Internship in Peacebuilding Commission Support Branch

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Secretariat is a vital part of the UN system, established to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization operates globally, with a mission to address pressing global challenges through diplomacy, humanitarian assistance, and development initiatives. The UN Secretariat employs thousands of staff members from diverse backgrounds and operates in multiple countries, focusing on various issues such as human rights, sustainable development, and peacebuilding.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience within the Peacebuilding Commission Support Branch (PCSB) of the United Nations. Interns will engage in a variety of tasks that support the branch's mission to promote peace and stability in conflict-affected areas. The internship is structured to be full-time, requiring 35 hours per week, but can be adjusted to part-time (20 hours per week) or remote work depending on the intern's needs. Interns will report to Senior Political Affairs Officers and will have the opportunity to work on substantive issues while assisting with day-to-day operations. This role is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical experience in international relations, peacebuilding, and organizational support within a prestigious global institution.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a range of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting research and compiling background materials for meetings and reports; assisting in the coordination of service-wide activities such as meetings and training sessions; supporting the management and development of internal databases; updating the branch's website; generating statistical reports from various databases; preparing presentation materials using appropriate technology and software; and performing various administrative duties as requested. The internship aims to provide interns with the opportunity to work independently on substantive issues while also collaborating with colleagues on operational tasks. Interns are encouraged to explore training options available to UN staff, enhancing their professional development during their time at the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) 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, applicants should have a field of study closely related to the internship. Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree program must be provided with the application. Additionally, applicants must be able to demonstrate their motivation and suitability for the internship through a well-crafted Motivational Statement.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field relevant to the internship, such as international relations, political science, peace studies, or a related discipline. The internship is open to students in their final year of a bachelor's degree program, as well as those pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. Proof of academic status must be included in the application process, and candidates should be prepared to provide an official certificate later if selected.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to peacebuilding, international relations, or administrative support. The focus is on candidates who are eager to learn and contribute to the UN's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it is also a working language of the UN. Familiarity with other official UN languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week, with the possibility of part-time arrangements. The duration of the internship is initially set for three months, with a potential extension to six months based on performance and organizational needs. The United Nations is committed to gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Applicants who have previously served as interns in the UN Common System for a total of six months are ineligible for this position. Additionally, family members of active UN staff are not eligible for internship positions. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.