Policy and Data Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Resident Coordinator System is a vital component of the United Nations, responsible for overseeing operational activities for development across various countries. The UNRC acts as the representative of the UN Secretary-General and leads the UN Country Team (UNCT), ensuring that the development activities of the UN system are coordinated effectively. The UNRC Office for Mauritius and Seychelles operates with a multi-country (MCO) status, with its main office located in Mauritius, while also covering Seychelles. The organization focuses on strategic analysis, planning, and positioning of the UN Country Team, facilitating the implementation and monitoring of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), and providing policy guidance and advocacy to enhance UN coherence and improve the overall impact of UN programs in both countries. The UN RCO is currently engaged in implementing the UNSDCF for 2024-2028, which outlines the cooperation between the UN and the Government to achieve development priorities over the next five years. The organization is looking for an intern who is passionate about the UN development system and eager to contribute to its mission of enhancing coherence through policy research and analysis.

Job Overview:
The Policy and Data Internship offers a unique opportunity for individuals interested in the workings of the UN development system at the country level. The intern will be involved in supporting the policy and data-related activities of the UN Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) and the UN Country Team (UNCT). This role is particularly significant as the UN is currently implementing the UNSDCF 2024-2028, which governs the cooperation between the UN and the Government of Mauritius and Seychelles. The intern will gain insights into the functions and roles of various UN agencies, the programming process of the UN, and how the UN interacts with government counterparts. The internship will involve gathering and analyzing data, engaging in policy research, drafting policy briefs, and organizing key policy advocacy events that support regional and global campaigns. The intern will report directly to the Data Management Officer and the RCO Team Leader, providing a structured learning environment while contributing to meaningful projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the Policy and data-related activities of the RCO and UNCT. Key responsibilities include:

• Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering quantitative and qualitative data from diverse sources such as surveys, databases, and reports; ensuring data accuracy and consistency; utilizing software tools (like Excel, SPSS, or Python) for data analysis; and preparing visual presentations of data through charts, graphs, and dashboards.
• Policy Research and Support: Assisting in researching current policies, regulations, and laws relevant to the UNSDCF focus areas; comparing policies from different regions or sectors to provide recommendations; reviewing academic journals and government publications to inform policy development; and staying updated on new trends and regulatory changes.
• Report/Policy Brief Writing and Documentation: Writing research summaries, policy briefs, and internal reports to communicate findings; creating presentations to showcase policy recommendations and data insights; and condensing complex findings into clear content for decision-makers.
• Organizational Support: Assisting in organizing events or webinars related to policy discussions or data sharing.
• Continuous Learning and Development: Participating in training opportunities to enhance skills in policy analysis, data analytics, and research methodologies; and keeping abreast of new trends in data analysis and policy-making.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience, but they must have a field of study closely related to the internship. Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree (or equivalent), or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. It is essential for applicants to indicate which criteria they meet and provide proof with their application. Preferred fields of study include Public Policy, Public Administration, International Development Studies, International Relations, Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, Economics, or other relevant disciplines.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be in their final year of a bachelor's degree (or equivalent), enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. This educational requirement ensures that the intern possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and understanding relevant to the tasks they will undertake during the internship.

Experience:
While 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. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are eager to learn and contribute to the UN's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it is also a working language within the UN system. Proficiency in both languages will enhance the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and resources.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Mauritius may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.