Observe new developments in foreign countries

Observe political, economic and societal developments in the assigned country, gather and report relevant information to the relevant institution.

look at new developments in foreign countries
look at new overseas developments
scrutinise new developments in foreign countries
monitor new developments in foreign countries
detect new developments in foreign countries
monitor new overseas developments
detect new overseas developments
scrutinise new overseas developments

skill/competence

cross-sector

Observe new developments in foreign countries is an essential skill of the following occupations:

Ambassador: Ambassadors represent their own government in foreign countries for diplomatic and peace-keeping purposes. They deal with political negotiation between the country of origin and the country where they are stationed and ensure the protection of citizens from their home nation in the nation they are stationed. They facilitate communication between the two nations and perform advisory functions to the home government to help develop foreign policy.
Diplomat: Diplomats represent their home nation and government in international organisations. They negotiate with the organisation’s officials to ensure the home nation’s interests are protected, as well as facilitate productive and friendly communication between the home nation and the international organisation.
Foreign correspondent: Foreign correspondents research and write news stories of international importance for newspapers, journals, magazines, radio, television and other media. They are stationed in a foreign country.
Embassy counsellor: Embassy counsellors supervise specific sections in an embassy, such as economics, defence or political affairs. They perform advisory functions for the ambassador, and perform diplomatic functions in their section or specialty. They develop policies and implementation methods and supervise the embassy section’s staff.

Observe new developments in foreign countries is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this skill may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Political scientist: Political scientists study political behaviour, activity and systems, including the elements that fall therein. Their study of the field ranges from the origins and evolution of various political systems to topical matters such as decision-making processes, political behaviour, political trends, society, and power perspectives. They advise governments and institutional organisations on governance matters.
Immigration policy officer: Immigration policy officers develop strategies for the integration of refugees and asylum seekers, and policies for the transit of people from one nation to another. They aim to improve international cooperation and communication on the subject of immigration, as well as efficiency of immigration and integration procedures.
Political affairs officer: Political affairs officers analyse developments in foreign politics and other policy matters, monitor conflicts and consult on mediation measures, as well as other developmental strategies. They write reports to ensure communication with governmental bodies, and develop policies and implementation methods.
Journalist: Journalists research, verify and write news stories for newspapers, magazines, television and other broadcast media. They cover political, economic, cultural, social and sport events. Journalists must conform to ethical codes such as freedom of speech and right of reply, press law and editorial standards in order to bring objective information.
Policy officer: Policy officers research, analyse and develop policies in various public sectors, and shape and implement these policies to improve the existing regulation around the sector. They evaluate effects of existing policies and report findings to the government and members of the public. Policy officers work closely with partners, external organisations or other stakeholders and provide them with regular updates.
Immigration adviser: Immigration advisers aid people seeking to move from one nation to another by advising them on immigration legislation, and assisting them in obtaining the necessary documentation to ensure the immigration process occurs in accordance with immigration laws.
Political journalist: Political journalists research and write articles about politics and politicians for newspapers, magazines, television and other media. They conduct interviews and attend events.
Foreign affairs officer: Foreign affairs officers analyse foreign affairs policies and operations, and write reports outlining their analyses in a clear and comprehensible manner. They communicate with parties who benefit from their findings, and act as advisers in the development or implementation of or reporting on foreign policy. Foreign affairs officers may also perform administrative duties in the department, such as assisting with problems concerning passports and visas. They promote friendly and open communication between different nations’ governments and institutions.

References

1. Observe new developments in foreign countries – ESCO