Intern in Debt and Financial Analysis Unit

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. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve economic growth and sustainable development through research, policy analysis, and technical assistance.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in the Debt and Financial Analysis Unit (DFAU) of the Debt and Development Finance Branch (DDFB) within UNCTAD is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the field of debt and development finance. The intern will work closely with the Chief of the DMFAS Programme and other senior officers, contributing to the unit's core functions, which include conducting research, providing technical assistance, and preparing reports related to external debt sustainability and development finance issues. The intern will assist in various tasks such as writing assessment reports, drafting project proposals, monitoring debt management projects, and preparing capacity-building materials. This role is crucial for supporting the UN's efforts in addressing systemic issues related to developing countries' debt vulnerabilities and enhancing the global financial architecture from a developmental perspective. The internship is expected to last for six months and is offered on an in-person basis, requiring the intern to have a valid visa and cover all associated costs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of tasks that support the work of the Debt and Financial Analysis Unit. These tasks include:

• Assisting in writing assessment reports that evaluate debt management practices and sustainability issues.
• Drafting project proposals and budgets to secure funding for various initiatives.
• Monitoring the progress of ongoing debt management projects to ensure they meet their objectives.
• Preparing materials for capacity-building courses aimed at enhancing the skills of stakeholders in debt management.
• Supporting the use of IT tools and applications to streamline operational workflows and improve project management efficiency. Additionally, the intern is expected to adhere to all UN regulations and directives, respect confidentiality, and maintain impartiality throughout their internship.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the United Nations. They should be either 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). Interns should possess strong computer skills, particularly in standard software applications, and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations. They must also show a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter and have the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. A degree in economics, political science, development studies, or a related field is required, while no prior work experience is necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes a university degree in economics, political science, development studies, or a closely related field. Applicants must either be currently enrolled in a graduate program or have completed their studies at the undergraduate level. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of debt and development finance, as well as for contributing effectively to the unit's research and technical assistance efforts.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required to apply for this internship, applicants should have relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. The internship is primarily aimed at students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of international development and finance. The focus is on enhancing the educational experience of the interns rather than requiring prior work experience.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also required, given its status as another working language. Additionally, familiarity with any other official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an advantage, as it may enhance the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and resources within the UN system.

Additional Notes:
This internship is offered on a full-time basis for a duration of six months, and it is important to note that interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations. All costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses must be borne by the interns themselves. Additionally, interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. It is also crucial for applicants to understand that there is no expectation of employment with the UN following the completion of the internship, and they are not eligible to apply for professional positions within the UN for six months after their internship ends. The application process requires a complete online submission, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile, and only successful candidates will be contacted.