UNMIK·May 22, 2026

Political Affairs Officer

The incumbent works in the Office of Political Affairs (OPA) under the supervision of the Head of the Office. The UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: - Maintain up-to-date knowledge of events relating to th...

On-siteInternationalSpecialist UCoS from Apr202616. Peace, justice and strong institutions
On-site

Kosovo (UNSC 1244)

Pristina

Duration

365 days

Extendable

Positions

1 Available

Deadline

Jun 5, 2026

6 days left

🎯

Sustainable Development Goal

16. Peace, justice and strong institutions

General Information

Description of assignment title

Political Affairs Officer

Assignment country

Kosovo (UNSC 1244)

Expected start date

Jul 1, 2026

Sustainable Development Goal

16. Peace, justice and strong institutions

Volunteer category

Specialist UCoS from Apr2026

Host entity

UNMIK

Type

onsite

Duration

365 days
(with possibility of extension)

Number of assignments

1

Duty stations

Pristina

Assignment Details

Mission and Objectives

The mandate of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) was established by the Security Council in its resolution 1244 (1999). The primary and overarching objectives of UNMIK are to ensure conditions for a peaceful and normal life for all inhabitants of Kosovo, strengthen and consolidate peace, security, and stability, and promote and protect human rights for all people.

Context

All reference to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999.

Task Description

The incumbent works in the Office of Political Affairs (OPA) under the supervision of the Head of the Office. The UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: - Maintain up-to-date knowledge of events relating to the political situation in Kosovo, particularly as they affect the operational area for which the staff member is responsible - Gather, select, and analyze information contained in communications and publications. - Keep abreast of the latest political trends and developments and provide inputs on issues as tasked. - Compile and draft daily, monthly, and quarterly political situation reports to United Nations Headquarters (UNHQ ) as required. - Produce notes to the files and other reports, including for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG ) if required; - Draft talking points and background notes as guided by OPA; - Work closely with local staff to produce high-quality reports based on up-to-date information and astute political analysis. - Produce timely, concise, well-written reports within the mandate of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). Task description - Monitor Kosovo Albanian and Kosovo Serb political parties and dynamics - Serve as a focal point on Comprehensive Planning and Accountability System (CPAS), Action for Peacekeeping Plus (A4P+), Results-Based Budgeting (RBB ), and other tracking and reporting mechanisms. - Attend round table discussions, seminars, and workshops on subjects pertaining to the work of UNMIK. - Provide technical and substantive backup in the implementation of mandates of the Office of Political Affairs and Office of the Chief of Staff as required. - Maintain contacts with other components of the Mission and the UN Kosovo team, international partners, and government authorities on political, coordination, and policy matters; - Monitor actions taken by intergovernmental groups, United Nations (UN ) organizations, government, and non-governmental organizations within the assigned area of responsibility; - Define work plan for the area assigned in accordance with established terms of reference; - Attend events related to the mandate of the Mission as required. - Coordinate work with staff members in OPA and other substantive offices of the Mission as needed.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

18 - 80

Required experience

0 years

Nationality

Open to all nationalities

Assignment Requirements

Relevant experience

0 years

Language Requirements
EnglishRequired
Fluent
Required education level

Bachelor's degree

Area(s) of expertise

Elections and governance

Driving license

-

Competencies and values
Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility; Commitment to Continuous Learning; Communication; Integrity; Planning and Organizing; Professionalism; Respect for Diversity; Working in Teams.
Skills and experience
Experience: · Experience in political affairs, international relations, diplomacy, peacekeeping, conflict analysis, development cooperation, or related fields is required. · Experience in political analysis, drafting analytical reports, briefing notes, talking points, or situation reports is required. · Experience working with UN entities, governments, or NGO partners in complex or high-risk environments is desirable. Experience working in peacekeeping contexts, including experience with related reporting systems (including CPAS, A4P+, and Results-Based Budgeting frameworks) is considered an advantage. · Experience in stakeholder coordination and liaison with international organizations, government institutions, civil society, and/or diplomatic actors is desirable. · Previous experience in the Western Balkans region or familiarity with the political context of Kosovo is considered an advantage. · Experience in information management, data management, GIS & mapping, data visualization, or other related areas is desirable. Skills: · Strong analytical and drafting skills, including the ability to produce concise and accurate political reports under tight deadlines. · Excellent research, communication, and interpersonal skills. · Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment. · Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. · Demonstrated ability to maintain professional networks and coordinate with a wide range of stakeholders. · Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. · Knowledge of data analysis, reporting, and visualization tools is desirable. Area of Expertise: - Political affairs and political analysis - Conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and mediation support - Elections and governance - Stakeholder coordination and liaison

Additional Information

Living conditions and remarks
Kosovo is located in the Western Balkans mountain range of south-eastern Europe. The climate is continental, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Houses/Apartments are easily available and generally have electricity and running water, although this may not be 24 hours. Costs are reasonable, but vary according to location - i.e. city centre vs. outlying villages. Upon arrival, you will reside in a hotel until you get permanent housing. The UNV Field Unit can assist in identify suitable housing. There are no specific health problems associated with Kosovo, and no vaccines are required prior to arrival. UNMIK provides contracted medical service to its staff should anyone fall ill. There is a great deal of pollution. Mitrovica is ethnically-mixed area of Kosovo, with infrequent protests that occur depending upon the political/security situation. Foods and dietary needs of all kinds are available in the many supermarkets. There are market places that cater fruits and vegetables, and bakeries offer some exquisite pastries and breads. Fresh fish and meat are also easily available.
Inclusivity statement

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Note on Covid-19 vaccination requirements

Selected candidates for certain occupational groups may be subject to vaccination requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19), in line with the applicable host entity policy.

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