Internship in Disaster Risk Reduction Section

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction division of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). ESCAP was established in 1947 and is one of the regional commissions of the United Nations. Its mission is to promote inclusive and sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region through regional cooperation and capacity building. ESCAP operates in multiple countries across Asia and the Pacific, working with governments and stakeholders to address socio-economic challenges and enhance disaster risk management.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to provide practical experience in the field of disaster risk reduction and management within the context of information and communications technology. Interns will be involved in various projects aimed at improving regional cooperation and enhancing the capacity of countries in the Asia-Pacific region to manage disaster risks effectively. The internship is full-time and can last from two to six months, depending on the needs of the division. Interns will work under the supervision of the Chief of the Disaster Risk Reduction Section and will be expected to contribute to the team's efforts in analyzing socio-economic impacts of disasters, organizing international conferences, and supporting various projects. This role is particularly suited for individuals who are passionate about disaster risk reduction and are looking to gain hands-on experience in a UN environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a range of responsibilities that may include: contributing to quantitative and qualitative analyses on the socio-economic impacts of disasters; assisting in the organization of international conferences and meetings; conducting research and compiling data relevant to disaster risk reduction; supporting the preparation of reports and presentations; and carrying out other ad hoc tasks as required by the Disaster Risk Reduction Section and the broader division. The specific duties will depend on the intern's background, assigned office, and the duration of the internship, with a focus on providing meaningful contributions to ongoing projects.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following qualifications: (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 degree or equivalent). No prior working experience is required to apply for this internship, making it an excellent opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain experience in the UN system.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong academic background in fields related to disaster risk reduction, information technology, social sciences, or other relevant disciplines. The internship is open to those who are currently enrolled in a graduate program or have recently completed their studies, ensuring that applicants possess the necessary theoretical knowledge to contribute effectively to the work of the division.

Experience:
This internship does not require any prior work experience, making it accessible to students and recent graduates. However, any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or internships related to disaster risk management, social sciences, or information technology will be considered an asset. The focus is on providing an opportunity for individuals to gain practical experience in a professional setting.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this internship, as it 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:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are expected to cover their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is free of charge.