UNCTAD Internship in the Division on International Trade and Commodities

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a mission to support developing nations in their efforts to achieve sustainable development through trade and investment. UNCTAD's work encompasses a wide range of areas including trade policy, investment, technology, and sustainable development, making it a key player in global economic discussions.

Job Overview:
The UNCTAD internship program is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical experience in the field of international trade and development. Interns are expected to work full-time, five days a week, for a duration of six months, starting from August 17, 2026, to February 16, 202

• The internship can be conducted either in-person or remotely, depending on the intern's availability. Interns will be assigned to the Trade in Services Section within the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC) and will engage in various tasks that contribute to the organization's objectives. The internship aims to enhance the educational experience of participants while providing them with insights into the workings of the UN and its initiatives in trade and development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a diverse set of responsibilities that may vary based on their background and the specific department they are assigned to. Key duties include attending meetings and preparing summary reports, supporting communication and outreach activities related to the work program, assisting in organizing webinars, round tables, and seminars, providing inputs for documentation related to technical cooperation programs, drafting technical papers and analytical studies on services trade data and policy, and preparing presentations for team members. Interns are also expected to adhere to the UN's rules and regulations, respect confidentiality, and maintain impartiality throughout their internship. Training and mentoring will be provided by supervisors and colleagues to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the UNCTAD internship, applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, possess a keen interest in the UN's work, and have the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. A university degree in economics, statistics, international trade, trade law, or a related field is required. Knowledge of Excel is desirable, while familiarity with Power BI, Stata, or R is considered an advantage. No prior work experience is necessary, but a relevant field of study is essential for the internship.

Educational Background:
Applicants must have a university degree in a relevant field such as economics, development, law, political science, or other social sciences. They should be either students in their final year of a bachelor's program, or have completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. Proof of enrollment or completion of the degree is required at the time of application, and candidates must be able to provide an official certificate later in the process.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship. However, candidates should have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. The program is designed to provide practical experience to students and recent graduates, enhancing their educational background with real-world applications in the UN context.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of another UN language is considered desirable, as it may enhance the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern. Interns must have a valid visa if they are participating in-person. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of employment within the UN following the internship. Interns are not eligible to apply for professional positions within the UN for six months after completing their internship. Additionally, applicants who are related to UN staff members must not be assigned to the same work unit or be under the direct supervision of the staff member.