Internship in Disaster Risk Reduction

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 has been operational since its establishment in 197

• The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in over 100 countries, focusing on various environmental issues, including climate change, sustainable development, and disaster risk reduction. UNEP’s Disasters and Conflicts Branch specifically addresses the environmental impacts of conflicts and disasters, working with international and national partners to strengthen environmental management capacities in developing countries and those with economies in transition. More information can be found at www.unep.org/disastersandconflicts.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within UNEP’s Disasters and Conflicts Branch is designed for individuals who are passionate about environmental issues and disaster risk reduction. The intern will support UNEP’s programmatic, communications, and outreach activities related to the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) portfolio and assist the Partnership for Environment and Disaster Risk Reduction (PEDRR) Secretariat. The role involves engaging with various stakeholders, including governmental institutions, communities, and civil society, to promote sustainable management of natural resources in areas affected by conflict and disaster. The intern will also contribute to the development and implementation of Ecosystem-based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR) initiatives, which are crucial for enhancing disaster and climate resilience. This position is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35-40 hours per week, providing a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a global organization focused on environmental sustainability and disaster risk management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the day-to-day management and operations of the PEDRR Secretariat. Key responsibilities include:

• Updating and maintaining documentation related to PEDRR and Eco-DRR projects in electronic filing systems;
• Monitoring and maintaining the PEDRR Network database and content management systems;
• Supporting the implementation of PEDRR’s communication strategy, particularly through social media and newsletters;
• Developing and distributing PEDRR’s weekly newsletter focused on Eco-DRR issues;
• Assisting in the maintenance of knowledge management platforms;
• Creating content for PEDRR’s social media channels;
• Contributing ideas to enhance audience engagement;
• Supporting the development and maintenance of the PEDRR website;
• Assisting in the creation of programmatic content for the DRR Unit; 1
• Organizing events such as webinars and conferences; 1
• Creating communication products like presentations and flyers; 1
• Supporting data collection and analysis to identify trends and insights; 1
• Performing any other research and communication tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree (or be within one year of graduation) or be currently enrolled in a Master’s Programme or in the final year of an undergraduate degree. A background in communications, environmental sciences, environmental policy, disaster management, climate change studies, informational graphics, graphic design, or environment-related advocacy is essential. While professional work experience is not required, applicants must demonstrate a strong academic background related to the internship.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this internship include being a student in the final year of a bachelor’s degree, or having completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme. Candidates must provide proof of their academic status, such as an official certificate, at a later stage of the application process.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include internships, volunteer work, or projects related to environmental issues, disaster risk reduction, or communications.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate in a diverse international environment.

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 Kenya 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.