Internship in the International Investment Agreements (IIAs) Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the global economy. It operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development through research, policy analysis, and technical assistance. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth, particularly through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical experience in the field of international investment agreements. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, for a duration of two months, starting tentatively in March 202

• The internship is unpaid and can be conducted either in-person in Geneva or remotely. Interns will be exposed to UNCTAD's three main pillars: research, intergovernmental meetings, and technical assistance to governments, primarily from developing countries. The role will involve assisting with data collection, research on investment policy trends, and supporting the organization of intergovernmental meetings and capacity-building activities. Interns will gain valuable insights into the workings of international organizations and the complexities of global trade and investment issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Research: Collecting data on bilateral investment treaties (BITs) and treaties with investment provisions (TIPs) for the G20 reporting and IIA database; gathering information on investor-State dispute settlement (ISDS) cases; conducting research on investment policy trends; updating the mapping of IIAs in accordance with UNCTAD’s Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development; and assisting in the preparation of IIA Issues Notes.
• Intergovernmental Meetings: Supporting the organization and preparation of UNCTAD’s intergovernmental processes, including expert meetings and conferences; managing invitations and confirmations; and assisting with speech writing and presentations.
• Technical Assistance: Conducting background research for technical assistance delivery; organizing capacity-building activities; proofreading and editing publications; updating the Investment Policy Hub website; and preparing inputs for reporting on program activities.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants are not required to have professional work experience, but they must be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field closely related to the internship. Candidates should demonstrate strong research and analytical skills, proficiency in data collection and management, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Familiarity with international trade and investment issues is an asset. Interns must also possess a valid visa if they are undertaking the internship in person.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have completed such a program within the last five years. Proof of enrollment or graduation must be provided with the application.

Experience:
While no prior professional experience is required, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework related to international trade, economics, law, or a similar field. This internship is particularly suited for individuals looking to gain practical experience in international organizations and policy-making processes.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication within the UNCTAD environment and with stakeholders from French-speaking countries.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses must be borne by the intern. Interns are not eligible for employment within the UN for six months following the completion of their internship. The application process requires a complete online submission, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Candidates will be assessed based on their profiles, and individual interviews may be conducted. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.