La communauté des praticiens

Following the adoption of the African Union’s Security Sector Reform Policy Framework (AU-SSRPF) by the 20^th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union in January 2013, the ASSN has signed a Grant Support Agreement with the UN Office of Project Services (UNOPS) to develop a number of guidance tools and other instruments to support the implementation of the AU-SSRPF. A copy of the TOR can be viewed online at africansecuritynetwork.org. UNOPS support is within the framework of the project "Building AU Capacities in SSR - A Joint UN/EU Support Action", which seeks “to build African Union capacities in the key peacebuilding area of SSR through a partnership between the African Union, the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations and the European Union with the aim of better positioning the AU to support national authorities with effective SSR implementation to advance social justice and sustainable peace”. ASSN’s role is consistent with the tripartite agreement between the UN, AU, and ASSN, requiring ASSN to provide technical support to this project.

The ASSN seeks duly qualified individuals/consultants to lead respectively on the following:                             

• “AU Guidance Note on Developing National Codes of Conduct for African Security Institutions”
  • “Operational Guidance Note (OGN) on SSR Assessments”
  • “Operational Guidance Note (OGN) on Gender”

This assignment is expected to be process-driven, and both consultative and collaborative in approach. The lead consultant’s work will be supported by a small technical team and a larger reference group of key experts and representatives of stakeholder institutions. There will be at least one consultation workshop to review initial drafts and (where necessary) recommend revisions.

The consultant will be responsible for:

• taking the lead in drafting the document in question;
• ensuring quality and timely delivery of  interim and final draft; and
• presenting the draft document during the consultation workshop(s), noting inputs and feedback, and modifying the draft to reflect such input and feedback as may emanate from the workshop(s).

The successful candidate will work with the technical team to develop a detailed implementation plan for approval by ASSN management.

It is expected that the successful candidate will have

• substantial policy and practical  experience at a senior level in the specific thematic area (including—in the case of the OGN on SSR Assessments—participation in previous SSR missions);
• be familiar with SSR concepts, policies, and implementation; and
• excellent writing skills

Competency in one or more AU languages in addition to English  would be an advantage but is not a requirement.

The work assignment will commence immediately an appropriate candidate is identified, or as soon thereafter as feasible.

Please submit a current CV and an expression of interest detailing qualifications and experience by email to info@africansecuritynetwork.org or by regular mail to

Elom Khaunbiow,

African Security Sector Network (ASSN),

27 Kofi Annan Avenue,

North Legon, Accra, Ghana,

P.O. Box AF2457, Adenta, Accra, Ghana

CLOSING DATE: 20 May 2013

Dans le cadre du Mémorandum d’Entente entre le Burundi et le Royaume des Pays Bas signé en Avril 2009 dans l’objectif du  Développement du Secteur de la Sécurité (DSS), il a été mise en place un programme de Gouvernance du Secteur de la Sécurité au Burundi, qui est un volet transversal, en plus de deux autres Unités d’appui à la Police et à l’Armée des mêmes programmes DSS.

Le mémorandum d’entente burundo-néerlandais de 2009 prévoit it un suivi du secteur de sécurité par des organisations de la société civile (production des rapports périodiques sur le SS). Il est prévu un atelier de trois jours sur le«  Renforcement des capacités des Organisations de la Société Civile et des autres acteurs non étatiques en synergie engagés dans la gouvernance du secteur de sécurité,du 29 au 31 Mai 2013. A cet effet, le programme DSS souhaite recruter un Consultant International pour mener ledit atelier selon les termes de refeerence annexé à cet appel à candidature.

Background

The Government of Liberia with the support of the international community, has made considerable progress towards the implementation of its reform agenda, through the following documents: the Results Focused Transitional Framework (RFTF), the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS 2008-2011), Government of Liberia and UNMIL Transition Plan and   the Agenda for Transformation (AfT 2013- ). This process is enhancing internal and external security, revitalizing the economy, restoring the rule of law, and improving basic social service delivery.  The authority of the State   is increasing with the deployment of the Police, justice and prosecution services, customs and immigration services and offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs through its Decentralization Plan.  However, Liberia still faces several crucial institutional challenges, in particular justice and security sectors. Within the framework of Security Sector Reform (SSR) and peace building in Liberia, UNDP established a Justice and Security Trust Fund for the Liberia National Police (LNP), Bureau for Immigration and Naturalization (BIN) and the Bureau for Corrections and Rehabilitation (BCR). The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) excluded from the Fund, as the CPA of 2003 mandated the US and ECOWAS to rebuild the AFL. To consolidate the SSR process the UN is assisting the Government to recruit a senior SSR Advisor to assist the Office of the National Security Advisor to coordinate all SSR processes in and out of Government.  Being channelled through the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator to support SSR initiatives, the SSR Advisor in the Office of the RC has been established to provide high quality advice for specific activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Effective coordination of the SSR process with all critical Government Ministries including the Ministry of National Defense, and the Ministry of Justice and the Office of the National Security Advisor and the Legislature.
• Exchange information, coordinate Government and UN system SSR process  with the UNMIL SSR Advisor, the Office of Gender Advisor  and the Gender Coordinating Group and the UNDP SSR Advisor
• Provision of quality programmatic and technical assistance to the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of National Defense as well as the leadership of the Committees of the Legislature on the implementation of the Intelligence Act.
• Prepares briefs on progress and challenges on the SSR process.
• Capacity development for the Office of the National Security Advisor   in Fund Management, Resource allocation, Resource mobilization and monitoring and evaluation
• Negotiates contribution agreements with donors and ensures compliance of all reporting requirements.
• Ensures timely preparation and submission of all reports.

IMPACT OF RESULTS:

• Strategic business plan for the SSR in line with the UNMIL Transition Plan and beyond
• Various reports and analyses prepared by ‘SSR’   Ministers in accordance with requirements and on schedule.
• Leadership of MOJ, MND, Legislature   competently performing their duties in accordance with the UNMIL Transition Plan
• Linkage with ECOWAS, Mano River Union, UNMIL and the Country Team  
• Monitoring and evaluation review performed and reports distributed
• Required performance appraisals prepared as scheduled.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
• Treats all people fairly without favoritism

Functional Competencies:

• Knowledge Management and Learning
• Promotes knowledge management in UNDP and a learning environment in the office through leadership and personal example
• In-depth practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development issues
• Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in one or more Practice Areas, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills
• Seeks and applies knowledge, information, and best practices from within and outside of UNDP

Development and Operational Effectiveness

• Ability to lead strategic planning, change processes, results-based management and reporting
• Ability to lead formulation, oversight of implementation, monitoring and evaluation of development projects
• Ability to apply development theory to the specific country context to identify creative, practical approaches to overcome challenging situations

Management and Leadership

• Builds strong relationships with clients, focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to feedback
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
• Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities
• Ability to lead effectively,  mentoring as well as conflict resolution skills
• Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills
• Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure
• Proven networking, team-building, organizational and communication skills

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Masters degree or equivalent in International Relations or Law, Political Science, Public Administration or relevant Governance discipline.

Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of relevant work experience in dealing with SSR, post conflict recovery, peace building and working in    a multi-cultural setting.
• 5 years of working in a regional organization, the UN or at senior governmental  level
• The incumbent must have 10 or more years of progressive responsibilities in defence restructuring/SSR management in Government, and knowledge of Atlas. 

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English.

FC: 11888 and 04000To view this application, please follow this link.

Duties and Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, and under the supervision of the Director, Political Affairs, the Associate Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for performing the following duties: 

Monitoring and Reporting - Identify and monitor political developments and emerging issues with respect to the implementation of UNSMIL's mandate, focussing on government formation, decentralization and local government in particular; Collect and interpret information contained in communications and publications received from various sources, including the Arabic-language press and social media; Prepare summary and analytical reports, including situation reports, briefing notes and notes to file; Assist with the preparation of code cables and other written materials destined for UN Headquarters.

Outreach and Coordination - Provide support to the Mission's efforts to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with the
authorities, political leaders, civil society actors, the broader UN family and other national and international partners on coordination and policy matters; Support preparations for meetings, events and visits, prepare written summaries and assist with follow-up activities, as appropriate; Assist with preparation of input for mission planning processes.

Information Management - Prepare and update contextual information materials, such as background notes and political profiles; Develop and/or maintain databases and other tools designed to ensure accessibility and utility of information; Manage correspondence; Translate documents from Arabic to English and vice versa, as needed. Perform other related duties as required.

Competencies

Professionalism - Ability to identify and analyze political, ethnic, racial, social and economic problems that cause unrest in a
country or geographic area; Capacity to conduct research, formulate options, and present conclusions and recommendations; Shows pride in work and in achievements; Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; Remains calm in stressful situations; Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Communication - Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and
responds appropriately; Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Planning and Organizing - Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; Identifies priority activities and
assignments; adjusts priorities as required; Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; Uses time efficiently.

Teamwork – Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; Places team agenda before personal agenda; Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Qualifications

Experience: A minimum of two years of professional experience in political affairs, diplomacy, conflict resolution, development,
or related field is required, at least one year of which at the international level is preferable. Experience preparing summary and
analytical reports in a professional capacity is required. Previous experience working in a UN Special Political Mission,
Peacekeeping Operation, or other UN field operation in a conflict or post-conflict setting is desirable. Experience working in the
Libya and/or the Arab region would be an asset.

Education: Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in political science, international relations, social
sciences, law, public administration, or a related field. A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic
qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Languages: Fluency in spoken and written Arabic and English is required.

View the file enclosed for full details on this vacancy and application procedure.

Duties and Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, and under the supervision of the Head of the Political Affairs Division (PAD), the Principal Political
Affairs Officer will focus on constitutional affairs and will be responsible for performing the following duties: Political Analysis and Advice - Identify, analyze and monitor political developments and emerging issues with respect to UNSMIL’s mandate to support to the constitution-making process; Assess implications and make recommendations to the Mission leadership on possible strategies, policies and other measures to address issues of concern and to advance mandated objectives.

Reporting and Information Management - Prepare and review analytical assessments on the constitution-making process including, but not limited to, situation reports, best practices documents, options papers, code cables and input for the reports of the Secretary-General to the Security Council; Ensure an effective system of information management designed to guarantee
accessibility and utility of information.

Planning, Coordination and Facilitation – Develop and maintain collaborative relationships at the national and local levels with
members of the Constitutional Drafting body, the General National Congress, government officials, political actors, civil society
leaders, academics, and regional actors and organizations on matters related to constitutional processes; Consult, advise and
cooperate with partners to develop strategies and plans of action to address political and technical challenges; Facilitate the
contribution of mission components, UNDP and other members of the UN Country Team to ensure an integrated and holistic
approach to the process; Provide good offices on behalf of the SRSG, as appropriate.

Management - Formulate and manage the implementation of PAD’s programme of work pertaining to constitutional affairs;
Provide strategic and practical guidance to PAD staff and field offices on how best they can contribute; Supervise, mentor, and
evaluate staff; Participate in the selection of new staff.

Competencies

Professionalism – Analytical skills and ability to comprehend the complex inter-relations between Libyan stakeholders; Substantial
and diverse experience in all facets of the job; Strong analytical and evaluative skills combined with good judgement; Ability to
identify problems (e.g. political, ethnic, racial, social, economic) impacting the constitutional process and provide strategic advice and recommendations to senior officials; Effective negotiating skills and ability to work with others to find solutions; Shows pride in work and in achievements; Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; Remains calm in stressful situations; Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Communication - Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and
responds appropriately; Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

For Managerial Positions

Managing Performance - Delegates the appropriate responsibility, accountability, and decision-making authority; Makes sure that
roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines are clear to each staff member; Accurately judges the amount of time and resources
needed to accomplish a task and matches task to skills; Monitors progress against milestones and deadlines; Regularly discusses
performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff; Encourages risk-taking and supports staff when they make mistakes;
Actively supports the development and career aspirations of staff; Appraises performance fairly.

Leadership - Serves as a role model that other people want to follow; Empowers others to translate vision into results; Is pro active in developing strategies to accomplish objectives; Establishes and maintains relationships with a broad range of people to
understand needs and gain support; Anticipates and resolves conflicts by pursuing mutually agreeable solutions; Drives for change and improvement; does not accept the status quo; Shows the courage to take unpopular stands. 

Judgement/Decision-making - Identifies the key issues in a complex situation, and comes to the heart of the problem quickly; Gathers relevant information before making a decision; Considers positive and negative impact on others and on the Organization; Proposes a course of action or makes a recommendation based on all available information; Checks assumptions against facts; Determines that the actions proposed will satisfy the expressed and underlying needs for the decision; Makes tough decisions when necessary.

Qualifications

Experience: At least fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in political affairs, diplomacy, rule of law, governance,
conflict resolution, or related area is required. Experience in an advisory role to a senior public official is required. Experience
managing or facilitating multi-stakeholder processes at the national level in a peace consolidation setting is required. Previous
experience working in a UN Special Political Mission, Peacekeeping Operation, or other UN field operation in a conflict or postconflict setting is desirable. Experience working in the Libya and/or the Arab region would be an asset.

View the file enclosed for full details on this vacancy and application procedure.

Background

The post holder will form part of the core International Security Sector Advisory Team (ISSAT) at the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF). ISSAT provides a deployable capacity to support its 18 members (which include 14 bilateral donors, the EU, UN, OECD Secretariat and OIF) in creating strategic, successful and sustainable Security and Justice Sector Reform interventions in conflict-affected, fragile and development environments.

This is a demanding and high profile implementation and representational role requiring overseas travel and with wide-ranging high-level departmental contacts within international organisations, governments, development agencies and their staff overseas. ISSAT may operate in post-conflict contexts, so the post-holder will have to demonstrate an ability to work in challenging conditions.

Tasks & Responsibilities

The post holder will:

• advise programme planning and management;
• lead or support overseas Security and Justice missions as directed by the Head of ISSAT team, resulting in:
  • reports and practical recommendations for change and improvements to address identified issues;
  • evaluating, reporting and recommending action in respect of SSR projects and programmes delivered by others, delivered to time and cost;
• maintain effective liaison with partner and ISSAT Governing Board members before, during and after specific missions as directed by the Head of ISSAT;
• present findings from missions to donors and partner states or at conferences/seminars/training courses as required;
• extract lessons learned from engagements to feed into ISSAT and wider multilateral SSR policy development and implementation processes;
• adapt and if necessary develop methodologies and approaches to support SSR;
• create practical operational guidance tools for use by ISSAT and ISSAT Governing Board members;
• contribute to ISSAT’s annual activity reports and other such periodic reports that may be required by the Head of ISSAT;
• maintain effective and productive relationships with other DCAF divisions and other international SSR actors;
• assist in the design and delivery of standardised or tailored training programmes, courses and conferences to meet donor, partner and ISSAT needs;
• maintain the innovation of ISSAT activities through a substantive commitment to ongoing personal and professional training and development;
• provide on-going inputs into ISSAT knowledge services, community of practice and lessons learned platform;
• provide ‘out of hours’ roster coverage as required when other team members are deployed overseas to provide a first point of contact for dealing with unforeseen eventualities and emergencies;
• undertake such other tasks as may, from time to time, be required by the Head of ISSAT or his/her designate.

Competencies

The post holder must be proactive and have demonstrated an ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team. For specified tasking, they must be prepared to act as the lead for particular programme activities and demonstrate excellent project management skills. S/he must have good communication (verbal and written), influencing and presentational skills and the ability to network and liaise effectively with a wide range of potential stakeholders at all levels both within governments and non-governmental and multinational organisations. S/he must be able to analyse situations quickly and effectively, adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and produce workable solutions to meet customer requirements. SSR is a fast developing field and it will be necessary to retain currency in the latest thinking and developments. An interest in international relations and development issues, fundamental to the SSR concept, is highly desirable. This post will involve considerable international travel, and as the ISSAT may operate in fragile/post-conflict contexts, the post-holder will have to demonstrate an ability to work in challenging conditions. It is important that the post holder has a strong knowledge of /experience in SSR processes in sub-Saharan Africa or post-conflict contexts from other regions.

Qualifications

For this post, a Masters degree in law, international relations, development, political science, or a related field is required. The post holder must have a minimum of 7 to 10 years of work experience in justice and security sector reform, including extensive field experience. Relevant experience includes designing and implementing security, justice or governance reform processes or programmes, and structuring and delivering trainings. Knowledge of the UN approach to SSR and of latest developments in the fields of rule of law and justice reform, including gender, as well as familiarity with other institutional approaches (e.g. AU, EU, AfDB, OECD etc.) is highly expected.

Languages

The team’s operating language is English; however fluent French would be a definite advantage, as would other languages, such as Arabic.

Application Details

Candidates meeting the requirements are invited to email their CV with a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria to: Ms Aji Buchanan at a.buchanan@dcaf.ch.

The deadline for applications is 13 May 2013.

Selection will be carried out based on CV/Cover Letter analysis, followed by a competency based written evaluation and interviews. Due to the volume of applications, only those selected to undertake the written evaluation/interviews will be contacted.

ISSAT is strongly committed to geographical and gender diversity. Individuals from countries who have undergone/are undergoing an SSR process are strongly encouraged to apply.