Intern, Political Affairs (Political Monitoring and Analysis on Western Africa)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries around the world, with a significant presence in areas requiring humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution. The organization employs thousands of individuals across diverse fields, including political affairs, humanitarian aid, and development, striving for a balanced representation of genders and nationalities within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in political affairs, specifically focusing on the Western Africa Division (WAD) within the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations (DPPA-DPO) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The intern will engage in a variety of tasks that involve monitoring and analyzing political and security developments in West Africa and the Sahel region. This role is crucial for supporting the Division's efforts in addressing challenges and threats in the region, particularly in relation to the implementation of the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS). The intern will work closely with a Senior Political Affairs Officer and will be expected to contribute to the Division's objectives through research, reporting, and analysis, while also gaining insights into the workings of the UN and international diplomacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: monitoring and analyzing key political and security developments in West Africa and the Sahel; providing a daily news feed based on situation reports, press clippings, and media reports; summarizing key public and academic articles related to West Africa and the Sahel, with a focus on climate security; preparing weekly reports on developments in the region; tracking the implementation of the UNISS and establishing a repository of information; assisting in the preparation of briefing materials for senior UN officials; participating in meetings and drafting minutes or summaries; conducting individual research assignments; and performing any other duties as requested by the supervising officer. This comprehensive set of responsibilities will provide the intern with a well-rounded experience in political affairs and analysis.

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 level or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Applicants must also be able to provide proof of their academic status and may need to submit an official certificate later in the application process. Experience in drafting analytical papers, briefs, meeting minutes, and reports is essential for this position.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field relevant to political affairs, international relations, or a related discipline. This includes students in their final year of a bachelor's program, as well as those enrolled in master's or doctoral programs. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the internship, emphasizing analytical and research skills pertinent to political monitoring and analysis.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, applicants should demonstrate relevant skills through academic projects or previous internships. Experience in drafting reports, conducting research, and analyzing political developments will be beneficial. The internship is particularly suited for candidates who have engaged in academic work related to international relations, political science, or similar fields, as this will enhance their ability to contribute effectively to the Division's objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week, taking place in-person at the United Nations premises in New York. The expected duration of the internship is three months, with the possibility of extension for an additional three months, depending on the needs of the Division. Candidates should be aware that they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The United Nations emphasizes gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Additionally, applicants who have previously served as interns in the UN Common System for a total of six months are not eligible for this internship. A complete online application, including a motivational statement and personal history profile, is required.