Overview of actors

Swiss Expert Pool for Civilian Peacebuilding
(
SEP
)

The Peace and Human Rights Division (PHRD) and its Expert Pool for Civilian Peacebuilding is part of the State Secretariat of the FDFA.

The promotion of peace and human rights is a priority of Swiss foreign policy. The centrepiece of this policy is the protection of individuals and their dignity. Every human being should be able to live in peace, free of fear and need. Switzerland works not only on the ground but also in international organisations in order to make this possible. Since its launch in 2000, the SEP has been an effective peace and human rights policy instrument for Switzerland.

Focusing on the following sustainable development goals (SDGs)

How we work

Every year, Switzerland sends some 200 civilian experts to international organisations to promote peace and human rights. These experts work either at the headquarters of international organisations or at peace missions in regions affected by conflict. The Swiss Expert Pool for Civilian Peacebuilding selects vacancies in international organisations based on Switzerland's thematic and geographic priorities and then proposes specialists with the corresponding profile to the organisation.

... and why

The Federal Constitution of the Swiss Confederation explicitly stipulates that in its foreign relations Switzerland must promote respect for human rights and democracy and the peaceful coexistence of peoples (Art. 54).
On 1 May 2004, the Federal Act on Measures pertaining to Civil Peace Support and the Promotion of Human Rights took effect. The Peace and Human Rights Division is responsible for its implementation.

Career opportunities

Seeking candidates mainly in

External Relations

Human Rights, Law and Governance

Monitoring and Evaluation

Political Affairs and Peacekeeping

Opportunities offered

Internships for students yes

Traineeships/Talent programs for graduates yes

Positions/programs for young professionals yes

Staff positions for professionals yes

Senior or management positions yes

Consultancy opportunities no

Note:

The Expert Pool for Civilian Peacebuilding (SEP) selects vacancies from international organisations according to Switzerland's thematic and geographical priorities. It examines the applications, makes a preliminary selection and then nominates candidates for the attention of the respective organisations.

See current vacancies on cinfoPoste