Political Coordinator

Political Coordinator

The UNCCD - United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification is seeking a Political Coordinator to establish a liaison facility in Geneva, enhancing engagement with international organizations and stakeholders. The role involves representing the UNCCD, developing partnerships, and supporting resource mobilization for sustainable land management. The coordinator will also promote UNCCD priorities in international forums and conduct strategic monitoring of relevant policies. This position is home-based and expected to last 80 days between November 2026 and February 2027.

Candidate Requirements:

• First-level university degree in political science or related field
• Minimum two years of experience in political science or international relations
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Knowledge of an additional official UN language is an advantage
• Ability to work independently as an economic operator

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under direct supervision of the Director of New York Office the C/IC will have the following tasks:

Representation and Institutional Liaison:

• Represent the UNCCD, before international organizations and multilateral processes based in Geneva.
• Maintain relations with Permanent Missions and the relevant Swiss Federal and Geneva authorities.
• Participate in inter-agency coordination mechanisms and relevant international meetings.
• Monitor international processes that may have an impact on the implementation of the Convention.

Development of Partnerships and Synergies:

• Identify and develop partnerships with United Nations agencies, international organizations, and other Geneva-based actors.
• Facilitate informal briefings, consultations, and bilateral exchanges with Geneva-based interlocutors, factoring in elements stemming from the UNCCCD process.

Support to Resource Mobilization and Development Cooperation:

• Contribute to the mobilization of financial and technical resources for the implementation of the Convention and the outcomes and recommendations of COPs.
• Develop relationships with donors, foundations, financial institutions, and development partners based in Geneva.
• Identify opportunities for joint financing and inter-institutional cooperation.

Advocacy, Communication, and Knowledge Sharing:

• Promote the UNCCD's priorities and key messages in Geneva-based international forums.
• Disseminate knowledge and best practices related to land restoration, sustainable land management, and drought resilience.

Foresight Analysis and Support to the Secretariat:

• Conduct strategic monitoring of relevant international policies and negotiations.
• Identify opportunities to integrate UNCCD objectives into the programmes and strategies of international partners.

Qualifications/special skills:

• A first-level university degree in political science, international relations, international economics or other related area is required.
• A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, law, development management, or related areas is required.
• Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of an additional official UN language is an advantage.