Internship in Trade Policy and Facilitation Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) is a regional development arm of the United Nations for the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 1947, UN ESCAP aims to promote economic and social development through regional cooperation and integration. The organization works with 62 member states and 9 associate members, focusing on sustainable development, trade, investment, and innovation. UN ESCAP employs a diverse workforce of professionals and experts dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in the areas of trade and development.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in the Trade Policy and Facilitation Section (TPFS) of the Trade, Investment and Innovation Division at UN ESCAP is designed for candidates interested in gaining hands-on experience in trade policy-related work. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work alongside professional staff and experts, contributing to the organization's mission of providing evidence-based training and policy guidance to governments and stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region. Interns will engage in various activities, including conducting research and analysis, providing training, and delivering advisory services to member governments. The internship is available in both remote and onsite formats, allowing flexibility for candidates. Interns are expected to work full-time, dedicating five days a week (35 hours) to their responsibilities, which will vary based on their background and the needs of their supervisor. This program is particularly beneficial for those looking to enhance their academic and applied skills in a professional setting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a range of responsibilities that may include, but are not limited to: contributing to policy research on contemporary trade issues, including digital trade, e-commerce, and global value chains; conducting literature analysis and drafting background documents; supporting the preparation of presentations and training materials; assisting with data management tasks, including data collection and analysis; editing and formatting papers; and organizing online or onsite events such as seminars and meetings. Interns will also be involved in substantive, administrative, and logistical tasks related to these events, ensuring effective communication and dissemination of information.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria: possess an academic background in economics, particularly in international trade or development economics; have experience in econometrics, data management, or law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law; or demonstrate relevant skills in data analysis and programming. Candidates should also exhibit strong drafting skills in English and possess good interpersonal skills to work collaboratively in a diverse environment. A commitment to a six-month internship is advantageous, and candidates should highlight any relevant coursework or research experience in their applications.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level). A degree in Economics is preferred, but candidates from related fields may also be considered. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the internship, particularly in areas related to trade, economics, and data analysis.

Experience:
While work experience is not mandatory for applying to the United Nations Internship Programme, any relevant experience in international trade, development policies, or data management will be considered an asset. Candidates with practical experience in regulatory analysis or trade agreement analysis will have an advantage in the selection process. The internship is designed to provide valuable experience, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their skills and background will benefit the organization during their internship.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively engaging with diverse stakeholders and contributing to the organization's objectives.

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. The internship program is flexible, allowing for both remote and onsite participation, depending on the candidate's circumstances and the organization's needs. Candidates should ensure they provide a complete online application, including a cover letter and personal history profile, detailing their qualifications and relevant experiences.