Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and operates in various countries worldwide, focusing on environmental issues and sustainable development. The organization is committed to fostering partnerships and collaboration among nations to address pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNEP's Brussels Office offers a unique opportunity for individuals to gain practical experience in the field of environmental policy and partnership building. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Brussels Office, contributing to the monitoring of EU environmental and climate policies, supporting policy dialogues, and engaging with various EU institutions. This role is designed for students or recent graduates who are passionate about environmental issues and wish to understand the workings of the United Nations and its relationship with the European Union. The intern will also participate in conferences and events, providing valuable insights and reports on relevant sessions of the European Parliament and other EU institutions. This position is expected to start on 10 March 2026 and will last for a duration of six months, allowing the intern to immerse themselves in the dynamic environment of international governance and environmental advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that contribute to UNEP's mission in Brussels. Key duties include:

• Policy Monitoring: Conducting analysis on selected EU environmental and climate policies, strategies, and legislation. Keeping abreast of developments in EU institutions and reporting back on relevant sessions of the European Parliament, particularly those related to environmental issues.
• Partnership Building: Assisting in the preparation of briefings and memos to support partnership efforts, identifying and analyzing financial instruments of the EU, and monitoring calls for proposals. The intern will also provide assistance during meetings by taking notes and maintaining records.
• Communication: Collaborating on the office newsletter and supporting UNEP events and campaigns in Brussels, such as UN Day and World Environment Day. The intern will also be involved in proofreading and editing documents as needed. Overall, the intern will play a crucial role in supporting UNEP's initiatives and enhancing its engagement with EU institutions.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience; however, they must have a field of study closely related to the internship. Preferred areas of study include international relations, European studies, environmental science, or other relevant disciplines. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications and possess suitable IT knowledge for developing visual products. Strong writing skills and a demonstrated interest in environmental issues, the United Nations, and international governance are essential. Additionally, applicants should have a proven knowledge of the European Union's institutions and policies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's, or Ph.D. program, or have completed one of these programs. This educational requirement ensures that interns have a solid foundation in relevant fields of study that align with UNEP's mission and the responsibilities of the internship.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should possess relevant academic knowledge and skills that align with the duties of the position. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are eager to learn and contribute to UNEP's work in environmental policy and partnership building.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is the working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French and/or Dutch is desirable, as these languages are also relevant in the context of the European Union. Proficiency in both spoken and written English is essential for effective communication during the internship.

Additional Notes:
Interns at UNEP are not financially remunerated, and 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 Belgium may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.