Internship in Internal Communications

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD is preparing for its 16th quadrennial conference, UNCTAD16, which will take place in Geneva in October 2025, highlighting its ongoing commitment to addressing global economic challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Internal Communications team at UNCTAD offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with the inner workings of a major international organization. Interns will be involved in supporting the communications efforts leading up to UNCTAD16, contributing to the development of internal content that informs and engages staff. This role is particularly suited for individuals interested in communications, international relations, and the dynamics of working in a multicultural environment. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, and will be expected to contribute actively to the team's initiatives, ensuring that internal communications are effective and engaging. The internship is unpaid, and candidates must have valid health insurance and a visa for Switzerland during their stay.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting internal storytelling by gathering stories, drafting updates, and preparing content that highlights the work and people involved in UNCTAD1
• Contributing to digital communications by updating the intranet and internal channels, proposing content ideas, and preparing materials for publication.
• Participating in planning internal activations, brainstorming campaign ideas, and assisting in the preparation of visuals and event-related materials.
• Observing all applicable rules and regulations of the UN, ensuring compliance with the organization's directives.
• Providing copies of all materials prepared during the internship to the receiving departments.
• Respecting the confidentiality and impartiality required by the UN, refraining from sharing any internal information without authorization.
• Maintaining a professional demeanor that reflects positively on the UN and its objectives.
• Understanding that there is no expectation of employment with the UN following the internship, and adhering to the six-month restriction on applying for professional positions within the organization after the internship ends.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the UN internship programme, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, familiarity with digital communication platforms such as SharePoint and Mailchimp is advantageous. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a diverse team are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's, or PhD programme, or have completed one of these degrees. Proof of enrollment or completion will be required during the application process. The internship is designed to enhance the educational experience of students and recent graduates, providing them with practical experience in the workings of the UN.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required to apply for this internship. The program is intended to provide students and recent graduates with exposure to the UN and its operations, allowing them to gain valuable experience that complements their academic training. Applicants should demonstrate how their education, coursework, or skills will benefit the UN during their internship.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this internship, reflecting the multilingual culture of Switzerland and the international nature of the UN in Geneva. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for all personal costs, including travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. Interns must ensure they have valid health insurance coverage in Switzerland for the duration of the internship. The internship is full-time, requiring a commitment of 40 hours per week. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.