Political Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the United Nations, an international organization founded in 1945, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries. The UN has 193 member states and operates in various fields including humanitarian aid, human rights, and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law. The organization employs thousands of staff members globally, working in diverse areas to address global challenges and improve the lives of people around the world.

Job Overview:
The Political intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern will work under the supervision of a staff member in the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict. This role is crucial in supporting the UN's mandate to protect children affected by armed conflict. The intern will engage in various research activities, monitor discussions related to children and armed conflict, and assist in preparing reports and policy documents. The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week, starting in November 2025 for a duration of six months. The intern will gain valuable experience in international relations and the workings of the United Nations, while contributing to meaningful initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting research and reference searches on issues related to the children and armed conflict mandate. This includes monitoring and reporting on discussions and initiatives from the EU and Human Rights Council that are relevant to the mandate. The intern will attend conferences and meetings, taking notes and assisting in the organization of these events. Additionally, the intern will help prepare various materials such as reports, concept papers, policy documents, and talking points. Other duties may be assigned as necessary, providing a comprehensive experience in political affairs and international advocacy.

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 degree or equivalent). Candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations. A personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter is essential, along with the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in or have completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. A field of study closely related to the internship is required, ensuring that the intern has relevant academic knowledge to contribute effectively to the office's work.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not 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 political affairs, international relations, or humanitarian issues.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Spanish is considered desirable, providing an additional asset for communication within the UN framework and with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The internship lasts for six months, and interns may be offered flexible working arrangements if agreed upon by the supervising entity. Interns do not have the right to transfer to another entity within the UN. All applicants must submit a completed online application, including a Cover Note and Candidate Profile, detailing their qualifications and interest in the internship. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.