Internship at the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG)

Job Posting Organization:
The Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG) is a part of the United Nations, which aims to provide leadership and catalyze action in promoting and coordinating the implementation of internationally agreed development goals, including the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization plays a crucial role in supporting Member States and other stakeholders in responding to global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, while continuing to advance its work in sustainable development. The DSDG is committed to fostering collaboration and innovation in addressing pressing global issues, and it operates in various countries around the world, engaging with diverse stakeholders to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to be in-person and full-time, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week, although adjustments can be made based on the successful candidate's requests. The expected duration of the internship is between 2 to 6 months. Interns will have the opportunity to learn and work in a dynamic environment where new approaches and methodologies are being implemented and tested. They will contribute to virtual activities, including webinars and online training, and engage collaboratively in research and analysis. Interns will also draft and review documents on various topics and interact with stakeholders from different sectors and parts of the world, gaining valuable experience in the field of sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will assist with the organization of virtual events and training sessions, which includes preparing agendas, co-drafting background materials, and creating meeting reports. They will provide technical support to moderators during virtual events, assist with outreach efforts, prepare summaries, review participant lists, and prepare documents for online posting. Additionally, interns will support research for the preparation of papers and reports related to the work of the Branch by collecting data from multiple resources and analyzing it. They will also research and organize information, assist with analyzing trends, and participate in virtual UN Headquarters events as appropriate. Interns will help organize upcoming conferences, such as the outcomes of the 3rd UN Ocean Conference and the Water Conference in 2026, as well as the Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs (STI Forum). Other ad hoc activities related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) may also be assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent or higher, such as a Master's degree or equivalent, Ph.D. or postgraduate degree). Alternatively, candidates may be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent). Applicants who are within a few years of graduation and could not apply earlier due to compelling family circumstances or are changing careers may also be considered on a case-by-case basis. This internship is designed for individuals who are entering the workforce for the first time or are in the early stages of their careers.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or a first university degree program. This means that candidates should have a strong academic foundation, ideally in fields related to sustainable development, international relations, public policy, or similar areas that align with the work of the United Nations and the DSDG.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in sustainable development and international cooperation. The internship is particularly suited for individuals who are at the beginning of their careers or are transitioning into new fields, allowing them to gain practical experience and insights into the workings of the United Nations and its initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, meaning that they will not receive a salary for their work. Therefore, costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. 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/employment authorization. It is essential for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.