Political Affairs Consultant - Division of Member Parliaments and External Relations

Background

The IPU is the global organization of parliaments. It was founded in 1889 as the first multilateral political organization in the world, encouraging cooperation and dialogue between all nations. Today, the IPU comprises 179 national Member Parliaments and 13 regional parliamentary bodies. It promotes democracy and helps parliaments become stronger, younger, gender-balanced and more diverse. It also defends the human rights of parliamentarians through a dedicated committee made up of MPs from around the world. Twice a year, the IPU convenes over 1,500 parliamentary delegates and partners in a world assembly, bringing a parliamentary dimension to global governance, including the work of the United Nations and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
 

Tasks

Working under the supervision of the Director for Member Parliaments and External Relations, the Consultant will support the work of the IPU statutory bodies and provide political and legal advice, the strict observance of the IPU Statutes and Rules, as well as good relations with IPU Member Parliaments and partner organizations.

Accountabilities

Within delegated authority, the Consultant will be responsible for the following:

• Provide support on statutory matters relating to the smooth functioning of IPU Assemblies and other main bodies, including the IPU Geopolitical Groups;
• Support the preparation and work of the IPU Assembly and other high-level meetings, ensuring the timely drafting of agendas and relevant documentation, the smooth running of its sessions and follow-up, and other related tasks as appropriate.
• Prepare reports, position papers, information notes, etc. for presentation to the governing bodies and/or senior management;
• Organize meetings and develop initiatives aimed at enhancing dialogue and cooperation between the IPU and regional and other parliamentary organizations, with a view to achieving greater coherence in the parliamentary response to global issues;
• Identify opportunities and implement initiatives for engagement and cooperation between the IPU and non-Member Parliaments, with a view to advancing towards universal membership;
• Carry out such other duties as may be assigned by the Director of the Division and the Secretary General and which are consistent with the overall responsibilities of this consultancy.

The Consultant will have frequent interactions with the following

• Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff;
• Officials from the United Nations and other partner organizations;
• Senior managers and staff of the IPU Secretariat.

Competencies

• Professionalism: knowledge of parliamentary systems; proven ability to produce high-quality reports and papers; ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines;
• Planning and organizing: proven ability to plan and organize meetings and work, ensuring that these are consistent with the overall Strategy of the IPU;
• Communication: Excellent drafting ability and communication skills, both oral and written; ability to prepare written reports that are clear, concise and meaningful;
• Technological awareness: Advanced knowledge of word processing software, database applications and information management systems. Advanced use of the Internet, including the use of social media tools;
• Teamwork: Good interpersonal skills; demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural, multi ethnic environment. Team spirit. Adaptability to varying working environments and conditions;
• Judgment/Decision-making - good political judgment and initiative, imagination and resourcefulness, energy and tact.

Requirements

• Advanced university degree political science, law, international relations, or related fields. A combination of academic qualifications and extensive relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree;
• Excellent knowledge of the functioning of national parliaments. Experience in a parliamentary setting is a distinct advantage;
• At least 3 years of progressively responsible international experience;
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills;
• Excellent oral and written command of English and French, including the ability to draft in at least one of these languages. Knowledge of a third official UN language is an advantage.

Time frame and conditions

This consultancy is for a period of 12 months, starting as soon as possible. He/She shall be expected to work a maximum of 220 days over a one year period.

The IPU shall cover the expenses related to the missions that the Consultant may need to carry out for purposes of the above assignments.                     

Employment conditions

The Consultant is an independent contractor, is not considered to be an official or employee of the IPU and is not subject to the IPU Staff Regulations and Staff Rules. The Consultant is not entitled to recover from the IPU any income tax payable in respect of the fee provided under this contract and shall be solely liable for the payment of any national income tax due in respect of the emoluments payable under this contract.