Senior Political Affairs Officer

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Position Title: Senior Political Affairs Officer
Location: New York
Country: United States of America
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) at the United Nations Headquarters. The DPPA was established to support the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council in its efforts to maintain international peace and security. The department plays a crucial role in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding efforts globally. It operates in various countries, engaging with multiple stakeholders to promote political solutions to conflicts. The DPPA is committed to upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter and works collaboratively with other UN agencies and international organizations to achieve its mission. The department employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.

Job Overview:
The Senior Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for formulating political strategies and providing substantive support to the Security Council and its subsidiary organs. This role involves analyzing political issues, developing policy directives, and proposing action plans to address immediate and long-term political challenges. The incumbent will coordinate operational activities, manage programs requiring interdepartmental collaboration, and oversee the preparation of reports and briefing materials for senior UN officials. The position requires a strong understanding of international relations and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes. The officer will also be expected to lead a team, mentor staff, and represent the division at various international forums, ensuring that the UN's objectives are effectively communicated and pursued.

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

• Formulating and implementing political affairs strategies and policies related to the Security Council.
• Planning and coordinating operational activities and programs that involve multiple UN departments and agencies.
• Preparing briefing notes and reports for senior UN officials, including the Secretary-General.
• Supervising the drafting of reports to the Security Council and coordinating secretariat services for special conferences and summits.
• Providing guidance to intergovernmental bodies on organizational matters and negotiations.
• Leading a team, allocating work assignments, and evaluating staff performance.
• Conducting research on political issues relevant to the Security Council's agenda.
• Developing and maintaining relationships with senior government officials and advising them on mutual concerns.
• Responding to inquiries and managing operations involving various components, including civilian and military operations. 1
• Performing other related duties as required by the Chief of the Subsidiary Organs Branch.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in political science, international relations, or a related field, with a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in relevant areas such as law, disarmament, security, and conflict resolution. Experience in supporting UN sanctions issues and working in field-based missions is essential. Familiarity with UN budgetary policies and intergovernmental processes is required. The ability to manage teams and facilitate multi-stakeholder processes is also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and the incorporation of gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of international politics and the functioning of the United Nations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, and conflict resolution. Candidates should have experience working on UN sanctions issues and in field-based missions, as well as managing teams in a regional or global context. Experience in providing substantive support to the Security Council or its subsidiary organs is desirable, as is experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder processes.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile for this position. Proficiency in multiple languages is beneficial for engaging with diverse stakeholders and facilitating international dialogue.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, subject to the availability of the post and budgetary approval. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions throughout their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are advised to follow the application instructions carefully.