Political Affairs Officer

About the role

The United Nations Executive Office of the Secretary‑General is seeking a Political Affairs Officer to support the Political, Peacekeeping, Humanitarian and Human Rights Unit. The role provides early‑warning political analysis and prepares briefing material for senior UN bodies and the Secretary‑General’s office.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse geographic or thematic political developments and deliver early‑warning advice to senior officials.
• Prepare analytical reports, background papers, talking points and correspondence for the EOSG, the General Assembly, the Security Council and other UN bodies.
• Support preparation for official meetings, events and visits involving EOSG leadership.
• Conduct in‑depth research on peacekeeping, humanitarian and human‑rights issues and follow up on trends in assigned regions.
• Provide incisive analysis to senior management to inform decision‑making on country situations and thematic files.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in political science, international relations, law, public administration or related field; a first‑level degree with relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum seven years of progressively responsible experience in political analysis, peace and security, conflict prevention, diplomacy, mediation, humanitarian or human‑rights work.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high‑quality analytical reports and briefings for senior management.
• Fluent English (UN Level III) and preferably French (UN Level III).
• Experience in Sub‑Saharan Africa and/or the Middle East and in transitional or post‑conflict settings is desirable.