Political Affairs Officer - United Nations Mission in Liberia

Mar 3, 2014 | United Nations

The UN requires a Political Affairs Officer to assist in the development of strategic partnerships between the Mission and relevant government entities and civil society to enhance the promotion of good governance and transparency measures in natural resources management.

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in political affairs, conflict resolution, or related field. Extensive experience in political outreach, facilitation, analysis, advice and reporting is required. Experience working in a United Nations common system field operation (inclusive of peacekeeping, political missions and UN agencies, funds, and programmes) - or similar international organization or non-governmental organization- in a conflict or post-conflict setting is required.

Political Analysis and Advice

- Identify, analyze and monitor political developments, trends and emerging issues in the natural resources sector of the country, according to the assigned portfolio and/or applicable mandate.

- Assess implications and make recommendations to senior management on possible policies, strategies and other measures to address issues of concern and to advance mandated objectives.

- Provide the Section with timely and quality strategic and policy advice on governance issues related to relevant aspects of natural resource management, especially in the diamond and gold mining, forestry, oil and agricultural sub-sectors.

- Assist in the development of strategic partnerships between the Mission and relevant government entities and civil society to enhance the promotion of good governance and transparency measures in natural resources management.

Reporting and Information Management

- Prepare summary and analytical reports including, but not limited to, situation reports, briefing notes, options papers, code cables and input for the reports of the Secretary-General to the Security Council, General Assembly or other bodies.

- Prepare contextual information materials, such as background notes, political profiles and databases of relevance to the assigned portfolio; Manage information to ensure its accessibility and utility.

Planning, Coordination and Facilitation

- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with UN Common System colleagues and counterparts, Government representatives, civil society actors, military and law enforcement actors, academic and research institutions, and other national and international partners on information-sharing, policy and coordination matters.

- Consult and cooperate with partners to develop strategies and plans of action to address political challenges in natural resources governance, in pursuit of shared objectives; Monitor, evaluate and report on implementation.

- Support preparations for official meetings, events and visits, including through the provision of Secretariat services and by drafting talking points and speeches for senior UN officials; Participate in fact-finding –and other- missions; Prepare written summaries of meetings/visits and assist with follow-up activities, as appropriate.

Management/Administration

- Contribute to the formulation and implementation of the unit’s programme of work.

- Support planning and budgetary processes for current and future field operations.

- Supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff; assist with the selection of new staff.

- Perform other relevant duties as required.