Political Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Operations and Crisis Centre (UNOCC) is a multi-party entity that operates under the Executive Office of the Secretary-General (EOSG). It provides global situational awareness and crisis management, facilitating cross-pillar analysis and decision-making within the UN. The UNOCC is strategically overseen by a Client Board of principals from various UN entities and is operationally positioned under the Office of Coordination and Shared Services (OCSS). The organization is dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping and political missions through improved coordination and information sharing.

Job Overview:
The Political Affairs Officer position is crucial for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information related to political and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues in regions of interest to the UN. The officer will be responsible for compiling data from various UN entities, including peacekeeping missions, and utilizing data visualization methods to present insights that support decision-making processes. The role requires maintaining up-to-date knowledge of current events and trends, monitoring political developments, and providing technical support to Joint Operations Centres (JOCs) in peacekeeping missions. The officer will also engage with other sectors of the UN and international organizations to ensure effective coordination and policy implementation. This position demands flexibility, as it involves working non-traditional hours as part of the UNOCC Watch Room shift system, including night and weekend shifts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Political Affairs Officer will perform a variety of duties, including: gathering and analyzing information on countries and regions of interest; processing and compiling data from relevant UN entities; identifying trends and providing insights through data visualization; maintaining knowledge of current political/security issues; monitoring political developments at national and regional levels; assisting Watch Room coordinators with technical and substantive support to JOCs; maintaining contacts with other UN sectors and international organizations; selecting and classifying data for analysis; participating in assistance missions to JOCs; providing secretariat services for crisis management team meetings; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in political science, international relations, or a related field. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. The role requires analytical skills to interpret data and provide insights for decision-making. Candidates should also exhibit strong planning and organizational abilities, ensuring that priorities are managed effectively and that work is completed efficiently.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in political science, history, international relations, journalism, media, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution, or a related area is required. Additionally, at least one year of experience working in an operations room or situation center is essential, along with one year of experience in data analytics and GIS mapping.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French would be considered an asset, although it is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for a period of six months, with the possibility of extension subject to post and funds availability. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates or those based at the duty station. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards of integrity and efficiency in its recruitment process, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment.