Political Affairs Intern

Political Affairs Intern

United Nations Secretariat

November 13, 2025December 10, 2025New YorkUnited States
United Nations Secretariat About
United Nations Secretariat is the executive arm and one of the major organs of the United Nations. It has an keyrole in agenda setting, decision making and decision implementaion. The Secretary-General is the head of the secretariat.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as human rights, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development. The UN operates in various sectors, including peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, and development, with a workforce of over 44,000 employees worldwide. The organization is headquartered in New York City, USA, and has offices in various countries around the globe, working towards its goals through various specialized agencies and programs.

Job Overview:
The Political intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern will be part of the Office of the Special Coordinator on Improving the United Nations Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OSCSEA). This role is designed for individuals who are passionate about contributing to the UN's efforts in addressing sexual exploitation and abuse within peacekeeping and humanitarian contexts. The intern will engage in research, advocacy, and communication strategies aimed at enhancing the UN's response to these critical issues. The internship is expected to last between four to six months, with the possibility of remote work depending on operational requirements. Interns will work under the supervision of a staff member, dedicating 20 to 35 hours per week, and will gain valuable experience in international relations and organizational operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting research on the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, which includes data collection and analysis. They will support the implementation of advocacy and communication strategies, utilizing web-based tools to enhance outreach efforts. General office support will also be part of the role, which includes drafting correspondence and maintaining communication materials. The intern may assist in legal and policy research related to UN accountability frameworks and will undertake additional responsibilities as required by the office. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to significant initiatives within the UN and develop skills in research, communication, and policy analysis.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, candidates must either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). While no prior work experience is required, candidates should possess skills and knowledge that will benefit the UN during their internship. Being computer literate in standard software applications is essential, and a demonstrated interest in the UN's work and commitment to its ideals is crucial.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, either through enrollment in a graduate program or completion of a bachelor's degree. This educational foundation should provide the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to the UN's mission and objectives during the internship.

Experience:
No prior working experience is necessary to apply for this internship. However, candidates should have relevant training, education, or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This opportunity is particularly suited for individuals looking to gain practical experience in international relations and organizational dynamics within a global context.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and familiarity with another UN language is considered an advantage. This linguistic capability will facilitate effective communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and can be either part-time or full-time, depending on the intern's status. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. For non-U.S. citizens, obtaining a G4 visa is mandatory to undertake the internship in the United States. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants can apply without financial burden.
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