Armed Groups and Regional Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations, specifically the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs. The UN was established in 1945 with the mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. It operates in over 190 countries and employs thousands of individuals across various sectors, focusing on humanitarian aid, development, and peacekeeping efforts.

Job Overview:
The position of Armed Groups and Regional Expert involves serving on a Panel that reports to the Sanctions Committee and the Security Council. The Expert will work under the guidance of the Subsidiary Organs Branch of the Security Council Affairs Division. The role requires a deep understanding of the sanctions regime, particularly concerning Al-Shabaab, and entails monitoring sanctions measures, investigating alleged violations, and providing analytical reports on political developments relevant to the Panel's mandate. The Expert will also contribute to the preparation of recommendations for improved implementation of Security Council resolutions and engage in outreach activities to strengthen the capacities of States in enforcing sanctions. This position is home-based with travel expected, and it is anticipated to be available from January 1, 2027, until December 31, 2027, subject to renewal and funding availability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Armed Groups and Regional Expert include:

• Monitoring sanctions measures and investigating alleged violations related to armed groups, particularly Al-Shabaab.
• Analyzing national, regional, and international political developments relevant to the Panel's mandate.
• Reporting on violations of the sanctions regime through written products for the Al-Shabaab Sanctions Committee and the Security Council.
• Preparing recommendations for improved implementation of Security Council resolutions based on investigations and outreach activities.
• Compiling information on individuals and entities potentially violating the Al-Shabaab sanctions regime.
• Delivering briefings and presentations on the sanctions regime and the Panel's activities.
• Identifying areas for capacity strengthening among States to enhance sanctions implementation.
• Ensuring reports adhere to high standards of evidence and methodology.
• Providing due process to Member States and individuals during investigations. 1
• Participating in the preparation of the Panel's work program and updating it regularly. 1
• Engaging in investigative missions and consultations to gather information from various stakeholders. 1
• Classifying and archiving materials obtained during investigations. 1
• Submitting an End of Assignment Report at the end of the mandate. 1
• Abiding by UN rules and regulations and managing correspondence related to responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include:

• An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in military science, political science, international relations, law, journalism, or a related field. A first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
• A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in a relevant field, including at least three years of field experience.
• Significant field experience in post-conflict or transitional situations.
• Strong field research or investigative experience in the area of expertise.
• Experience in writing high-quality reports.
• Proven interpersonal skills in complex political environments.
• A demonstrated understanding of sanctions regimes in a UN or regional organization context is highly desirable.
• Experience working under UN rules and regulations is also highly desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in military science, political science, international relations, law, journalism, or other relevant areas. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in the relevant field, which must include at least three years of field experience. Candidates should have significant field experience in post-conflict or transitional situations, as well as strong field research or investigative experience in their area of expertise.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, and familiarity with Somali and/or local Somali dialects is also advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This is a level C consultancy position as defined by the United Nations. The position requires travel to engage with government officials and other stakeholders, and all travel will be in Economy Class. Geographical diversity is a strong consideration, and women are particularly encouraged to apply. Candidates are encouraged to apply to the Security Council Affairs Division Pool of Experts, and those registered in the Pool will be contacted directly for relevant opportunities. Candidates should ensure that all work experience and diplomas are listed in the application, as only those mentioned will be considered for screening. The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.