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

The incumbent works in the Office of Political Affairs (OPA) under the supervision of the Head of the Office. The UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: - Maintain up-to-date knowledge of events relating to the political situation in Kosovo, particularly as they affect the operational area for which the staff member is responsible - Gather, select, and analyze information contained in communications and publications. - Keep abreast of the latest political trends and developments and provide inputs on issues as tasked. - Compile and draft daily, monthly, and quarterly political situation reports to United Nations Headquarters (UNHQ ) as required. - Produce notes to the files and other reports, including for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG ) if required; - Draft talking points and background notes as guided by OPA; - Work closely with local staff to produce high-quality reports based on up-to-date information and astute political analysis. - Produce timely, concise, well-written reports within the mandate of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). Task description - Monitor Kosovo Albanian and Kosovo Serb political parties and dynamics - Serve as a focal point on Comprehensive Planning and Accountability System (CPAS), Action for Peacekeeping Plus (A4P+), Results-Based Budgeting (RBB ), and other tracking and reporting mechanisms. - Attend round table discussions, seminars, and workshops on subjects pertaining to the work of UNMIK. - Provide technical and substantive backup in the implementation of mandates of the Office of Political Affairs and Office of the Chief of Staff as required. - Maintain contacts with other components of the Mission and the UN Kosovo team, international partners, and government authorities on political, coordination, and policy matters; - Monitor actions taken by intergovernmental groups, United Nations (UN ) organizations, government, and non-governmental organizations within the assigned area of responsibility; - Define work plan for the area assigned in accordance with established terms of reference; - Attend events related to the mandate of the Mission as required. - Coordinate work with staff members in OPA and other substantive offices of the Mission as needed.

Competencies and values

Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility; Commitment to Continuous Learning; Communication; Integrity; Planning and Organizing; Professionalism; Respect for Diversity; Working in Teams.

Living conditions and remarks

Kosovo is located in the Western 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.