Senior Political Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is located within the Europe and Central Asia Division (ECAD) of the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) of the United Nations. The organization is dedicated to promoting peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the region, focusing on political developments and conflict resolution. The DPPA was established to support the UN's efforts in maintaining international peace and security, and it operates in various countries around the world, engaging with local governments, civil society, and international partners. The organization emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication among diverse stakeholders to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Senior Political Affairs Officer will lead and manage the DPPA Liaison Office in Kyiv, working closely with the ECAD Eastern Europe Team. The role involves providing analytical updates on political developments in Ukraine, particularly those affecting peace and security. The incumbent will be responsible for developing communication channels with senior government officials, political leaders, and civil society actors, ensuring that the UN's actions are informed by accurate and timely information. The position requires monitoring political and security developments, preparing briefing notes, and supporting the implementation of policies aligned with the DPPA's mandate. The officer will also participate in UN coordination mechanisms and provide political advice to the UN Country Team, ensuring that the office's work aligns with broader UN strategies and goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Political Affairs Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: providing regular analytical updates on political developments in Ukraine; developing and maintaining communication with key stakeholders; monitoring political and security developments; preparing briefing notes and analytical papers; identifying and supporting the implementation of policies and initiatives; participating in UN coordination mechanisms; providing political advice to the UN Country Team; coordinating with relevant UN agencies; undertaking travel for consultations; supporting missions and visits by DPPA officials; managing the liaison office team; overseeing research on political issues; ensuring security-related coordination; and representing DPPA at local and regional events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent political analysis skills and a strong understanding of conflict prevention and negotiations at the international level. They should have proven political work experience with European countries and organizations, particularly in Eastern Europe. Knowledge of UN conflict prevention and mediation mechanisms is essential, along with the ability to operate autonomously and manage complex operations. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, client orientation, vision, and sound judgment in decision-making.

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

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution, or a related area is required. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in field and liaison work with senior government and diplomatic partners in Eastern Europe, as well as experience in the UN supporting preventive diplomacy and peacebuilding efforts. Knowledge of Ukraine's current political situation is essential, and experience leading a multicultural team in complex political contexts is required.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Desirable languages include French, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), Spanish, and Arabic, with varying levels of proficiency required for each.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may require staff to move periodically to new functions. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The evaluation of candidates may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview.