Intern, Population and Development

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. With a diverse workforce, UNFPA values gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, and actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Intern for Population and Development at UNFPA will work under the direct supervision of the Demographic Analysis and Planning Analyst. The intern's primary responsibilities will include supporting the country office in conducting analyses of social, cultural, and religious norms, as well as social and political scanning in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The intern will engage in a structured work plan that outlines specific achievements and learning opportunities throughout the internship duration, which is expected to last between 4 to 6 months. The role is designed to enhance the intern's skills and capacity in areas related to UNFPA's mandate, particularly in integrating Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) principles within the Islamic context. The intern will also participate in meetings with various stakeholders, including BARMM ministries and community groups, to gain insights into SRHR issues in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting social, economic, and political situational analyses within BARMM to inform strategic planning; assisting in the integration of SRHR principles within the Islamic context into UNFPA's programs; supporting the establishment of South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) partnerships, particularly with Egypt; enhancing the capacity of Muslim religious leaders and scholars in BARMM on Shariah laws and human rights; facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity building for BARMM government bodies; assisting in the adaptation and implementation of successful Egyptian models for addressing child marriage and improving SRHR service delivery; contributing to the development of policy briefs on SRHR topics; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following qualifications: be currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from an undergraduate or postgraduate degree program in political science, social science, law, or a related field; possess some experience working with development agencies, including volunteer work; demonstrate fluency in English, with fluency in Arabic considered an asset; exhibit strong analytical and writing skills; possess good communication and coordination skills; and show initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work harmoniously with diverse staff members.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in or recent graduation from a degree program in political science, social science, law, or any related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of population and development issues, particularly in the context of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some experience working with development agencies, which can include internships, volunteer work, or other relevant experiences. This experience is crucial for understanding the operational dynamics of development work and the specific challenges faced in the context of population and development.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNFPA. Additionally, fluency in Arabic is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication and understanding in the context of the Islamic framework of the internship's focus area.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based in Mandaluyong City, Philippines, and is expected to last between 4 to 6 months. Interns will not receive a salary or remuneration from UNFPA; however, they will receive a stipend to help cover basic daily expenses if they are not financially supported by an institution. Interns are required to have medical insurance for the duration of their internship, and proof of insurance must be submitted before the internship begins. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds.