Internship in Leadership Support Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Secretariat, established in 1945, is the principal administrative organ of the United Nations. It is responsible for carrying out the day-to-day work of the UN, including supporting international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, promoting sustainable development, and upholding human rights. The organization employs thousands of staff members across various countries and operates in numerous locations worldwide, focusing on diverse global issues. The mission of the UN is to maintain international peace and security, promote sustainable development, and foster friendly relations among nations. The UN is committed to gender balance and geographical diversity within its workforce, actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The internship in the Leadership Support Section (LSS) is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience for individuals interested in the workings of the United Nations, particularly in the areas of political affairs and peace operations. The intern will work under the supervision of a Programme Officer and will be involved in various tasks that support the identification and appointment of senior leadership within UN Field Missions. This role is crucial as it contributes to the overall mission of the UN to empower leaders who can effectively address global challenges and promote peace and stability. The internship is expected to last for three months, with the possibility of extension to six months, and is primarily focused on in-person engagement, although hybrid or remote arrangements may be considered based on the intern's needs. The intern will gain valuable insights into the recruitment processes, database management, and outreach initiatives that are essential for the UN's leadership agenda.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including conducting online research to update and maintain a database of potential candidates for senior leadership positions within the UN. This involves creating new profiles and performing due diligence checks to ensure the accuracy and confidentiality of the information. The intern will also assist in preparing mission and country profiles, which are vital for high-level recruitment processes. Additionally, the intern will support outreach initiatives by preparing meeting documents and promotional materials, which may require basic graphic design skills using tools like Canva and Adobe products. Monitoring global leadership news and providing weekly reports will also be part of the intern's responsibilities, along with collecting data on leadership trends and preparing internal progress reports using software such as Excel and PowerPoint. The intern may also attend webinars and information sessions, producing summaries as needed, and provide support for other ongoing projects within the section.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific criteria to be eligible for this internship. They should either be 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 degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in the work of the United Nations, particularly in peace and security, and show a commitment to the principles of the UN Charter. Additionally, the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures is essential, as is proficiency in standard software applications such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a student in the final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or having completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program. This educational foundation is crucial as it ensures that the intern possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the work of the Leadership Support Section. Candidates must also provide proof of their academic status, such as an official certificate, during the application process.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a prerequisite 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 academic projects related to political science, international relations, or peace studies. The focus is on candidates who can demonstrate a strong understanding of the UN's mission and the specific challenges faced in the areas of political affairs and peace operations.

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 an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages is highly valued in the UN environment, where diverse linguistic skills can facilitate better collaboration and understanding among international teams.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and candidates should be aware that they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States will need to obtain a G-4 visa or ensure they have the appropriate visa and work authorization to undertake the internship. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Additionally, applicants must submit a complete online application, including a motivational statement that outlines their qualifications, interest in the internship, and desired start date. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.