Internship in External Relations, Protocol and International Cooperation Section

Job Posting Organization:
The Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) is an international organization established to set up the global verification system under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The CTBT aims to ban all nuclear weapon test explosions and any other nuclear explosions. The organization is headquartered in Vienna, Austria, and operates a global verification regime that includes a network of 337 monitoring stations, a communications system, an international data center, and provisions for on-site inspections to ensure compliance with the treaty. The CTBTO is committed to promoting disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and works with various stakeholders to achieve these goals.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the External Relations, Protocol, and International Cooperation Section of the CTBTO is designed for university students and recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of international relations, particularly in relation to disarmament and non-proliferation. Interns will engage in research and assist in various tasks that support the Section's mission to promote the entry into force and universalization of the CTBT. This role provides an opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals in the field, contributing to significant projects and initiatives that align with the CTBTO's objectives. Interns will be involved in preparing background documents for meetings, writing reports, and assisting in outreach activities, thereby gaining valuable insights into the workings of an international organization and the complexities of international treaties.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will work under the supervision of the Chief of the External Relations, Protocol and International Cooperation Section and will be responsible for a variety of tasks. These include conducting research to support the promotion of the CTBT, analyzing political developments related to the treaty, and preparing reports and background documents for meetings. Interns will also assist in organizing outreach activities such as workshops and seminars, perform protocol functions, and contribute to the maintenance of the e-learning platform. Additionally, interns may be assigned other duties as required by the Section, providing a comprehensive learning experience in the field of international relations and protocol.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates applying for the internship must be between 18 and 35 years of age. They should have completed at least two years of full-time study in international relations or a related field. Applications are also accepted from individuals who have completed their degree within the last two years, whether it be a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. Strong analytical and research skills are essential, along with a solid understanding of disarmament and non-proliferation concepts. Experience in drafting speeches, briefing notes, and talking points is highly desirable, indicating a need for candidates who can communicate effectively and contribute to the Section's objectives.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes at least two years of full-time study in a relevant field such as international relations, political science, or a related discipline. Candidates who have recently completed their degrees are also eligible to apply, provided they meet the age criteria. The CTBTO values diverse academic backgrounds, and candidates from various fields may bring unique perspectives to the internship.

Experience:
While prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with experience in research, writing, or involvement in international relations will be at an advantage. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, so a willingness to learn and adapt is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, as well as the capacity to handle multiple tasks effectively.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are essential for this position, as it is the primary working language of the CTBTO. Knowledge of other official languages of the CTBTO, including Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application, particularly in roles that require interaction with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
Internship opportunities at the CTBTO are available throughout the year, and assignments are filled based on the organization's needs. It is important to note that interns are not considered staff members or officials of the Commission. Non-Austrian citizens must obtain the necessary visas and comply with local laws regarding police registration. All applications must be submitted through the CTBTO e-Recruitment system, and incomplete applications will not be considered. The CTBTO reserves the right to modify job descriptions or contract terms as necessary, and candidates under serious consideration will undergo a reference-checking process.