Political Affairs Officer
Assist in monitoring and reporting on political aspects in Somalia.
Overview
Assist in monitoring and reporting on political aspects in Somalia.
You have:
- First level university degree in political science, international relations, international law or related fields is required.
- An advanced degree would be desirable.
- At least 8 years work experience for the first level degree.
- 5 years' experience in a related field with Government, NGO, think tank, or similar multi-lateral, regional or international institution.
- Fluency in English (written and spoken) and Somali language are required.
- Computer literate and well versed in the use of the Internet, Power Point, Excel and Word.
- Ability to work closely with governments, NGOs and multi-lateral institutions in complex political affairs, peace and security undertakings.
- Ability to work in a hardship context, travel regionally within Somalia in a high pressure and sometimes hazardous environment.
Result of Service To work in a full-time capacity in the ATMIS Political Affairs Unit to assist in monitoring, reporting and analyzing all political aspects of the political, peace and reconciliation process, including the implementation of the Somalia Transition Plan (STP), finalization of constitutional review process, and preparations for one person one vote elections in 2026, and reporting on related developments across Somalia. Also, to follow up on all political, conflict prevention and peacemaking/reconciliation initiatives and assist in facilitating the work of the ATMIS in political affairs as directed, including in the preparation of drafts, briefs, meetings, reports, training/capacity building, and outreach events.
Work Location Mogadishu
Expected duration The consultancy is for a period of six (06) months with a possibility of renewal depending on the availability of funds and satisfactory performance.
Duties and Responsibilities The National Consultant will be working in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) Political Affairs Unit and be reporting to the Senior Political Affairs Officer. Consultant will carry out the following duties:
- Assist in the drafting of reports of the SRCC to the Chairperson of the AU Commission;
- Assist in preparation of talking points, speeches, memos and briefing notes for meetings and other correspondences for senior officials; •Monitor and report on political and related developments and progress of ATMIS' operation in Somalia; •Update knowledge of political, security and related events as they affect ATMIS in Somalia, as well as regionally and internationally; •Identify and provide early warning briefs on potential challenges to the implementation of ATMIS' mandate, the Somalia Transition Plan, Somalia's national priorities, and make recommendations as appropriate;
Act as focal point for collection and analysis of data and information on political issues; •Liaise as appropriate with other sections of ATMIS mission as required and under direction; •Develop networks with government institutions and officials, civil society organizations, and partners, in Mogadishu and in the Federal Member States, on political and related matters; •Perform any other duties as directed by supervisor(s).
Qualifications/special skills Skills: •Ability to work closely with governments, NGOs and multi-lateral institutions in complex political affairs, peace and security undertakings. •Computer literate and well versed in the use of the Internet, Power Point, Excel and Word. •Excellent writing, negotiating, analytical and communication skills. •Ability to work in a multicultural setting. •Must be prepared to work in a hardship context, travel regionally within Somalia in a high pressure and sometimes hazardous environment. Academic Qualifications: First level university degree in political science, international relations, international law or related fields is required. An advanced degree would be desirable. Experience: At least 8 years work experience for the first level degree and 5 years' experience in a related field with Government, NGO, think tank, or similar multi-lateral, regional or international institution. Language: English and French are the working languages of the UN and AU. For this specific consultancy, fluency in English (written and spoken) and Somali language are required.
No Fee THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe a situation where you had to analyze a complex political issue and report on it? | This question assesses your analytical and reporting skills in a political context. | Provide a clear example, detailing the issue, your analysis process, and the outcome. |
| How would you handle conflicts between different stakeholders in a political environment? | The interviewer wants to evaluate your negotiation and interpersonal skills. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies do you use to stay informed about political developments? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you provide an example of how you supported a reconciliation initiative? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you prioritize tasks in a high-pressure work environment, especially in political affairs? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |