Sustainable Development Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Environment and Development Division, specifically within the Sustainable Urban Development Section 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. The organization operates in multiple countries across Asia and the Pacific, working with member states and stakeholders to address various developmental challenges. The division employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to advancing sustainable urban development and fostering regional cooperation.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Development intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position is designed for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in sustainable urban development within the framework of the United Nations. Interns will be engaged in a full-time, in-person capacity for a minimum of four months, with a preference for six months. The role involves working closely with experienced staff members and contributing to various projects aimed at enhancing sustainable urban development across the Asia-Pacific region. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in intergovernmental processes, assist in technical assistance initiatives, and support capacity development efforts. The internship provides a platform for interns to develop their skills in research, project implementation, and stakeholder engagement while contributing to meaningful work that impacts urban development policies and practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a range of responsibilities that will vary based on their background and the specific office to which they are assigned. Key duties include:

• Supporting the organization and conduct of meetings relevant to the Sustainable Urban Development Section's work, which includes drafting documents and communication materials, preparing for intergovernmental meetings, and following up on activities (40% of time).
• Assisting with tasks related to the implementation of programs and projects, such as SDG Localization, urban climate action, clean air initiatives, smart cities, and sustainable urban development (30% of time).
• Conducting research and identifying case studies on urban development policies and programs, analyzing their impact on inclusive and sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region (20% of time).
• Participating in daily operational tasks, including responding to information requests, supporting the development of presentations, and updating web pages related to the section's work (10% of time).

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) in fields related to international development, sustainable development, urban planning, policy analysis, environmental management, social science, or similar areas; or (b) Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent) in related fields. Additionally, candidates should possess special skills such as proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite beyond basic applications, video-editing skills, and graphic design or illustration capabilities relevant to urban contexts.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong educational background in fields pertinent to sustainable development and urban planning. This includes either a graduate degree or a bachelor's degree in areas such as international development, urban development, environmental management, or related disciplines. The educational qualifications should align with the responsibilities of the internship, ensuring that interns can effectively contribute to the projects and initiatives of the Sustainable Urban Development Section.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory for this internship, any relevant experience in sustainable development, urban planning, or related fields will be considered an asset. Interns should demonstrate a keen interest in urban development issues and a willingness to learn and engage with various stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region. This internship is particularly suited for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in a UN environment and develop their professional skills in a global context.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language. Additionally, familiarity with other languages spoken in the Asia-Pacific region is considered an asset, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to regional initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.