Political Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) is a key component of the United Nations system, dedicated to promoting disarmament and related security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues. Established to advise and assist the Secretary-General in fulfilling his responsibilities under the UN Charter, UNODA implements mandates from the General Assembly, Security Council, and other UN organs. The organization plays a crucial role in fostering international peace and security through disarmament initiatives and outreach efforts. UNODA operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders to advance its mission and objectives.

Job Overview:
The Political intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position at UNODA is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the field of disarmament and international security. This internship is a full-time, in-person role based in New York City, with a maximum duration of six months. Interns will work under the supervision of a primary supervisor and will be involved in a variety of tasks that contribute to the office's mission. The internship is unpaid, and while it is primarily full-time, there may be flexibility for part-time, remote, or hybrid arrangements based on the intern's needs and the supervisor's approval. Interns will engage in drafting official documents, conducting research, assisting in meetings and conferences, and developing media content for various platforms. This role provides a unique opportunity to understand the workings of the United Nations and contribute to significant disarmament efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns at UNODA will undertake a range of responsibilities that may include, but are not limited to: assisting in the drafting and preparation of official documents, summaries, talking points, speeches, and web content; conducting document, media, and internet research; providing support during conferences and meetings; helping to develop media products for web and social networking platforms; and contributing to the management and development of disarmament stories through information posted on the Office's website and social media channels. Interns are expected to adhere to the established official working hours, which include five days of work per week with a one-hour lunch break. Daily responsibilities will vary based on the intern's background and the specific branch within UNODA to which they are assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants for the United Nations Internship Programme must meet one of the following qualifications at the time of application: (1) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (2) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent). This ensures that interns possess the necessary academic background to contribute effectively to the organization's work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in or completion of a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree program. This requirement is designed to attract candidates who have a solid understanding of international relations, political science, or related fields, enabling them to engage meaningfully with the tasks and responsibilities of the internship.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates are expected to have a foundational understanding of political affairs, disarmament, or international relations. This internship is particularly suited for individuals who are eager to learn and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic international environment. Previous internships or volunteer work in related fields may be advantageous but are not strictly required.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States 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. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process remains accessible to all candidates.