UN Policy and Data Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Resident Coordinator System is a vital part of the United Nations, responsible for coordinating operational activities for development across various UN organizations. The UNRC represents the UN Secretary-General and leads the UN Country Team (UNCT), ensuring that development activities align with the UN's mission. The UNRC Office for Mauritius and Seychelles operates with a multi-country status, with its main office in Mauritius and a Liaison Office in Victoria, Seychelles. The organization focuses on strategic analysis, planning, and implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), which governs cooperation between the UN and the governments of Mauritius and Seychelles to achieve their development priorities. The UNRC is dedicated to enhancing the coherence of the UN System through joint policy research, advocacy, and communications, making it an essential player in the development landscape of both countries.

Job Overview:
The UN RCO for Mauritius and Seychelles is seeking an intern who is passionate about the UN development system and eager to contribute to its mission of enhancing UN coherence. This internship offers a unique opportunity to learn about the UN's operations at the country level, particularly during the implementation of the UNSDCF 2024-202

• The intern will gain insights into the roles of various UN agencies, the programming process, and the interaction between the UN and government counterparts. The internship will involve assisting in policy research, drafting briefs, supporting communications initiatives, and organizing events related to policy and advocacy. The intern will report to the RCO Team Leader and will be based at the Liaison Office in Victoria, Seychelles, with a preference for in-person participation, although remote arrangements may be considered.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will support various activities related to policy, advocacy, and communications for the RCO and UNCT. Key responsibilities include:

• Policy Research and Support: Assisting in researching current policies, regulations, and laws relevant to UNSDCF focus areas; conducting background research and analysis to support UN positioning and advocacy; drafting policy briefs and internal reports as needed.
• Advocacy, Communications, and Visibility Support: Preparing advocacy materials and communication products for stakeholders; supporting visibility efforts related to UN campaigns and strategic events.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Event Coordination: Coordinating with government counterparts, UN agencies, and civil society; organizing meetings, workshops, and high-level events; handling logistical preparations for events, including invitations and agendas; documenting follow-up actions from meetings.
• Continuous Learning and Development: Participating in training opportunities to enhance skills in policy analysis and advocacy; staying updated on trends and emerging issues in relevant fields.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience, but a relevant field of study is essential. Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's, or Ph.D. program, or have completed such a program. Preferred fields of study include Public Policy, Public Administration, International Development Studies, International Relations, Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, Economics, or other relevant disciplines. Proof of enrollment or completion of the required educational criteria must be provided with the application.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such a program. This educational background should be closely related to the internship's focus areas, ensuring that the intern possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and understanding of the UN's operational context.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background in relevant fields. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are eager to learn and contribute to the UN's mission, making it an ideal opportunity for those looking to gain practical experience in international development and policy.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it is also a working language within the UN system. Proficiency in both languages will enhance the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute effectively to communications and advocacy efforts.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not subjected to any financial burdens.