Internship at Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO)

Job Posting Organization:
The Financing for sustainable-development-office" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) is part of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. The mission of FSDO is to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to promote sustainable financing strategies that align with the goals of the United Nations. The organization was established to address the financing needs of developing countries and to facilitate partnerships between various stakeholders. The office operates globally, engaging with member states, international organizations, and civil society to foster sustainable development initiatives. The number of employees varies, but the office is staffed by a diverse group of professionals dedicated to advancing sustainable development goals.

Job Overview:
The internship at the Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical experience in the field of sustainable development financing. Interns will work under the supervision of experienced staff members, gaining insights into the operations of the United Nations and the specific functions of the FSDO. The internship is structured to be full-time, requiring interns to commit to 35 hours per week. While the internship is primarily in-person at the New York duty station, there is flexibility for remote or hybrid arrangements based on the successful candidate's situation. Interns will be involved in various projects and tasks that contribute to the office's mission, providing them with valuable exposure to international development work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be expected to perform a variety of tasks that support the work of the Financing for Sustainable Development Office. These duties may include conducting research on sustainable financing practices, assisting in the preparation of reports and presentations, participating in meetings and discussions, and providing administrative support to staff members. Interns will also have the opportunity to engage with other UN agencies and stakeholders, contributing to collaborative projects and initiatives. The internship aims to enhance the interns' understanding of the UN's role in sustainable development and to develop their professional skills in a real-world setting.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered for the internship. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, candidates should have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that interns can effectively contribute to the office's work and gain relevant experience in their area of study.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a student in the final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or being enrolled in or having completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. This educational requirement is essential as it ensures that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to engage with the tasks assigned to them during the internship. Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree must be provided during the application process.

Experience:
While the internship does not require prior professional work experience, it is essential that applicants have a strong academic background in a field related to sustainable development, economics, finance, or a similar discipline. This academic foundation will enable interns to understand the complexities of sustainable financing and contribute meaningfully to the office's projects. The internship is particularly suited for individuals who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in an international organization.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for the internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another official language of the UN. Candidates who possess proficiency in other official UN languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, will have an advantage, as these languages are considered assets in the context of the internship.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization prior to accepting the internship offer. The internship duration is expected to be between 2 to 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on the needs of the department. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all qualified candidates.