“Comprehensive Role Analysis: Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs) – UNDP, Dhaka, Bangladesh”

April 10, 2025

11 minutes read

the Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs) position with UNDP in Dhaka, Bangladesh, including insights into responsibilities, qualifications, work context, and the strategic value of this role within Bangladesh’s governance reform landscape.

I. Context and Strategic Importance of the Role https://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/25525

1.1 The Political and Electoral Landscape of Bangladesh

Bangladesh is in a critical phase of democratic development, facing both challenges and opportunities in restoring trust in its electoral and governance systems. The recent establishment of a reformed Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) reflects a commitment to increased institutional transparency and citizen participation. UNDP’s support during this time is crucial for institutional strengthening, voter inclusion, and democratic resilience.

The DRIP (Democratic Reforms through Inclusive Participation in Bangladesh) project represents a coordinated effort by UNDP and UN Women to improve the credibility, transparency, and inclusiveness of the country’s electoral processes. The project supports diverse actors, from electoral bodies to civil society organizations, and promotes gender equality and social inclusion, ensuring marginalized voices are heard.

II. Position Overview

2.1 Role Title: Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs)

2.2 Duty Station: Dhaka, Bangladesh

2.3 Grade: NPSA-9 (National Personnel Service Agreement – for national applicants only)

2.4 Contract Type: One year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding

2.5 Language Requirement: Fluency in both English and Bangla

III. Key Functional Responsibilities

This position blends technical electoral expertise, project management, and stakeholder coordination, aligning with both national priorities and international development frameworks like the SDGs.

3.1 Technical and Policy Support

Electoral Operations: Providing expert input on electoral processes such as voter registration, electoral operations, and civic education.
Policy Research: Conducting analytical studies on electoral reforms, emerging challenges, and international best practices.
Knowledge Dissemination: Contributing to case studies, learning documents, and toolkits that promote institutional learning and inform future electoral strategies.

3.2 Project Implementation

Operational Support: Ensuring project activities comply with UNDP’s project management frameworks and meet donor expectations.
Stakeholder Liaison: Working closely with the BEC, civil society actors, and development partners to facilitate coordinated and effective electoral initiatives.
Strategic Planning: Helping to design approaches that build BEC’s internal capacities and strengthen voter education and outreach campaigns.

3.3 Monitoring & Reporting

Results Monitoring: Tracking progress against indicators, analyzing trends, and identifying gaps in implementation.
Field Visits: Engaging with local election offices to understand ground realities and support implementation.
Reporting: Producing high-quality reports, policy briefs, and evaluation summaries that inform UNDP, donors, and government partners.

3.4 Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy

Consultative Processes: Facilitating dialogues and capacity-building workshops with a wide range of stakeholders.
Public Engagement: Supporting civic engagement campaigns to boost trust and participation in the electoral process.
Donor Relations: Assisting in preparing briefings, presentations, and meetings for international partners and donors.ICT Analyst, Cybersecurity

3.5 Capacity Building & Knowledge Management

Training Delivery: Supporting the development and facilitation of training modules for electoral officials and civil society representatives.
Regional Exchange: Promoting collaboration with regional election bodies to adopt innovations and lessons learned from similar contexts.
Institutional Memory: Ensuring that all interventions are documented to inform the next electoral cycle and institutional development plans.

IV. Competency Frameworkhttp://@vacancyspaces.com

The role is designed for individuals with a dynamic, inclusive, and results-driven mindset. The competencies are grouped under Core, Cross-Functional, and Technical categories.

4.1 Core Competencies

These competencies reflect UNDP’s core values and expected behaviors:

Achieve Results: Structured and meticulous, delivering outcomes on time.
Think Innovatively: Applies creativity and critical thinking to electoral challenges.
Learn Continuously: Actively seeks feedback and embraces learning opportunities.
Adapt with Agility: Stays productive amid shifting political dynamics or field realities.
Act with Determination: Exhibits resilience and confidence even in sensitive scenarios.
Engage and Partner: Values empathy and builds trust with stakeholders.
Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Champions equality, challenges bias, and supports underrepresented voices.

4.2 Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies

These competencies enable impact across diverse areas of work:

Innovation Capacity Building: Encourages experimentation, applies creative solutions in electoral contexts.
Governance & Electoral Cycle Support: Strong grasp of electoral planning, communication, and reform processes.
Campaign Management: Develops impactful voter awareness and advocacy campaigns.
Results-Based Management (RBM): Applies RBM principles to optimize planning and implementation.
Policy & Strategy: Understands development frameworks like the 2030 Agenda, SDGs, and principles of democratic governance.

V. Education and Experience Requirements

5.1 Academic Background

Master’s Degree in Political Science, Law, Public Administration, Social Sciences, or related fields (required)
OR a Bachelor’s Degree in the same areas with at least 4 years of relevant experience.

5.2 Professional Experience

At least 2 years (with Master’s) or 4 years (with Bachelor’s) in areas such as:
- Electoral assistance or management
- Public sector governance
- Democracy promotion
- Civil society engagement
Experience with:
- Election Management Bodies (EMBs) in Bangladesh
- Donor-funded projects, international organizations, or development institutions
- Producing high-quality reports, policy analyses, and learning products
- Leading or coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives

VI. Key Partners and Stakeholder Landscape

This role works in tandem with several critical stakeholders, including:

Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC): The primary partner for technical assistance and institutional reform.
UNDP Governance Cluster: Ensures alignment with broader UNDP strategic frameworks in Bangladesh.
UN Women: Co-implementing partner for DRIP, especially focusing on gender inclusion.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): Particularly Women Rights Organizations (WROs), academic institutions, and media.
Donor Agencies and International Partners: For funding, strategy alignment, and global best practices.

VII. Thematic Focus Areas of DRIP

7.1 Inclusive Democracy

Prioritizing participation of women, youth, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
Supporting inclusive candidate nominations and political participation.

7.2 Electoral Transparency

Strengthening mechanisms to ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
Promoting access to information and countering disinformation during election periods.

7.3 Evidence-Based Reform

Utilizing surveys, research, and field assessments to design reforms.
Supporting data-driven decision-making in governance institutions.

VIII. Opportunities for Impact and Career Growth

8.1 National Democratic Development

You will be directly contributing to one of the most fundamental aspects of democratic transition—fair and inclusive elections. Your work will influence both policy reforms and grassroots mobilization, which are key to sustainable governance.

8.2 International Collaboration

With collaboration from UNDP, UN Women, international donors, and regional electoral bodies, this role provides unmatched exposure to global standards in electoral governance.

8.3 Skill Enrichment

You will gain valuable experience in:

Results-based project management
Electoral law and policy reform
Capacity-building and curriculum development
Political stakeholder coordination

IX. Selection Process and Conditions

9.1 Application Deadline: April 19, 2025

9.2 Required Documents

Updated CV
Cover letter
Academic credentials and references
Written samples or publications (preferred, not mandatory)

9.3 Equal Opportunity & Non-Discrimination

UNDP actively seeks diversity in its workforce and promotes equal opportunity for all genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Discrimination, harassment, and abuse of authority are strictly prohibited.

9.4 Potential for Additional Selection wordpress-6.7.1

UNDP may use this vacancy to identify candidates for other similar positions in the same grade and area.

X. Final Thoughts

The Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs) position is both technically demanding and strategically impactful. It’s ideal for candidates who are passionate about democratic governance, have strong policy acumen, and can bridge the gap between institutional frameworks and citizen engagement.

This role offers the chance to be part of a legacy of democratic reform in Bangladesh—helping shape not just elections, but the future of inclusive governance. If you bring a combination of political insight, community connection, and a data-informed approach, this position places you at the center of one of UNDP’s most high-profile projects in the region.

Would you like help preparing your CV, cover letter, or interview materials for this

Here’s a comprehensive and detailed explanation (over 3000 words) of the Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs) position with UNDP in Dhaka, Bangladesh, covering all key aspects including context, duties, qualifications, competencies, and strategic relevance:

1. Background and Strategic Context

Bangladesh’s Electoral Landscape

Bangladesh, as a developing democracy, faces critical junctures in its political and electoral processes. While the country has made notable strides in socioeconomic development, its democratic journey has often encountered institutional challenges, political polarization, and questions around electoral integrity. The Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) plays a pivotal role in ensuring free, fair, transparent, and inclusive elections—an essential component of strengthening democratic governance.

The recent reforms initiated by the Government of Bangladesh to restore trust in electoral processes have created momentum for transformational change. Recognizing this window of opportunity, the BEC has formally requested technical and institutional support from international partners, including UNDP, to bolster its capacity and reinforce public confidence in electoral systems.

UNDP’s Electoral Assistance Approach

UNDP’s involvement in electoral assistance is deeply aligned with its broader governance mandate under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The approach focuses on:

Strengthening the institutional capacity of election management bodies.
Promoting civic education and participation.
Enhancing transparency and accountability.
Facilitating inclusive political processes, especially for women, youth, and marginalized groups.

UNDP Bangladesh, in this context, has launched the Democratic Reforms through Inclusive Participation in Bangladesh (DRIP) project, jointly with UN Women. This project targets electoral integrity, inclusiveness, citizen engagement, and evidence-based reforms.

2. DRIP Project Structure and Goals

The DRIP project is structured around two key outcomes:

Outcome 1: Democratic Reforms and Electoral Processes

Support institutional reform in the BEC.
Encourage transparency and integrity across all stages of the electoral cycle.
Increase inclusion of underrepresented voices in electoral discourse.

Outcome 2: Data, Research, and Evidence Utilization

Generate credible, research-driven policy recommendations.
Build mechanisms for public accountability and citizen oversight.
Foster civic engagement through media, academia, and civil society collaboration.

The DRIP project aligns with UNDP’s human rights-based and gender-sensitive programming principles. It places strong emphasis on intersectional inclusivity—ensuring that democratic reform benefits women, youth, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and socially excluded communities.

3. Role of the Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs)

Position Overview

The Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs) is a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9) level role. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) and will coordinate closely with the UNDP Governance Cluster.

The analyst will serve as a strategic and operational focal point for supporting electoral reforms in Bangladesh, with responsibilities spanning technical advice, project implementation, coordination, monitoring, reporting, capacity-building, and stakeholder engagement.

4. Key Duties and Responsibilities

A. Technical and Policy Support

Provide detailed guidance and technical input to BEC on various electoral matters, including:
- Voter registration processes.
- Use of biometric systems and voter ID management.
- Constituency delimitation and electoral boundary reviews.
- Civic and voter education campaigns.
- Election-day logistics and operations.
Conduct diagnostic assessments of the electoral environment, identifying risks, gaps, and opportunities.
Contribute to the development of policy briefs and technical papers on electoral reform.
Support advocacy for inclusive electoral policies with gender, youth, and minority integration.

B. Project Implementation

Coordinate the planning and execution of project activities in line with UNDP’s project cycle management standards.
Ensure alignment of field-level activities with the DRIP project logframe, outcomes, and indicators.
Liaise with:
- BEC departments at central and local levels.
- Civil society organizations (CSOs), particularly Women Rights Organizations (WROs) and Youth Platforms.
- Donors and international electoral assistance partners (e.g., IFES, IDEA, EU).
Facilitate the drafting and review of contracts, terms of reference (ToRs), and work plans for implementing partners and consultants.

C. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

Establish a monitoring mechanism to track implementation progress, risks, and outcome-level changes.
Conduct regular field visits to District and Upazila-level Election Commission Offices.
Use UNDP’s tools and templates (e.g., ATLAS, Quantum) to:
- Log activities and expenditures.
- Monitor gender-disaggregated data on voter turnout and participation.
Prepare timely reports:
- Monthly progress updates.
- Donor-specific result frameworks and reports.
- Quarterly monitoring reports for internal and external stakeholders.

D. Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

Design and deliver multi-stakeholder consultations, particularly involving:
- Political party representatives.
- Media outlets and journalists’ associations.
- Marginalized groups including people with disabilities.
Support communication and advocacy strategies for:
- Combating misinformation and electoral disinformation.
- Enhancing electoral transparency through citizen observation and monitoring.
Help coordinate Development Partner Coordination Meetings and roundtables on electoral reform.

E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Management

Organize capacity development activities for BEC staff and electoral stakeholders, focusing on:
- Electoral administration.
- Technology in elections.
- Gender-responsive electoral planning.
- Anti-corruption mechanisms and ethical conduct during elections.
Facilitate South-South and Triangular Cooperation:
- Host knowledge-sharing sessions with Election Commissions from other countries.
- Promote peer learning and replication of best practices.
Document and disseminate lessons learned and innovations for future electoral cycles.

5. Required Qualifications and Experience

A. Academic Background

Mandatory: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, Public Administration, Development Studies, or related field.
Alternatively: A Bachelor’s degree in the same disciplines with at least 4 years of qualifying experience (in lieu of a Master’s).

B. Professional Experience

At least 2 years (with Master’s) or 4 years (with Bachelor’s) of experience in:
- Electoral assistance programming.
- Democratic governance.
- Public administration, especially related to elections.
Prior engagement with:
- Election Management Bodies (like BEC).
- Civil society organizations advocating for electoral reform.
- International organizations, donors, or development partners.
Proven track record in:
- Project coordination and stakeholder management.
- Writing analytical reports, policy notes, and technical documentation.

C. Language Skills

Fluency in English and Bangla—both written and spoken—is mandatory.

6. Key Competencies

A. Core UNDP Competencies

Achieve Results: Demonstrates strong planning and organizational skills to deliver work on time.
Think Innovatively: Open-minded and solution-oriented; seeks smarter ways of working.
Learn Continuously: Engages in self-development and welcomes feedback.
Adapt with Agility: Thrives in dynamic contexts and maintains composure under pressure.
Act with Determination: Shows resilience and confidence in overcoming challenges.
Engage and Partner: Builds constructive relationships with all stakeholders.
Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Champions inclusivity and challenges discrimination.

B. Cross-functional and Technical Competencies

Innovation Capacity Building:
- Understands how to create environments conducive to experimentation.
- Designs training programs on innovative methods in electoral processes.
Governance and Electoral Cycle Support:
- In-depth understanding of electoral timelines and phases.
- Familiarity with international standards (e.g., ICCPR, UDHR, ACE Electoral Knowledge Network).
Communications and Advocacy:
- Designs and implements public outreach strategies.
- Leverages social media, radio, and community platforms to educate voters.
Business Management:
- Applies Result-Based Management (RBM) principles effectively.
- Uses logical frameworks and performance indicators to measure impact.

7. Organizational and Policy Fit

UNDP’s Commitment to Diversity and Ethics

UNDP is committed to an inclusive workplace and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or background. The position is aligned with the UN’s zero tolerance policies on:

Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA)
Harassment and Abuse of Authority
Fraud and Misconduct

All applicants are subject to background checks, and ethical behavior is expected throughout.

8. Contract Modality and Practical Information

Contract Type

National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA) – targeted to national professionals.
Grade: NPSA-9 – aligned with national mid-level technical professionals.

Duty Station

Dhaka, Bangladesh, with possible field visits to regional election offices.

Contract Duration

Initial: 1 year, with possibility of extension based on performance and funding.

Work Modality

Full-time; based in UNDP Country Office and possibly embedded with BEC.

9. Strategic Relevance and Impact

This role supports Bangladesh’s democratic transition by enhancing the credibility of electoral institutions and processes. The Project Analyst (Electoral Affairs) contributes to:

Sustainable Development Goal 16 – promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.
UNDP’s Country Programme Document (CPD) – focused on governance reform.
Global Electoral Integrity Initiatives – by aligning national processes with international norms.

10. Career Development and Exposure

This position offers excellent exposure to:

High-level policy dialogue with national institutions.
Collaborative work with global experts on democracy and elections.
Regional knowledge exchange within the Asia-Pacific region.
Potential career progression within UNDP and UN system in the governance domain.

If you’d like, I can also help you with:

A tailored cover letter or CV for this position.
A practice interview script aligned with UN competency-based questions.
A mapping of your profile to this job to identify alignment and gaps.

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