Internship at the Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (OHRLLS)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (OHRLLS) is a part of the United Nations system. It focuses on the unique challenges faced by the least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. The office aims to promote sustainable development and enhance the international community's support for these vulnerable nations. Established to address the specific needs of these countries, OHRLLS works to ensure that their voices are heard in global discussions and that they receive the necessary assistance to overcome their challenges. The office operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and civil society, to foster partnerships and mobilize resources for development initiatives. The organization is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable development, advocating for the rights and needs of the populations in these countries, and facilitating their integration into the global economy.

Job Overview:
The internship at OHRLLS is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical experience in the field of international development and diplomacy. Interns will work closely with staff members and contribute to various projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the visibility and impact of the office's work. The internship is structured to be full-time, requiring interns to commit to 35 hours per week for a duration of six months. Interns will have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities, including content creation, social media management, and research, all of which are essential for promoting the office's mission and objectives. This position is particularly suited for individuals who are passionate about international development and eager to learn about the workings of a UN office. Interns will gain valuable insights into the operations of the United Nations and develop skills that are applicable in various professional contexts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns at OHRLLS will have a diverse set of responsibilities that may vary based on their background and the specific office to which they are assigned. Key duties include brainstorming innovative communication strategies to enhance the office's digital presence, monitoring trends in content creation, and advising colleagues on best practices for maintaining engaging communication channels. Interns will support the production of new content for the office's websites and assist in implementing social media activities that promote priority issues and major events. Daily tasks will also involve community management and maintenance of OHRLLS's global social platforms, as well as the production of social media assets, including graphics and videos. Interns will work under the supervision of experienced staff members, providing them with mentorship and guidance throughout their internship experience.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: they must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or they must be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, applicants should have a field of study that closely relates to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that interns can effectively contribute to the office's work and gain relevant experience in their area of interest.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or they must have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program. This educational requirement is essential to ensure that interns possess the necessary academic foundation to engage with the office's work effectively. The internship is particularly suited for individuals pursuing degrees in fields related to international relations, development studies, communications, or other relevant disciplines.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and relevant coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. The internship is designed for students and recent graduates, allowing them to gain practical experience and develop their skills in a professional setting. Interns will be expected to bring enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a proactive approach to their work.

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 an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages is beneficial in a multicultural environment like the UN, where communication with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization prior to accepting the internship offer. The internship is full-time, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week for a duration of six months, starting from the date of acceptance. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all qualified candidates.