Internship Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which is a part of the United Nations. UNCTAD was established in 1964 and has a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries, with a significant presence in Africa through its Regional Office for Africa (ROA). UNCTAD aims to support developing nations in their efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth and development, particularly in the context of global trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The internship position at UNCTAD is designed to provide interns with practical experience in the field of international trade and development. Interns are expected to work full-time, either in-person or remotely, for a duration of three months, starting from November 5, 202

• The role involves supporting various functions within the organization, particularly in relation to the dissemination of research, organizing meetings, and assisting in project development. Interns will work under the supervision of the Chief of the Regional Office for Africa and will receive training and mentoring throughout their internship. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about the work of the United Nations and are eager to contribute to the organization's mission of promoting sustainable development and trade in developing countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the dissemination of UNCTAD's research, assisting in organizing briefings and meetings with member states and stakeholders, developing concept notes and project proposals, conducting analysis on topical issues related to UNCTAD's mandate, identifying relevant information and research documents, preparing briefing notes and workshop reports, summarizing conferences and meetings, and updating office databases. Additionally, interns are expected to observe all applicable rules and regulations of the UN, provide copies of materials prepared during the internship, respect the impartiality of the UN, and refrain from any conduct that could adversely reflect on the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent) or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). Interns should be computer literate in standard software applications and have a keen interest in the work of the United Nations. They must demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs. A degree in economics is specifically required for this position, and while professional work experience is not mandatory, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Good knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a student in the final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or having completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program. The degree must be in a relevant area, specifically economics, to align with the internship's focus. Applicants must provide proof of their educational status at the time of application and may need to submit an official certificate later in the process.

Experience:
While applicants are not required to have professional work experience, they should have a field of study that is closely related to the internship they are applying for. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of international trade and development. The ability to conduct desktop research and draft concept notes or project proposals is desirable, indicating that some familiarity with research and proposal writing is beneficial for candidates.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners within the UN system and in the regions where UNCTAD operates.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses must be covered by the intern. Interns are responsible for obtaining the necessary visa and work authorization if they are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is located. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.