Mission and objectives

The mandate of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) was established by the Security Council in its resolution 1244 (1999). The primary and overarching objectives of UNMIK are to ensure conditions for a peaceful and normal life for all inhabitants of Kosovo, strengthen and consolidate peace, security, and stability, and promote and protect human rights for all people.

Context

All reference to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999)

Task Description

Under the overall guidance of the Head of the Mitrovica Regional Office (MRO), the Political Affairs Officer has the following responsibilities: - Compile and/or draft reports or report inputs, including daily reports, code cables, and briefing notes. - Produce notes to the file, talking points, and background notes as required. - Monitor specific aspects of mandate implementation with periodic travel throughout the Area of Responsibility (AoR). - Maintain up-to-date knowledge of events in the region, particularly as they relate to political events and trends affecting implementation of the mission’s mandate, - Including through coordination and communication with other MRO sections and, as necessary, United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK ) headquarters and local counterparts. - Gather, select, and analyse information contained in communications and publications. - Keep abreast of the latest trends and developments and provide inputs on issues as tasked. - Perform other related duties as required.

Competencies and values

Integrity and professionalism: demonstrated expertise in area of specialty and ability to apply good judgment; high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures in a politically sensitive environment, while exercising discretion, impartiality and neutrality; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented; Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity and gender; Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; ability to maintain composure and remain helpful towards the staff, but objective, without showing personal interest; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups.

Living conditions and remarks

Kosovo is located in the Balkans mountain range of south-eastern Europe. The climate is continental, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Houses/Apartments are easily available and generally have electricity and running water, although this may not be 24 hours. Costs are reasonable, but vary according to location - i.e. city centre vs. outlying villages. Upon arrival, you will reside in a hotel until you get permanent housing. The UNV Field Unit can assist in identify suitable housing. There are no specific health problems associated with Kosovo, and no vaccines are required prior to arrival. UNMIK provides contracted medical service to its staff should anyone fall ill. There is a great deal of pollution. Mitrovica is ethnically-mixed area of Kosovo, with infrequent protests that occur depending upon the political/security situation. Foods and dietary needs of all kinds are available in the many supermarkets. There are market places that cater fruits and vegetables, and bakeries offer some exquisite pastries and breads. Fresh fish and meat are also easily available.