Documentary Information Trainee

Job Posting Organization:
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established in 1874, with its headquarters located in Bern, Switzerland. The UPU serves as the primary forum for cooperation among postal sector players and is dedicated to ensuring a universal network of modern postal products and services. The organization aims to promote quality postal services that are accessible to all, fostering social, cultural, and commercial communication among peoples. The UPU operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders to enhance the postal sector's socioeconomic value.

Job Overview:
The Documentary Information Trainee position is designed to provide interns with valuable experience in communication within an international context. Under the supervision of the Lead Communication and Outreach Expert, the trainee will engage in a variety of tasks that contribute to the UPU's Communication & Outreach Programme. This role involves writing articles and features for the UPU's magazine and website, supporting the development of knowledge products, and creating content for social media platforms. The trainee will also gain insights into the workings of the UN system and the role of communication in advocacy on an international level. The internship is structured to enhance the intern's understanding of communications while allowing them to contribute meaningfully to the UPU's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Documentary Information Trainee include:

• Writing articles and features for the magazine Union Postale and the UPU website based on research and interviews.
• Supporting collaboration with UPU programmes to develop knowledge products such as factsheets, brochures, and blogs.
• Proposing and preparing content for the UPU's social media platforms including X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.
• Preparing multimedia content, which includes filming and editing video interviews, working with designers to create social media graphics, and taking and editing photographs.
• Providing logistical support for events organized by the UPU.
• Assisting with daily tasks such as media monitoring and updating communications contacts and media lists.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following qualifications at the time of application:

• A background in journalism or communication studies, or relevant work experience.
• Proficiency in interviewing techniques, analytical skills, and creativity.
• Experience with filming, video, and photo editing.
• Familiarity with social media platforms including X, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
• A sound understanding of major digital communication tools, platforms, and trends.

Educational Background:
The position is targeted at students and recent graduates, specifically those who have graduated within six months prior to the start of the internship. The educational background should ideally be in journalism, communication studies, or a related field that equips the candidate with the necessary skills for the role.

Experience:
While specific years of experience are not mandated, candidates should possess relevant experience in journalism or communication, which may include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects that demonstrate their capabilities in writing, media production, and digital communication.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is excellent reading, writing, and comprehension skills in English. Additionally, a working knowledge of French is required. Knowledge of other United Nations languages such as Arabic, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, or Chinese is considered an asset but is not essential for the role.

Additional Notes:
This internship is exclusively reserved for students and recent graduates, with a maximum graduation period of six months prior to the internship start date. The internship is remunerated according to UPU rules. Interns are responsible for their travel costs to Switzerland, visa arrangements, accommodation, and living expenses. Non-citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.