Partnerships and Financing for Development Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office (RCO) in Eswatini is part of the broader United Nations system, which aims to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and development globally. The RCO leads the UN Country Team (UNCT) in Eswatini, coordinating the efforts of various UN agencies to ensure effective and efficient operational activities in the country. The mission of the RCO is to enhance the UN's relevance and reliability as a partner to the government of Eswatini, particularly in the context of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RCO supports strategic planning, policy guidance, and joint advocacy efforts among UN agencies. The office is committed to fostering collaboration and partnerships that contribute to the socio-economic development of Eswatini. The RCO operates within the framework established by the UN General Assembly Resolution 72/279, which emphasizes the importance of a cohesive UN Development System in support of the 2030 Agenda.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships and Financing for Development Intern will play a crucial role in supporting the UN Resident Coordinator's Office in Eswatini. This internship is designed for individuals who are passionate about economic policy analysis and development work. The intern will assist in providing evidence-based economic policy analysis and advice to support the implementation of the SDGs in Eswatini. The position requires the intern to engage with various stakeholders, conduct research, and analyze data to inform partnership strategies. The intern will work under the supervision of the Partnerships and Financing for Development Officer and will gain valuable experience in multilateral development work, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning processes. This internship is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting while contributing to meaningful development initiatives in Eswatini.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the mapping and analysis of strategic stakeholders relevant to the UN's work in Eswatini.
• Enhancing the UNRCO's capacity to identify and engage with new and existing partners.
• Conducting research and analysis to inform partnership strategies and initiatives.
• Assisting in the coordination of efforts across UN agencies and with external stakeholders to foster collaboration.
• Contributing to the preparation of reports and presentations that summarize findings and recommendations.
• Participating in meetings and discussions with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback.
• Supporting the monitoring and evaluation of partnership initiatives and their impact on development outcomes.
• Engaging in capacity-building activities to strengthen the UNRCO's partnerships and financing strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience; however, they must have a field of study closely related to the internship. Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. Preferred fields of study include economics, economic policy and planning, public policy, or any closely related field. Candidates should also demonstrate knowledge of Eswatini's social and economic development context, possess strong analytical skills, and have proficiency in using econometric tools and statistical analysis software. Excellent writing and presentation skills are essential, along with a demonstrated interest in coordination and volunteerism as mechanisms for sustainable development.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be pursuing or have completed a university degree (Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D.) in a relevant field such as economics, economic policy, public policy, or a closely related discipline. The internship is particularly suited for those in their final year of study or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of development and economic policy analysis.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This may include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to economic policy, development studies, or international relations. The internship is designed to provide practical experience and exposure to the workings of the UN and multilateral development efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language. Additionally, familiarity with Siswati would be desirable, as it reflects an understanding of the local context and enhances communication with stakeholders in Eswatini.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and will last for a duration of six months. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Eswatini may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the UN before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for payment.