Intern - Business and Human Rights Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR works to ensure that all individuals can enjoy their rights and freedoms as outlined in international human rights law. The organization operates in numerous countries, engaging with various stakeholders to uphold human rights standards and provide support to governments and civil society. With a mission to empower people and assist those responsible for upholding rights, OHCHR plays a crucial role in the international human rights framework.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Business and Human Rights Section at OHCHR is designed to support the organization's mission of protecting human rights for all individuals. Interns will engage in a variety of tasks that contribute to the overall objectives of the section, which include researching and analyzing thematic and regional human rights issues. Interns will be expected to draft and summarize reports, prepare documentation for meetings, seminars, and workshops, and assist in various administrative tasks as needed. This role provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the workings of the United Nations and to contribute to meaningful human rights initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's daily responsibilities will vary based on the specific activities of the assigned work unit and the intern's qualifications. Key duties include: conducting research and analysis on a wide range of human rights issues; drafting and summarizing reports and background materials; preparing documentation for meetings, seminars, and workshops; servicing meetings by taking notes and drafting reports; and performing other related duties as requested by the supervisor. Interns may also support other units within OHCHR as necessary, providing a comprehensive learning experience in the field of human rights.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the United Nations Secretariat internship programme, applicants must be either a graduate or currently enrolled in a graduate school programme (Master's degree or equivalent) or in the final academic year of a first-level university degree programme (Bachelor's degree or equivalent). Preferred fields of study include law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or related disciplines. While no prior work experience is required, candidates should possess skills and knowledge that will benefit the United Nations during their internship. Familiarity with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights is considered desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, either being enrolled in or having completed a graduate programme (Master's degree or equivalent) or being in the final year of a Bachelor's degree programme. The focus should ideally be in areas such as law, political science, international relations, or social sciences, which align with the objectives of the internship.

Experience:
No prior work experience is necessary to apply for this internship. However, candidates should demonstrate relevant training, education, or coursework that would contribute positively to the work of the United Nations during their internship period. This is an entry-level position aimed at students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the field of human rights.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French or another United Nations language is considered desirable, as it may enhance the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of materials and stakeholders within the organization.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. All costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Additionally, interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not charged at any stage.