Intern for Political Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Secretariat is a global organization founded in 1945, dedicated to promoting peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. It operates in multiple countries around the world, with a mission to address global challenges and foster international collaboration. The organization employs thousands of staff members from diverse backgrounds and is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience within the Office of the Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions (OROLSI) in the Department of Peace Operations (DPO). The intern will engage in various activities that support the office's mandate, which includes monitoring political developments, conducting research, and assisting in the preparation of reports and documents. The role is intended to be full-time, requiring 35 hours per week, but may be adjusted to accommodate part-time or remote work based on the intern's needs. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the workings of the United Nations and contribute to important discussions on rule of law and security issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of tasks, including monitoring activities in relevant countries and regions, identifying trends, and assessing emerging political and operational issues that may impact OROLSI's activities. They will attend meetings and prepare concise summary notes with action points, conduct research on thematic topics, and monitor developments in inter-governmental fora related to the office's policy and operational priorities. Additionally, the intern will support the drafting of notes, background papers, talking points, presentations, and speeches for senior UN officials. They will also assist in planning and implementing meetings, events, and policy dialogues, as well as coordinating and consolidating information from various offices for reports and submissions. Other related duties may be assigned as required.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Candidates must provide proof of their academic status and may need to submit an official certificate later in the application process.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field relevant to the internship, such as political science, international relations, law, or a related discipline. The internship is open to students in the final year of their bachelor's degree, as well as those in master's or Ph.D. programs. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the internship, emphasizing the importance of relevant academic training.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a requirement for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and relevant coursework that aligns with the duties of the position. Experience in research, writing, or involvement in related projects may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, is considered an advantage. The official languages of the United Nations include Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish, and proficiency in any of these languages can enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and candidates are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents may need to obtain a G-4 visa to undertake the internship. The United Nations emphasizes that all applicants must be authorized to work in the country where the internship will take place, whether remotely, hybrid, or on-site. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and encourages female candidates to apply to promote gender balance.