Intern - Sexual and Reproductive Health

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the leading UN agency dedicated to achieving a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues, working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). UNFPA's mission is reinforced by its Strategic Plan for 2026-2029, which emphasizes ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence.

Job Overview:
The Intern will work under the direct supervision of the Regional Sexual and Reproductive Health Specialist at the Arab States Regional Office. The role involves supporting the regional team in advancing sexual and reproductive health initiatives. The intern will engage in a comprehensive work plan that includes achievable milestones and learning opportunities, with regular progress meetings to enhance skills and capacity in alignment with UNFPA’s mandate. The position is designed to provide valuable insights into the workings of UNFPA and the broader UN system, particularly in the context of sexual and reproductive health in the Arab region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As an Intern with the SRH Team, the responsibilities include conducting background research and developing concept notes for the SRH team, providing logistical support for the Arab Regional Midwifery Advisory Group (ARMAG), monitoring and supporting midwifery activities, and assisting in the validation and early roll-out of a multi-year communication plan. The intern will also help organize online regional meetings, document lessons learned, and contribute to presentations and internal reports. This role is crucial for strengthening sexual and reproductive health initiatives across the region and ensuring effective communication and coordination among stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in sexual and reproductive health, particularly in maternal health or health workforce issues. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required, with Arabic fluency preferred. The ability to adapt to new environments and maintain positive working relationships with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is essential. Strong analytical and writing skills, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work harmoniously with staff from different national and cultural backgrounds are also important.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be currently enrolled in a first university degree program (such as a Bachelor’s degree) and have completed at least one full academic year, or be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program (such as a Master’s program). Recent graduates who have completed their degree within the last year are also eligible, provided they can commence the internship within one year of graduation. Alternatively, candidates enrolled in a postgraduate professional trainee program may undertake the internship as part of their program.

Experience:
Some experience working in development, including volunteer work, is preferred. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to work in multicultural settings and possess strong analytical and writing skills. Experience in health-related fields or with NGOs would be advantageous, as would any previous involvement in sexual and reproductive health initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Arabic is preferred. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate in a multilingual environment and engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their living expenses, accommodation, travel, and other requirements. However, a stipend may be provided to help cover basic daily expenses if the intern is not financially supported by another institution. Interns must have medical insurance for the entire duration of the internship, and proof of insurance is required before starting. The work environment at UNFPA promotes gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process.