Senior Political Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position 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 conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding efforts. The DPPA was established to enhance the UN's capacity to prevent conflict and sustain peace, and it operates in various countries across Europe and Central Asia, working closely with member states and regional organizations. The organization emphasizes the importance of collaboration with civil society and international partners to achieve its mission. The DPPA has a diverse workforce, comprising professionals from various backgrounds and expertise, committed to addressing complex political challenges in the region.

Job Overview:
The Senior Political Affairs Officer will lead and manage the DPPA Liaison Office in Kyiv, coordinating with the ECAD Eastern Europe Team. The incumbent will be responsible for providing regular analytical updates on political developments in Ukraine, which are crucial for peace and security, and will include recommendations for early warning actions and strategic advice for UN actions. The role requires developing and maintaining communication channels with senior government officials, political party leaders, civil society actors, and the diplomatic community. The officer will monitor political and security developments, prepare briefing notes, and support the implementation of policies and initiatives aligned with DPPA priorities. This position demands a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders and contribute to the UN's efforts in conflict resolution and peacebuilding in Ukraine.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Political Affairs Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Providing regular analytical updates on political developments in Ukraine and their implications for peace and security.
• Developing and maintaining communication with senior government officials, political leaders, and civil society actors.
• Monitoring political and security developments and providing regular reporting to DPPA-ECAD.
• Preparing briefing notes and inputs for analytical papers for senior UN officials.
• Identifying and supporting the implementation of policies and initiatives consistent with DPPA priorities.
• Participating in UN coordination mechanisms and providing political briefings as needed.
• Offering political advice and support to the UN Country Team and coordinating with relevant agencies.
• Undertaking travel across Ukraine for consultations and supporting missions by DPPA officials.
• Managing the liaison office team and overseeing programmatic work, including recruitment and administrative matters. 1
• Coordinating research on political issues in Ukraine and ensuring information-sharing with DPPA-ECAD. 1
• Representing DPPA in local and regional conferences and meetings. 1
• Performing other functions as required.

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, and a deep understanding of the conflict situation in Ukraine. Knowledge of UN conflict prevention and mediation mechanisms is essential, along with diplomatic and representational skills. The ability to operate autonomously and manage complex operations is crucial. 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 must have demonstrated experience in field and liaison work with senior government and diplomatic partners in Eastern Europe. Experience in the United Nations supporting preventive diplomacy, mediation, and peacebuilding is essential, along with a proven track record in conducting political analysis and producing high-quality analytical products. Familiarity with Ukraine's current political situation is required, and experience working with humanitarian, development, and civil society partners is desirable.

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, or Arabic, with varying levels of proficiency required for each.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 December 202

• If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds and budgetary approval. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.