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Job Description
Job Posting Organization: The internship is located within the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), which is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in the region. ESCWA focuses on various issues including gender equality, social development, poverty reduction, and migration. The organization aims to foster inclusive development and justice in the region, working with member states and stakeholders to implement policies that enhance the well-being of the population. ESCWA operates in multiple countries across the Western Asia region, engaging in research, policy analysis, and capacity-building initiatives.
Job Overview: The internship position is designed to provide support to the ESCWA Cluster on 'Gender Justice, Population and Inclusive Development'. The intern will engage in substantive research activities that contribute to the cluster's focus on gender equality and justice, social development, and related issues. The intern will be expected to assist in various tasks such as conducting literature reviews, preparing written outputs, drafting presentations, and organizing meetings and workshops. This role is crucial for those looking to gain experience in international development and the workings of the United Nations, particularly in areas related to gender and social issues. The internship is a full-time commitment, with a minimum duration of two months and a maximum of six months, allowing interns to immerse themselves in the work of ESCWA and contribute meaningfully to its objectives.
Duties and Responsibilities: The intern will be responsible for a range of duties including:
Providing substantive research support on topics relevant to the cluster's work, which involves reviewing existing literature, assisting in formulating research questions, and conducting desk research.
Assisting in the preparation and review of written outputs published by ESCWA, such as background papers, technical papers, and sections of reports and studies.
Drafting inputs for presentations and research papers to support the cluster's initiatives.
Assisting in organizing expert group meetings, conferences, or workshops that relate to the cluster's focus areas.
Preparing minutes of meetings to ensure accurate records of discussions and decisions.
Performing other duties as requested by supervisors, which may vary based on the needs of the cluster and ongoing projects.
Required Qualifications: To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet several conditions:
They must be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent), or have graduated with a university degree.
Applicants should be proficient in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, showing a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.
They must possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, demonstrating tolerance and understanding of differing opinions.
Educational Background: The educational background required for this internship includes being enrolled in or having completed a university degree program. This can be at the graduate level or the final year of an undergraduate program. The focus of the studies should ideally relate to social sciences, international relations, gender studies, or a related field that aligns with the work of ESCWA.
Experience: No previous work experience is required for this internship position. This makes it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the field of international development and the workings of the United Nations.
Languages: Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, but not mandatory for this role.
Additional Notes: Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns must also provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship and submit a medical certificate of good health prior to starting. The internship allows for flexible working arrangements, contingent upon written agreement by the receiving entity, but interns must commit to at least two months of full-time work and complete their internship within six months. 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.
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