarmament issues and the ability to liaise effectively with various stakeholders, including donor countries and international organizations. The incumbent will be expected to maintain up-to-date knowledge of disarmament events and trends, plan and direct workshops and seminars, and provide technical and substantive support for the implementation of disarmament mandates. The position also involves monitoring political developments at national and regional levels and advising senior officials accordingly. The Political Affairs Officer will play a key role in ensuring the effective coordination of disarmament efforts and will be involved in missions to countries within their area of responsibility, contributing to the overall goals of the UNODA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Political Affairs Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: serving as the lead officer for the delivery of implementation support and assistance to States regarding the CCW, APMBC, CCM, and EWIPA; liaising with donors and preparing reports on the status of implementation activities; maintaining current knowledge of disarmament issues; planning and participating in workshops and seminars; advising senior officials on political developments; providing technical support for the implementation of mandates; maintaining contacts with other UN sectors and international organizations; monitoring actions taken by intergovernmental groups and NGOs; managing information related to disarmament treaties; participating in missions to relevant countries; providing secretariat services for conferences and meetings; preparing meetings for senior officials; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in political science, international relations, law, or a related field. The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, or security. Additionally, at least two years of experience supporting inter-governmental processes on disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation is essential. Demonstrable experience in providing implementation support or program management for humanitarian disarmament treaties is highly desirable. Candidates should exhibit professionalism, teamwork, and strong planning and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration, or a related area is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complex issues related to disarmament and international security.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields such as political science, international relations, law, disarmament, or security. Candidates must have at least two years of experience specifically supporting inter-governmental processes related to disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation. Experience in providing implementation support and/or program management for humanitarian disarmament treaties, such as the APMBC, CCM, CCW, and EWIPA Declaration, is highly desirable and will be considered an asset for applicants.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of French is considered desirable. Candidates should be familiar with the UN Language Framework, which outlines the minimum required levels of proficiency in these languages for effective communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and may involve travel to various countries as part of the responsibilities. The role is full-time and may require the incumbent to engage with international stakeholders and participate in high-level discussions on disarmament issues. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the organization is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce.