Political Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is within the United Nations, specifically under the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General (PESG) for Sudan. The UN is an international organization founded in 1945, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries. The organization has a vast network of operations across the globe, with numerous employees working in various capacities to address global challenges. The UN aims to foster international collaboration to solve problems such as conflict, poverty, and human rights violations, and it operates in multiple countries worldwide, including conflict zones like Sudan.

Job Overview:
The Political Affairs Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan, focusing on political engagement and mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This position requires a deep understanding of the political landscape in Sudan and the surrounding region, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials and international partners. The officer will be responsible for planning and implementing operational activities related to political affairs, conflict prevention, and resolution, ensuring that a rights-based and gender-sensitive approach is integrated into all initiatives. The role demands strong analytical skills to assess political situations and provide strategic advice to senior officials, as well as the ability to draft comprehensive reports and briefing materials. The officer will also coordinate research and analysis on political and security issues, represent the team at various forums, and contribute to the formulation of the unit's work program and budget.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Political Affairs Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: planning and implementing operational activities related to political affairs and conflict resolution; providing technical expertise on security stabilization arrangements; coordinating research and analysis on political and security issues; preparing briefing notes and talking points for senior officials; advising on negotiation strategies and managing operations involving multiple components; developing and maintaining relationships with government officials; designing conflict resolution and mediation initiatives; assisting in planning and supporting inter-agency programs; and performing other related duties as required. The officer will also be expected to demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills in all aspects of their work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a thorough knowledge of the UN's role in preventive diplomacy, mediation, and conflict resolution. They should have a strong understanding of the political and security dynamics in Sudan and the region, along with the ability to evaluate complex political situations and build effective relationships with stakeholders. Excellent drafting and analytical skills are essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and prioritize tasks effectively. The officer must also be committed to incorporating gender perspectives into their work and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, social science, economics, law, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, 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 seven years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution, or a related area is required. This includes at least two years of field experience in political affairs within a UN peace operation or a similar international organization, as well as experience in conflict or post-conflict settings. Candidates should also have a minimum of three years of experience in political outreach, facilitation, analysis, advice, and reporting, with specific experience in supporting good offices or mediation efforts as part of a political or peace process. Experience working on security arrangements, ceasefires, and cessation of hostilities agreements is also required, with a preference for candidates who have worked on peace and security issues in the Horn of Africa, including Sudan.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, while French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Arabic is considered desirable for this role, enhancing the officer's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders in the region. Candidates should consult the UN Language Framework for specific language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and is likely to be a full-time role. The job may involve travel to conflict-affected areas and requires a commitment to the principles of the United Nations. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UN standards, and the position may involve working collaboratively with various international and local partners.