Intern at the UN Youth Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. The UN's mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and human rights. The UN Youth Office was established on 8 September 2022, following the adoption of resolution 76/306 by the General Assembly, to focus specifically on youth affairs and to enhance youth participation in various frameworks related to development, peace, and security.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at the UN Youth Office is designed for individuals who are passionate about youth development and engagement. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The role involves supporting the UN's initiatives aimed at promoting youth rights and participation in decision-making processes. Interns will be expected to engage in various tasks that contribute to the office's mission, including research, analysis, and administrative support, all under the guidance of a designated supervisor. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a prestigious international organization while contributing to meaningful projects that impact youth globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a diverse set of responsibilities that may vary based on their background and the specific needs of the department. Key duties include:

• Assisting in tracking initiatives that enhance dialogue with government counterparts regarding youth issues.
• Supporting research and analysis efforts by gathering and synthesizing information from various sources, including reports from Member States, UN Country Teams, youth organizations, and academic institutions.
• Drafting background papers, analytical reports, and sections of studies related to youth affairs.
• Providing logistical and documentation support for consultative meetings, particularly those involving the diplomatic community, including preparing agendas, participant lists, and presentation materials.
• Performing additional tasks as required to support the office's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent), or (b) Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher). While professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should have a field of study related to youth affairs or similar areas. Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word and MS PowerPoint, is essential. Experience in youth engagement or related processes is considered an asset, as is familiarity with intergovernmental affairs.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or Ph.D. program in a relevant field. This educational background should ideally align with the responsibilities of the internship, particularly in areas related to youth development, international relations, or public policy.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should demonstrate relevant academic experience or involvement in youth-related initiatives. Experience in research, analysis, or administrative roles, particularly within international or governmental contexts, will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, is desirable and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. All costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to 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 UN emphasizes that it does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process.