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Political Affairs Officer - Political Affairs Division (PAD) - Asia/Europe Section

Reference: 120100373
Location: London, UK
Closing Date: 17 Feb 2012

General Information

The Political Affairs Division (PAD) is the lead division in the Secretariat’s programme for the promotion of democracy and good governance in the Commonwealth. The division is responsible to the Deputy Secretary-General responsible for political work and also works closely with the Secretary-General, providing them with advice and support on all political issues. Its work ranges from monitoring and analysis of political developments and the preparation of briefings, to the organisation of election observation and the provision of technical assistance to build/strengthen democratic institutions, to supporting the Secretary-General’s ‘good offices’ role. The work is often of great sensitivity and involves demanding timetables.

PAD is also responsible for organising and servicing the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM) the annual meeting of Commonwealth Foreign Ministers and meetings of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG).

Job Summary

The Political Affairs Officer contributes to the development of the Secretariat’s policy on political affairs by monitoring relevant developments in selected Commonwealth countries in the Asia/Europe regions, and providing policy advice and other forms of support to senior staff, under the immediate supervision of the Head of Section. He/she also assists with logistical and substantive support to relevant inter-governmental meetings.

Key Accountabilities

The post-holder:

  • Monitors international developments relevant to Commonwealth countries in the Asia and Europe regions and contributes to the development of the Secretariat’s policy in the assigned region by way of advice and recommendations;
  • Coordinates and edits material prepared by other Secretariat divisions for briefing the Secretary-General and other senior Secretariat officers, or for distribution to member countries;
  • Supports the Secretary-General and other senior officers by travelling with them on mission when called upon to do so.
  • Supports and assists the preparation and coordination of intergovernmental meetings arranged by the Political Affairs Division to ensure their professional implementation by editing and co-ordinating documentation for such meetings, as well as preparation of minutes;
  • Prepares briefs, background papers, short-term research projects and longer term in depth research studies on a range of relevant issues as required;
  • Carries out short-term research on a range of relevant issues, as directed;
  • Participates in seminars and other colloquia on relevant issues organised by various institutions in both government and non-government sectors
  • Works as a collaborative member of the Asia / Europe Section and the wider Political Affairs Division by, where, relevant, supporting good offices and election observer missions, and performing other duties that may be required from time to time.

Person Specification

Education:

A degree in a relevant subject, such as political science or international relations.

Desirable: A postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject

Experience:

Five years’ work experience, including research and drafting, in the field of international affairs, preferably gained in an international organisation or government department with expertise in developing countries; familiarity with Asia and / or Europe regions.

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