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Political Adviser

EUSR for Afghanistan

Kabul, Afghanistan

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ANNEX 1


Organisation:
EUSR Office for Afghanistan
Job Location:
Kabul, Afghanistan
Availability:
Political Adviser (1):
ASAP until 28 February 2015
(Potentially extendible into next Mandate from 1 March 2015)
Contract Regime:
Seconded by the Member State or European Institution/Internationally Contracted staff
Job Titles/Vacancy
Political Adviser
Number of posts:
1
Deadline for applications:
17:00 hrs, 25 August 2014
Email address to send the CV:
Office of the European Union Special Representative for Afghanistan
Information:
For more information related to the selection and recruitment, please contact: 
Asif.FARHAT@ext.eeas.europa.eu
The European External Action Service requests Member States and EU Institutions to consider seconding one Political Adviser 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

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.
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

Visas - Contributing countries and mission members, for seconded staff, must ensure that visas are obtained for entry into the mission area prior to departure from their home country. For contracted staff, visas are facilitated by the EUSR Office.
Security Clearance required - To have a national security clearance at "EU SECRET" level or equivalent. Or to obtain this on arrival in case of successful contracted candidate, in which case a basic security clearance will be requested in advance.
Driving Licence – Be in possession of a valid civilian driving licence for motor vehicles (Category B or equivalent).

D. Desirable

Diplomatic Status - To facilitate free movement, credibility and access.
Diplomatic or Service Passport - From their respective national authorities.

E. Job Description

Job Description

Under the guidance of the EUSR, the Political Adviser 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;
  • Perform other duties as and when required;
  • The position of Political Advisor is subject to the needs of the EUSR office in view of the current political, economic and security situation in Afghanistan. The contents and scope of the position may therefore change during the posting accordingly.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Subject matter expertise in either domestic and regional political dynamics; or government of Afghanistan Governance structures at national and sub-national level; Reintegration & Reconciliation is desirable;
  • Masters degree (5-year or equivalent) 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.
In order to apply for this position, please click here to fill out the application form and submit it to the following email address: delegation-afghanistan-eusr-recruitment@eeas.europa.eu.