Internship in Trade Policy and Facilitation Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is a regional development arm of the United Nations Secretariat, established to promote inclusive economic, social, and environmental development in the Asia-Pacific region. ESCAP supports its member states through analytical, normative, and technical cooperation work, addressing the development priorities and changing needs of the region. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, engaging in various initiatives to foster regional cooperation and integration.

Job Overview:
The internship is situated within the Trade Policy and Facilitation Section (TPFS) of the Trade, Investment and Innovation Division (TIID) at ESCAP. This dynamic team is engaged in a wide array of activities aimed at enhancing trade policies and facilitating trade in the Asia-Pacific region. Interns will be expected to contribute to various projects, including conducting background research, literature reviews, and drafting inputs for ESCAP publications related to trade and sustainable development. The internship is designed to provide interns with invaluable academic and applied skills, allowing them to work closely with experienced professionals in the field. Interns will have the opportunity to engage in research topics of interest and may even publish joint working papers and policy briefs under the guidance of their supervisors. The internship is full-time, requiring a commitment of five days per week (35 hours), and can be undertaken either remotely or onsite, depending on the intern's preference and circumstances.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be involved in a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting background research and literature reviews; drafting contributions to ESCAP publications on trade policies and related issues; supporting the Asia-Pacific Research and Training Network (ARTNeT) and the UN Network of Experts for Paperless Trade and Transport in Asia and the Pacific (UNNExT); monitoring and evaluating regional trade agreements; maintaining the APTIAD database; analyzing data on trade flows, tariffs, and non-tariff measures; providing logistical support for training events, conferences, and meetings; and assisting with the dissemination of research findings through various channels such as social media and websites. Interns are encouraged to engage in research topics that align with their interests and those of their supervisors, contributing to the overall objectives of the division.

Required Qualifications:
Ideal candidates should possess backgrounds in economics, international trade, public policy, data science, or related fields. Demonstrated knowledge of AI/ML applications and their implications is highly valued. Candidates should exhibit strong analytical skills, the ability to critically evaluate AI implementation in operational and regulatory contexts, and effective communication skills, both written and oral. Teamwork and client orientation are also essential competencies, as interns will be working collaboratively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds to achieve organizational goals. Planning and organizing skills are necessary to develop clear goals and prioritize activities effectively.

Educational Background:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). A degree in Economics is preferred, but candidates from related fields may also be considered. No prior work experience is required, but relevant training, education, or skills that can benefit the United Nations during the internship are encouraged.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. However, candidates with relevant academic backgrounds or involvement in research projects related to trade, economics, or public policy may have an advantage in the selection process. The internship is designed to provide practical experience and exposure to the workings of the United Nations, allowing interns to develop their skills and knowledge in a professional setting.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Strong communication skills are essential for drafting reports and engaging with colleagues and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The 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 country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for candidates to specify their preferred start and end dates in their cover letter to expedite the internship process. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants are advised to be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.