Information and Evidence Management Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key component of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to strengthen international human rights mechanisms, enhance equality, combat discrimination, and ensure accountability and the rule of law. The organization plays a crucial role in integrating human rights into development and economic policies, widening democratic spaces, and providing early warning and protection in situations of conflict and violence. The OHCHR operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the promotion of human rights for all individuals, regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The Information and Evidence Management Intern position is designed for individuals who are keen to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and digital evidence management. The intern will be based in the Information System and Digital Support Section (ISDSS) of the Human Rights Inquiries Branch (HRIB) in Geneva, Switzerland. This role involves supporting various projects related to digital evidence handling and online open-source investigations. The intern will work under the guidance of the Head of the Branch and collaborate with the Information System and Digital Support Section to assist in the operationalization of human rights investigations. The internship is unpaid and full-time, providing a unique opportunity for students from diverse academic backgrounds to engage with the work of the United Nations and contribute to its mission of protecting human rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will have a range of responsibilities aimed at supporting the OHCHR's mission. These include assisting with coordination activities related to digital data and evidence collection, processing, analysis, review, preservation, and open-source investigation support for human rights investigations. Specific duties may include conducting substantive research and analysis of technology trends and applications related to digital data handling, developing online training materials and training modules, providing expert support to commissions of inquiry and fact-finding missions, facilitating the implementation of modern investigative tools, ensuring the application of digital forensic principles, and performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must be either a graduate or currently enrolled in a graduate school program (Master's degree or equivalent) or in the final academic year of a first-level university degree program (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in fields such as law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related area. While professional work experience is not required, applicants should demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and possess the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, either being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree program. The preferred fields of study include law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the role of the United Nations in addressing them.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship. However, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in human rights and the workings of the United Nations. The internship is designed to provide practical experience and exposure to the UN's operations, making it suitable for students or recent graduates looking to enhance their understanding of international human rights mechanisms.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, would be considered an advantage, enhancing the intern's ability to communicate effectively within the organization and with diverse stakeholders.

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 Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.