Contract Regime: Seconded by the Member State or European Institution / Contracted
Job Titles/Vacancy Reference: Political Expert
Number of posts: 1
Deadline for applications: 17:00 hrs, 18/10/2012
Email address to send the Annex 2:
Office of the European Union Special Representative for Afghanistan
e-mail: Delegation-afghanistan-eusr-recruitment@eeas.europa.eu
The Annex 2 Application form is available at:
http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/afghanistan/about_us/vacancies/index_en.htm. Please note that due to the number of applications, only those short-listed for interview will be contacted.
The General Secretariat of the Council of the EU requests Member States and EU Institutions to consider seconding two Political Experts for the team of the EUSR in Afghanistan, according to the described requirements and profiles:
A. Essential Requirements
Citizenship - Citizen of a member state of the European Union (EU) and enjoying full rights as a citizen.Integrity - The participants must maintain the highest standards of personal integrity, impartiality and self-discipline. Participants are not allowed to provide or discuss any information or document as a result of access to classified and/or sensitive information related to the mission or respective tasks and activities. The participants shall carry out their duties and act in the interests of the mission.
Physical and mental health - Physically fit and in good health without any physical or mental problems or substance dependency which can impair operational performance in the mission.
Negotiation Skills - The participants must have excellent negotiating skills and the ability to work professionally in a stressful and diverse environment. The ability to work in a demanding, deadline-driven environment and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people of different national and cultural backgrounds is crucial.
Flexibility and adaptability - Be able to work in arduous conditions with a limited network of support. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Good networking abilities.
Ability to communicate effectively in English – The candidates must be fully fluent in written and oral English language. Report writing ability, analysis, drafting and editing skills are especially needed.
Computer Skills - Skills in word processing, spreadsheets and email systems are essential. Knowledge of other IT tools will be an asset.
B. Recommended Requirements or Experience
Diplomatic Status - To facilitate free movement, credibility and access.Knowledge of the EU Institutions - To have knowledge of the EU Institutions and international standards, particularly related to the Common Foreign and Security Policy, including the Common Security and Defence Policy (desirable).
International Experience - To have international experience, particularly in crisis areas with multi-national and international organisations.
Professional Experience – To have a degree in political science, social sciences, international relations or law and at least two years of professional experience in the field of political analysis and reporting.
Local Experience – To have strong familiarity with the political, historical and cultural context of Afghanistan.
Language skills - knowledge of Dari or Pashtu will be a distinct advantage.
C. Essential Documents and Requirements for the Selected Candidates
Passport - The participants must obtain a diplomatic or service passport from their respective national authorities.Visas - Contributing countries and mission members must ensure that visas are obtained for entry into the mission area prior to departure from their home country.
Security Clearance required - To have or obtain a national security clearance at "EU SECRET" level or equivalent.
Driver Licence – Be in possession of a valid civilian drivers licence for motor vehicles (Category B or equivalent).
D. Job Description
Job Description
Under the guidance of the EUSR, the Political Expert will:- Monitor the main political, security and economic developments, including dynamics of regional cooperation by maintaining an extensive and active network of Afghan and international interlocutors;
- Analyse and report on a wide range of political, economic and security developments, notably reconciliation and reintegration, counter-terrorism, tribal and factional politics;
- Maintain close working relations with EU and other Embassies, relevant international organisations, notably UN and NATO, civil society organisations, and other partners to ensure proper co-ordination and partnership;
- Travel to the regions on a frequent basis to gather information and liaise with partners;
- Perform other duties as and when required.
Qualifications and Experience
- Subject matter expertise in either domestic and regional political dynamics; government of Afghanistan Governance structures at national and sub-national level; Reintegration & Reconciliation is desirable;
- Masters degree in Political Science, International Economics, International Relations or Law;
- At least two years of professional experience in a similar position in an international environment (diplomacy, research or political analysis);
- Extensive experience in political analysis and reporting;
- Experience in or good knowledge of Afghanistan;
- Excellent command of English, including the ability to draft and edit reports;
- Knowledge of Dari or Pashto is an asset.
