315 - National Israeli Affairs Analyst - Jerusalem

Application Type : External Vacancy
Job ID/Title : 315 - National Israeli Affairs Analyst
Category : Other
Brand : UNSCO
Post Level : ICS-9 (NO-B)
Application Deadline : 20-Apr-10
Duty Station : Jerusalem
Type of Contract :
Post Number :
(for 100 Series Contracts)
Languages Required :
English,
Starting Date :
(date when the selected canditate is expected to start)
Duration of Initial Contract : One year renewable
Expected Duration of Assignment :
Background:
Effective and enhanced Israeli-UN engagement is required on the Arab-Israeli conflict and the peace process; the conduct of mandated UN development, humanitarian and human rights activities in the occupied Palestinian territory; and Israeli participation in the UN's inter-governmental apparatus and UN field missions. UNSCO has the responsibility to lead and coordinate this engagement on the ground, both with the Israeli government and Israeli civil society, in a context of a mutual commitment to strengthen relations.
 
Within UNSCO, the Chief of Regional Affairs and the Regional Affairs Officer assigned to cover Israel engage politically in support of the Special Coordinator; the Deputy Special Coordinator and Coordination Unit engages Israeli authorities on the UN's operations in the oPt; and the Media Unit seeks to ensure the appropriate media profile for this work and to enhance public outreach.  
 
The National Israeli Affairs Officer will be a member of the Regional Affairs Unit (RAU) under the overall supervision of the Chief of the RAU and the daily guidance of the Regional Affairs Officer (Israel), and in liaison with the Chief of Public Information. The officer will have direct responsibility for widening and deepening outreach to broader Israeli civil society and improving awareness of the UN’s work and role. The officer will also provide support as required to UNSCO political engagement with the Israeli authorities and civil society.
Description of Responsibilities:
Under the overall supervision of the Chief, Regional Affairs and the daily guidance of the Regional Affairs Officer (Israel), and in liaison with the Chief, Public Information, the National Israeli Affairs Officer’s responsibilities will include:
  • Regular reporting and updates to the RAU on civil society initiatives of Israel-based NGOs, think tanks, policy institutions and academic institutions, conferences as well as activity in the Knesset regarding political initiatives and discussions in the relevant committees and sub-committees.
  • Liaison between these individuals/entities and UNSCO in order to facilitate a free flow of information between the UN and UN agencies and these groups and organizations. In addition to communication, the goal is also to raise the UN’s profile in the sectors mentioned above.
  • Provision of information, analysis, reporting and inputs as required to assist UN engagement with Israeli civil society and the Israeli authorities.
These responsibilities would be accomplished in a number of ways, including:  
  • Arranging regular meetings for UNSCO and/or UN personnel as appropriate with relevant individuals and representatives of groups and organizations.
  • Arranging briefings/seminars by UNSCO and other relevant UN personnel to members of these groups and organizations and vice versa.
  • In keeping abreast of academic conferences, ensure the appropriate level of UN participation. Participate in conferences as UN representative where appropriate.
  • Provide support to the Regional Affairs Officer in political engagement with the Israeli government in terms of information, analysis, reporting and inputs.
  • Liaise with the Media Unit to provide relevant support regarding public information and outreach initiatives.  
  • Liaise with the Coordination Unit to provide relevant support on programme engagement and access issues with the Israeli authorities.  
  • Assist with creating schedules and logistical support for UN visitors and assist in liaison with the relevant Israeli authorities.
  • Any other duties as assigned.
Competencies :
Corporate Competencies:
 
Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of the UN in Israel and the oPt
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
Treats all people fairly without favoritism
 
Functional Competencies:
 
In-depth knowledge of Israeli politics and foreign relations, civil society organizations, and society.
Ability to provide quality, precise, pertinent and contextualized information, analysis and insights on Israeli affairs and developments in a structured and timely manner.
Able to present UN positions and issues effectively and persuasively to a wide range of audiences.
 
Behavioral competencies
 
Ability to build strong relationships and effective networks both with Israel and UN counterparts.
Shows good judgment of people and situations and strong conflict resolution skills
 
Leadership and self-management
 
Focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to critical feedback
Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills
Ability to support formulation and evaluation of outreach strategies
Qualifications :
Education: Master degree in Political Science, Social Sciences, History, Law or other related fields
 
Experience: 2-3 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in political research, foreign policy issues, policy-level analysis, or equivalent.   
Strong analytical, communication, presentational, networking, teamwork, organisational and drafting skills.
 
Language Requirements: Fluency in English and Hebrew. Knowledge of Arabic an advantage.
“ UNDP/PAPP is an equal opportunity employer: applications from men and women will be considered equally”