Political Affairs and Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194

• Its mission is to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. ICAO has 193 member states and works with various stakeholders to ensure that civil aviation is safe, secure, and sustainable. The organization is committed to enhancing gender equality and the advancement of women, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal
• ICAO operates globally, providing legal advice and assistance to its member states and various bodies within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Political Affairs and Legal Officer (PLO) plays a crucial role within the Legal Affairs and External Relations Bureau of ICAO. This position involves providing legal advice and assistance on law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and external relations matters. The PLO will report directly to the Senior External Relations and Legal Officer and will be responsible for maintaining relationships with member states and other international organizations. The role requires a proactive approach, effective time management, and the ability to work under pressure. The PLO will also be involved in coordinating political inputs for high-level visits and ensuring consistency in ICAO's political positions across various offices and regional offices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PLO will perform a variety of duties, including maintaining liaison with member states and international organizations, representing ICAO at relevant meetings, and providing advice on privileges and immunities. The officer will also be responsible for collecting and analyzing information on international law and political affairs, monitoring UN resolutions, and preparing analytical reports on sensitive matters. Additionally, the PLO will assist in coordinating secretariat services for ICAO bodies, advise on protocol matters, and perform other related duties as assigned. This position requires a strong understanding of international law and the ability to navigate complex political environments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in international law. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience in international law may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Essential qualifications include a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in international law, with at least five years within the UN Common System. Experience in multilateral negotiations, mediation, and protocol management is also required. Desirable qualifications include experience in civil aviation issues and developing partnerships with public and private entities.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international law is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience in international law may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international law and its application within the context of civil aviation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in international law, with at least five years of that experience within the United Nations Common System. Candidates should have a strong background in multilateral negotiation, mediation, and inter-governmental processes, as well as experience in coordinating across multiple stakeholders in international settings. Experience in protocol or event management in both bilateral and multilateral contexts is also essential.

Languages:
Fluent reading, writing, and speaking abilities in English and French are mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of any other language of the Organization, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered desirable. Proficiency in multiple languages is beneficial for effective communication in a diverse international environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is to be filled on a fixed-term basis for an initial period of one year, with the first year serving as a probationary period for external candidates. ICAO staff members are international civil servants and may be assigned to various activities or offices within the organization. The ICAO offers an attractive benefits package in accordance with the policies of the International Civil Service Commission. The statutory retirement age for staff entering or re-entering service after January 1, 2014, is 65 years. The remuneration for this position is at the P-4 level, with a net base salary of USD $86,027 per annum, plus a post adjustment of USD $30,282 per annum, subject to change.