Description:         

Belize and Guatemala have a longstanding territorial dispute which dates back to the 19th Century. Guatemala recognized Belize’s independence from Great Britain in 1991 with the reservation of its territorial claim. The governments of Belize and Guatemala sought the good offices of the OAS to find a peaceful and permanent solution to the dispute. The efforts of the OAS consist of providing both political support to the process, as well as technical support in the field through its Office of the OAS in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone.

Duties and Responsibilities:

This is an  operative  position designed to carry out various aspects of a project and/or activities in the fulfillment of the mission of its designated Department/Secretariat, and is assigned all or part of the following responsibilities. (NOTE: these responsibilities and expected results are standardized, and are not necessarily performed by all staff members sharing this job title):

• Assist in every field verification requested by either Belize or Guatemala and carry out interviews as needed, as well as gather any other information related to the verification activities.
• Verify information and issue reports in the Mission Management System (SIGEMIZA) to facilitate of the creation of reports of the area of work in a timely manner.
• Within the delegated authority, maintain permanent contact and facilitate exchange of information on issues specific to the area of work with local or governmental authorities, communities and civil society institutions.
• Maintain permanent contact with local governmental entities, communities and civil society organizations.
• Monitor the state of Human Rights and vulnerable communities in the area.
• Produce activities reports in English and Spanish according with the Office Director instructions.
• Support and participate in local initiatives towards establishing a climate of trust, interaction and peace, with particular attention on fulfilling the objectives of the mission, and to the situation of the most vulnerable populations in the region.
• Support the operations of the Belize – Guatemala Mission in line with evolving situations as related to the area of work.
• As delegated, represent the Director Office at meetings on issues concerning the area of work.

• Perform other related duties as assigned, including replacing and backstopping for others.

   

  Work Environment: The incumbent is part of a team and works under the supervision of an Officer (grade P03 or higher). Work in progress is monitored on a regular basis with new and/or unusual assignments being discussed with the supervisor, generally at the incumbent’s request. Completed work and results are reviewed for soundness of conclusions and judgment.

  The position requires willingness to work under unusual work schedules and during the weekend, in dangerous and difficult conditions.

  Guidelines: OAS rules, regulations, procedures and practices While the incumbent is encouraged to propose innovative solutions, mechanisms and procedures, no deviation of the rules and regulations, or directives is permitted without consultation.

   

  Education and Experience:

  Essential: First University Degree (Bachelor’s) in political or social science or a related field and 1 year of relevant experience in similar positions at the national and/or international level, including internships.
  
  Desirable: Experience or knowledge of the OAS mandate and priorities as related to the area of work and/or the dynamics of the Inter-American agenda and system. Experience of automated financial management systems such as Oracle.  

Skills:

Languages:

Essential – Proficient in at least two of the following languages: English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish (read, write and communicate);

Desirable – Working knowledge of the other two languages.

Computer Skills: Essential: Ability to effectively work using Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other software needed for editing video and audio.

Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrated communication skills (verbal and written); tact, discretion and diplomacy; sound presentation skills; ability to develop concepts and present them in a clear and concise manner.


The GS/OAS embraces equality, diversity and inclusion. Thus, the GS/OAS, in accordance with its rules and regulations, is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, achieving a diverse staff, and will take into account a wide geographic representation, as well as gender equity and equality, in the selection of candidates.

Please note that the mandatory retirement age for staff members at the General Secretariat of the OAS is 65.

Due to the international nature of the type of contract that will be offered, citizens of Belize or Guatemala cannot be considered for this position.