Overview

The Political Affairs Officer will monitor and report on major developments in North Africa, recommending actions to address challenges, risks, and threats. The role supports UN missions and senior officials in the region.

Tasks Summary

• Gathers, selects and analyses information on North Africa.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of political issues affecting assigned countries and mandates.
• Assists senior officials with briefing notes, background papers and talking points.
• Provides back-stopping of UN missions in the region.
• Maintains contacts with other sectors of the UN, international and regional organizations and Member States.
• Participates in fact-finding and other missions.
• Supports participation of senior officials in meetings.
• Prepares meetings of senior UN officials with officials from countries under NAD's purview.

Experience Requirements

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, disarmament, security, development management, conflict resolution or related area is required. Experience working on political or peace and security issues related to North Africa or the wider region is required. Experience working in or providing support to a field operation (special political mission, peacekeeping operation or similar) at the international level is desirable. Experience providing support and advice to senior officials in an international and/or multigovernmental organisation is desirable.

Qualification Requirements

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, international economics, law, public administration or other related. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.