Special Assistant, Political Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The position is within the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), which aims to support the Central African Republic in its transition towards peace and stability. The UN has been involved in the region for several years, focusing on humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping, and political support. The mission operates under the guidance of the Secretary-General and is committed to upholding human rights and fostering sustainable development in the region. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various international and local partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant, Political Affairs will play a crucial role in supporting the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in implementing the mission's mandate as outlined by the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council. This position requires a strong focus on enhanced reporting and analytical requirements, particularly in relation to Security Council resolution 2800 (2025). The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating the preparation of reports and senior-level outputs, ensuring that all inputs are coherent and aligned with UN standards. The role demands a high level of political sensitivity and the ability to provide clear, concise analysis to inform decision-making processes. The Special Assistant will also maintain effective relationships with various stakeholders, including national authorities and international partners, to facilitate coordination and information sharing. Additionally, the role involves organizing high-level meetings and engagements, ensuring that all necessary preparations are made for successful outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Special Assistant will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the SRSG in implementing the mission's mandate and enhancing reporting requirements.
• Coordinating the preparation of Security Council reports and senior-level outputs, ensuring coherence and alignment with UN standards.
• Ensuring quality control and timeliness of submissions to Headquarters and the Security Council.
• Advising the SRSG on emerging issues and proposing policy options.
• Establishing tracking mechanisms to monitor decisions and commitments from Security Council engagements.
• Drafting and reviewing official documentation for the SRSG’s signature.
• Maintaining liaison with national authorities, political actors, and civil society organizations.
• Organizing high-level meetings and engagements led by the SRSG.
• Coordinating actions related to mission transition phases. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the SRSG’s Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, teamwork, and sound judgment. They should show pride in their work, be efficient in meeting commitments, and be motivated by professional concerns. The ability to develop clear goals and adjust priorities as needed is essential. Candidates should also be able to work collaboratively with colleagues and support group decisions, even when they may not fully align with personal views. Strong decision-making skills are necessary, including the ability to identify key issues and gather relevant information before making decisions.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Political Science, Management, Development, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two 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 affairs, international relations, diplomacy, peace and security, or conflict resolution is required. Candidates should have experience in drafting analytical reports and policy papers for senior leadership, as well as coordinating inputs across multiple stakeholders. Experience in preparing reports for the Secretary-General or submissions to the Security Council is desirable, along with experience in handling sensitive political issues under tight deadlines. Familiarity with field operations of the United Nations or comparable organizations in conflict settings is also desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required, with candidates expected to meet the minimum required level for each skill according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The job does not specify the contract duration or seniority level, but it is implied that the position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description.