Interim Political Affairs Officer, Political Affairs Division, Asia/Europe Section
Reference: 110700345
Duration: Three months
Closing Date: 12 Aug 2011
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. It’s 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 Interim Political Affairs Officer has specific responsibility for monitoring developments in selected Commonwealth countries in the Asia/Europe regions, and providing policy advice and other forms of support to the Director of PAD, under the immediate supervision of the Head of Section.
Task description
The post-holder:
- Monitors international developments, relevant to Commonwealth member states in the Asia and Europe regions;
- Prepares briefs, background papers, short-term research projects and longer term in depth research studies on a range of international issues;
- Contributes to the development of the Secretariat’s policy in the assigned region by way of advice and recommendations;
- Assists in arrangements for meetings of Heads of Government, Foreign Ministers, the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group and other high-level bodies on matters covered by the Division, including the preparation, editing and co-ordination of documentation for such meetings, as well as preparation of minutes;
- Keeps abreast of academic and other research in specialised areas which have a bearing on professional duties; develops expertise on specialized subjects that assume importance in the Commonwealth context;
- Participates in seminars and other colloquia on relevant issues organised by various institutions in both government and non-government sectors;
- Represents the Secretariat at external meetings and events as required.
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