Gender Affairs Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Gender Affairs Officer
Location: Abyei
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Chief of Staff of the United Nations Interim security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). UNISFA is a United Nations peacekeeping mission established to maintain peace and security in the Abyei Area, which is a disputed region between Sudan and South Sudan. The mission aims to support the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance. UNISFA operates in a challenging environment classified as an 'E' hardship duty station and is a non-family duty station, indicating the unique challenges and risks associated with working in this area. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women in peacekeeping operations, reflecting the broader mission of the United Nations to uphold human rights and foster sustainable peace.

Job Overview:
The Gender Affairs Officer will play a crucial role in supporting and guiding the implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace and Security, as well as policies on gender equality within Peacekeeping Operations. The officer will contribute to the development and execution of a mission-wide action plan aimed at translating existing mandates and policies into practical actions that promote gender equality across all activities of the peacekeeping mission. This position requires collaboration with various mission components to formulate and implement gender-sensitive policies and programs, particularly those aimed at combating gender-based violence. The officer will also be responsible for drafting and providing substantive inputs for reports, briefings, and speeches related to women, peace, and security issues, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into all aspects of the mission's work. Additionally, the officer will conduct research and analysis on gender issues, monitor progress, and provide training on gender-related topics to personnel at all levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Gender Affairs Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace and Security; contributing to the mission-wide action plan for gender equality; guiding mission components in formulating gender-sensitive policies; drafting reports and briefings on gender issues; delivering gender training for personnel; conducting research and analysis on gender issues in peacekeeping; collaborating with UN agencies and local organizations; representing the mission on gender-related issues; supervising staff as needed; providing inputs for planning processes; and promoting the inclusion of prevention and response activities related to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). The officer will also participate in mission inspections and assessments, providing technical assistance on gender issues to national authorities and ensuring that gender perspectives are incorporated into all mission activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in international relations, human rights law, or gender studies, with a focus on conflict or post-conflict settings. The position requires at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in policy advice and program management related to gender equality, particularly within international organizations. Proven expertise in integrating gender perspectives into policies and programs is essential, along with in-depth knowledge of the United Nations' work in peacekeeping and a thorough understanding of gender issues, including gender mainstreaming and sexual and gender-based violence. The ability to prepare analytical reports and engage with various stakeholders is also crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in development studies, social studies, international relations, human rights law, gender studies, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree, indicating that candidates with a bachelor's degree and relevant experience may still be considered for the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in policy advice and program management related to gender equality, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings. Candidates should have proven expertise in integrating gender perspectives into mainstream policies or programs, as well as in-depth knowledge of the United Nations' operations, especially in peacekeeping contexts. Experience working in or supporting a field operation of the United Nations or a comparable international organization is desirable, highlighting the need for practical experience in challenging environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the UN system and with French-speaking stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a non-family duty station, indicating that staff members are not permitted to bring family members to the duty station. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process, encouraging female candidates to apply strongly. The organization adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated based on their qualifications and organizational needs. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and the United Nations is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.