The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist role at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) in Freetown, Sierra Leone is focused on promoting political dialogue, peacebuilding, and conflict prevention in the country and the broader Mano River Union (MRU) region.
Key Aspects of the Job:
1. Background & Purpose
- The UNDP works to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on poverty reduction, democratic governance, peacebuilding, and social inclusion.
- Sierra Leone has faced political tensions following its 2023 general elections, with disputes between the ruling party and the opposition. A peace agreement, the Agreement for National Unity, was signed in October 2023 to promote political stability.
- The role supports electoral reforms, peacebuilding efforts, and conflict prevention in Sierra Leone and border communities in the Mano River Union (MRU).
2. Responsibilities
The specialist will provide technical advisory services and programmatic support in four key areas:
A. Analysis, Policy Advice & Developmenthttp://Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist – UNDP Sierra Leone
- Conduct research and provide situational analysis on political and socio-economic developments in Sierra Leone and the MRU region.
- Offer policy advice on peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
- Strengthen the capacities of national and regional institutions in managing conflicts.
- Support dialogues and mediation efforts between political parties and civil society.
B. Programme Development & Implementation
- Support post-election peacebuilding initiatives and electoral reforms.
- Work with government agencies, civil society, and donors to integrate conflict sensitivity into development projects.
- Collaborate with MRU countries to develop projects that address cross-border peace and security.
C. Partnerships, Resource Mobilization & Representation
- Build partnerships with government agencies, donors, NGOs, and regional bodies.
- Identify funding opportunities for peacebuilding programs.
- Represent UNDP in regional and international peacebuilding meetings.
D. Knowledge Management & Reporting
- Prepare reports, policy documents, and briefing papers for UNDP leadership.
- Share best practices and lessons learned from peacebuilding initiatives.
- Ensure the implementation of UNDP’s conflict prevention strategies.
3. Impact of the Role
- Strengthens Sierra Leone’s ability to prevent conflicts and manage political disputes.
- Enhances regional collaboration for stability in the MRU (Guinea, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone).
- Positions UNDP as a key partner in peace and democratic consolidation in West Africa.
Qualifications & Skills Needed@vacancyspaces.com
Education:
- Master’s degree in Development Studies, Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with 7 years of experience may also be considered.
Experience:
- 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, good governance, and mediation.
- Experience in developing countries is preferred.
- Experience with UNDP or similar international organizations is an advantage.
- Knowledge of security sector institutions, crisis prevention, and early recovery programs is desirable.
Skills:
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, etc.) and web-based management systems.
- Strong analytical, communication, and policy development skills.
- Ability to engage with government officials, civil society, and donors.
Language Requirement:
- Fluency in English (spoken and written) is required.
Table of Contents
Why This Job Matters?
This position is crucial in ensuring political stability, peace, and security in Sierra Leone and the Mano River Union region. It helps prevent conflicts by addressing political disputes, electoral tensions, and transnational security threat
Certainly! Below is a more comprehensive explanation of the job posting for the Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist at UNDP in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Position Overview:
The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Freetown, Sierra Leone, plays a pivotal role in guiding and supporting Sierra Leone and the Mano River Union (MRU) region in addressing and preventing conflicts, promoting peacebuilding, and fostering political dialogue. This specialist will work within the framework of UNDP’s mission to assist nations in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on promoting peace, good governance, and social inclusion.
The primary objective of this role is to enhance the capacity of national, sub-regional, and regional institutions to manage conflicts, foster political stability, and promote peacebuilding efforts. This entails providing technical advice on peacebuilding strategies, facilitating cross-border cooperation, and implementing programs designed to strengthen peace and stability at national and regional levels. The specialist will also work in partnership with both local and international stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, donors, and intergovernmental bodies, to implement conflict prevention strategies and ensure the peaceful resolution of political disputes.
Background of the Role:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates with a focus on eradicating poverty and inequality while enhancing democratic governance, the rule of law, and inclusive institutions. A critical part of UNDP’s strategy is addressing the underlying causes of conflict, empowering marginalized groups, and fostering collaboration to build peaceful, secure, and stable societies. This role aligns with the global framework outlined in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The UNDP Sierra Leone office has played a central role in strengthening democracy and political governance in Sierra Leone, particularly in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections. The disputed electoral results and political crisis led to a political impasse and prolonged negotiations, requiring an extended commitment by UNDP through its project: “Fostering Peaceful, Credible and Inclusive Elections 2022-2023.” This project aims to mediate political conflicts, build institutional capacities, and support electoral reforms, extending its support from December 2023 to August 2025. A major milestone in the project was the signing of the Agreement for National Unity in October 2023 between the Government of Sierra Leone and the All People’s Congress (APC) opposition party, which helped resolve the political deadlock and set a framework for ongoing political cooperation.
The role of the Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist is especially important in this context, as it contributes to the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and supports ongoing peacebuilding efforts in Sierra Leone and the broader West African region. The Mano River Union (MRU), which includes Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire, has been an important partner in promoting peace, governance, and security in the region, and this role will help coordinate cross-border peacebuilding efforts.
Key Responsibilities:
The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist will be responsible for a broad range of activities in the areas of policy advice, programme development, partnerships, resource mobilization, knowledge management, and reporting. Below are the primary responsibilities:
1. Analysis, Policy Advice, and Development:
- Situational Analysis: One of the key duties of the Specialist will be to regularly analyze the political, socio-economic, and security developments in Sierra Leone, the Mano River Union (MRU) region, and the broader West African region. These analyses will help inform UNDP’s strategies for conflict prevention and peacebuilding, allowing the organization to take anticipatory actions and make informed decisions.
- Advisory Support for Policy Development: The Specialist will provide expert advice to national and sub-regional institutions, helping them develop and implement gender-sensitive peacebuilding policies. This involves facilitating political dialogue, peace negotiations, and the development of frameworks for conflict resolution that are inclusive of women and marginalized communities.
- Capacity Strengthening: The Specialist will also focus on building the capacity of national stakeholders, including government institutions and civil society organizations, to prevent conflicts and manage peacebuilding processes effectively. This will include training, mentoring, and technical support to institutions involved in conflict management.
- Conflict Resolution Dialogues: The specialist will play a direct role in facilitating dialogues and mediation efforts that aim to resolve ongoing political tensions and prevent future conflicts. This includes promoting inter-party dialogue, cross-border political cooperation, and addressing ethnic and regional tensions.
- Reporting and Documentation: The Specialist will prepare background papers, policy briefs, briefing notes, and talking points to inform key stakeholders of the situation on the ground and provide recommendations for action.
2. Programme Development and Implementation:
- Programmatic Support: The Specialist will assist in developing and implementing conflict prevention and peacebuilding programs, particularly those related to the UNDP PBF project on elections. This will involve working with government bodies and civil society to create programs aimed at fostering post-electoral peace and ensuring political stability.
- Integration of Conflict Sensitivity: The Specialist will work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that conflict sensitivity is integrated into development projects designed to foster peace, cohesion, and stability after the elections. This will involve assessing project activities and ensuring that they do not inadvertently exacerbate existing conflicts or create new tensions.
- Support for Electoral Reforms: As part of the Agreement for National Unity, the Specialist will provide technical advice on the implementation of electoral reforms. This includes working on the operationalization of the Inter-Party Dialogue Framework and supporting the review of electoral management bodies.
- Cross-Border Projects: The Specialist will also be involved in developing and implementing cross-border projects aimed at promoting good governance, economic cooperation, and social cohesion. These initiatives will specifically focus on youth empowerment, SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises), and regional integration within the MRU countries.
3. Partnerships, Resource Mobilization, and Representation:
- Building Partnerships: The Specialist will be responsible for fostering and strengthening strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including national government institutions, regional organizations (like the MRU), civil society organizations, think tanks, and international donors.
- Resource Mobilization: A critical aspect of the role will be identifying and advising on opportunities for resource mobilization to support peacebuilding programs. The Specialist will work on project proposals to attract funding and ensure the successful implementation of peace initiatives.
- Representation of UNDP: The Specialist will represent UNDP in various national and regional meetings focused on conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and electoral reform. This involves engaging with political leaders, development partners, and UN agencies to advance the peace agenda in Sierra Leone and the wider region.
4. Knowledge Management and Reporting:
- Knowledge Products: The Specialist will contribute to the development of knowledge products and share best practices and lessons learned from peacebuilding and conflict prevention programs. This involves creating materials that document successful approaches and solutions that can be replicated in similar contexts.
- Cross-Regional Knowledge Sharing: The Specialist will also facilitate exchanges of knowledge and expertise between different UNDP offices, regional stakeholders, and communities of practice to ensure that peacebuilding efforts are informed by diverse experiences and insights.
- Reporting and Documentation: Regular progress reports, narrative reports, and technical briefs will be required. The Specialist will also participate in project board and technical committee meetings to report on the status of project activities and ensure that they are on track to meet the intended goals.
Impact of the Role:
The work of the Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist will have a profound impact on Sierra Leone, the Mano River Union, and the broader West African region. By strengthening institutional capacities for conflict management, the Specialist will help prevent future political crises and contribute to the stabilization of the region.
Additionally, the role supports cross-border cooperation, especially on issues related to governance, trade, and regional security. The Specialist will ensure that UNDP’s programs are responsive to local needs, grounded in inclusive governance, and aligned with international peacebuilding standards.
The Specialist’s expertise and leadership will position UNDP as a reliable partner in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and democratic consolidation, making significant contributions to long-term stability and development in Sierra Leone and West Africa as a whole.
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s) in areas like Development Studies, Political Science, International Relations, or Public Administration is required.
- A Bachelor’s degree in a related field, with 7 years of relevant experience, is also acceptable.
Experience:
- 5 years (with a Master’s) or 7 years (with a Bachelor’s) of experience in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, good governance, or mediation.
- Experience in working with UNDP or other international organizations is highly desirable.
- Experience in developing countries, particularly in contexts of political or electoral conflict, is preferred.
Skills:
- Proficiency in MS Office and web-based management systems.
- Strong analytical, communication, and reporting skills.
- Ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and donors.
Language:
- Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is required.
Conclusion:
This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to peacebuilding and conflict prevention efforts in Sierra Leone and the Mano River Union region. The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist will play a crucial role in addressing political tensions, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that the region remains on a path to peace and prosperity.
Certainly! Here’s an expanded explanation of the Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist position with even more detail on the role, expectations, and its broader impact.
Expanded Overview:
The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist role at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Freetown, Sierra Leone represents a crucial strategic position in fostering long-term peace, political stability, and regional cooperation in West Africa. With UNDP’s mission rooted in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this position not only emphasizes the importance of governance, rule of law, and inclusive institutions but also places a premium on the intersection between conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and democratic consolidation.
UNDP’s role in Sierra Leone, particularly through the Elections Project and its efforts in addressing post-electoral challenges, plays an integral part in shaping the political landscape of the country and the broader Mano River Union (MRU). The Mano River Union encompasses several West African nations including Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire, and is an important regional framework for promoting peace, democracy, and socio-economic development. The political, economic, and social dynamics within these countries often present significant challenges, but also open up significant opportunities for collaboration and shared progress.
The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist will work within this framework to guide the processes of conflict management, peacebuilding strategies, political dialogue, and social cohesion. The specialist will ensure that strategies to prevent conflict and mediate peace are integrated into various national and regional processes, ensuring they reflect the diverse needs and contexts of Sierra Leone, the Mano River Union, and West Africa at large.
Key Responsibilities (In-depth):
The Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist is expected to take on several key responsibilities. The following is an in-depth look at those responsibilities:
1. Analysis, Policy Advice, and Development:
- Situational Analysis and Assessment: As part of this responsibility, the Specialist will provide continuous and regular situational analysis of the political, social, and economic developments that may contribute to instability or conflict in Sierra Leone and the broader MRU region. This analysis is not limited to mere observation; it involves an in-depth understanding of local contexts, such as the consequences of political tension, ethnic divisions, economic inequality, and interstate dynamics. These analyses will enable UNDP to devise and implement effective conflict mitigation strategies in the short, medium, and long term. The insights provided will also help UNDP and partners stay ahead of potential flashpoints for conflict, ensuring that preventive actions are taken before tensions escalate.
- Advisory Support for Policy Development and Implementation: The specialist will advise government institutions, civil society organizations, and regional organizations on developing and adopting peacebuilding and conflict prevention policies. These policies must be inclusive, gender-sensitive, and take into account the regional specificities of Sierra Leone and the MRU. This advisory role will also include helping to design actionable frameworks for addressing the root causes of conflict, fostering inter-party dialogues, and ensuring gender equality in the process of peacebuilding and political reconciliation.
- Developing and Promoting Peacebuilding Strategies: Through political analysis, the specialist will assist in developing strategies that promote social cohesion, prevent violent extremism, and improve the general security situation. This will include promoting mediation and negotiation to resolve intra-party disputes, political instability, and regional tensions. Special attention will be paid to conflict resolution dialogues, both within Sierra Leone and with its neighboring countries in the Mano River Union. These efforts will help create an environment conducive to peace and democratic consolidation.
- Conflict Management Capacity Building: A key aspect of this role is capacity building for relevant stakeholders in the peacebuilding process, such as government bodies, parliamentarians, electoral bodies, civil society organizations, and security forces. Through training workshops, technical support, and collaborative initiatives, the specialist will enhance these stakeholders’ ability to manage conflict effectively, ensuring that they are prepared to respond to emerging threats to peace and stability. This will also involve establishing networks for ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange between these entities.
2. Programme Development and Implementation:
- Program Design and Execution: The specialist will support the design, development, and execution of comprehensive conflict prevention and peacebuilding programs. This includes overseeing the implementation of specific UNDP-funded projects like the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), which focuses on creating sustainable post-election peace. The specialist will help ensure these programs are aligned with national development priorities, particularly those related to electoral reform, good governance, and socio-economic stability.
- Ensuring Conflict Sensitivity in Development Programs: This responsibility will require the specialist to work closely with project teams to incorporate conflict sensitivity into the design and implementation of all UNDP programs. This means assessing the conflict risk of each project, ensuring that they do not inadvertently worsen tensions or inequalities. It also includes designing interventions that address the drivers of conflict while promoting peace and unity. In post-electoral contexts, this can include programs aimed at reconciliation, trust-building, and addressing grievances.
- Electoral Reform and Political Dialogue: A significant part of the specialist’s role will involve ensuring that the Agreement for National Unity and its associated electoral reforms are fully operationalized. This will involve coordinating efforts with political parties, electoral commissions, and other relevant stakeholders to support electoral integrity and strengthen democratic processes. The specialist will also work on promoting political dialogue and establishing forums for cross-party discussions, aimed at resolving any outstanding political issues.
3. Partnerships, Resource Mobilization, and Representation:
- Fostering Strategic Partnerships: To achieve its goals, the specialist will focus on fostering strategic partnerships with various stakeholders such as government entities, local civil society, regional organizations, international development agencies, and donors. These partnerships will help to align peacebuilding efforts with the needs of local communities and regional priorities.
- Resource Mobilization for Peacebuilding Programs: Resource mobilization is a critical responsibility of the specialist. They will need to engage with potential donors and partners to secure funding for peacebuilding projects, particularly those focused on post-conflict recovery, youth empowerment, and cross-border trade. By presenting the potential long-term benefits of peace and stability in the region, the specialist will secure the financial and technical support needed for these critical initiatives.
- Representing UNDP at Key Political Dialogues: The specialist will represent UNDP in various national and regional meetings on issues related to conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and democratic governance. These engagements will be with national leaders, diplomats, and donors, aiming to create a shared vision for regional peace and stability. The specialist will also promote the role of UNDP as a facilitator of high-level political dialogues that aim to mediate conflicts, promote national reconciliation, and foster international collaboration.
4. Knowledge Management and Reporting:
- Managing Knowledge Products: The specialist will play a key role in knowledge management, which involves documenting lessons learned, developing best practice guidelines, and sharing findings from the implementation of conflict prevention and peacebuilding projects. This knowledge-sharing will be facilitated through regional workshops, online platforms, and regular technical briefs.
- Developing Policy Documents: As part of the role, the specialist will draft policy documents, progress reports, and technical briefs that outline the status of ongoing projects and provide recommendations for continued or enhanced interventions. These reports will also analyze the impact of peacebuilding efforts and highlight any emerging challenges or risks to the projects’ success.
- Ensuring Effective Communication and Reporting: The specialist will report on the progress of conflict prevention and peacebuilding projects, including preparation of narrative reports for UNDP’s internal use and external stakeholders. They will also contribute to annual reviews of UNDP’s regional peacebuilding efforts and ensure alignment with both national priorities and UNDP’s strategic goals.
Impact of the Role on the Broader Context:
The impact of the Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Specialist role extends beyond the borders of Sierra Leone. By supporting regional peacebuilding efforts, the specialist will help shape the future of the Mano River Union (MRU), where longstanding tensions between neighboring countries could have significant implications for regional stability.
The specialist’s efforts in cross-border cooperation and social cohesion are critical for promoting peace not only in Sierra Leone but also in neighboring states. By fostering collaboration between national governments, civil society organizations, and regional bodies, this role will enhance the regional capacity to prevent conflict, reduce violence, and promote economic integration. Furthermore, by promoting the inclusion of marginalized groups in the peace process, especially women and youth, the specialist ensures that the peacebuilding efforts have a holistic, sustainable impact on communities throughout the region.
Qualifications and Experience:
The role requires an individual with a strong combination of education, experience, and skills in the fields of development, peacebuilding, and governance. As outlined in the job description, a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree with additional relevant experience is required. Additionally, candidates should possess at least 5 years of relevant experience in international development with a focus on governance, conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and mediation.
The candidate should also demonstrate a deep understanding of regional dynamics, political processes, and conflict resolution mechanisms. Previous experience working in post-conflict settings, particularly in West Africa, will be an asset, as will familiarity with UNDP’s operations and peacebuilding methodologies.
