Internship in Human Rights

Internship in Human Rights

United Nations Secretariat

December 15, 2025January 17, 2026New YorkUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as human rights, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development. The UN operates in various countries around the world, with a significant presence in New York City, where its headquarters is located. The organization employs thousands of staff members and collaborates with numerous non-governmental organizations and civil society groups to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to support the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children (SRSG-VAC). The intern will play a crucial role in assisting the SRSG in her mission to prevent and eliminate violence against children globally. This includes mobilizing political support, promoting behavioral change, and ensuring the implementation of international conventions related to children's rights. The intern will engage in various tasks that contribute to the overall objectives of the SRSG, including research, administrative support, and event organization. The position offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the workings of the United Nations and to contribute to meaningful initiatives aimed at protecting children's rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of tasks, including: monitoring developments related to violence against children; assisting with administrative tasks for the Office of the SRSG-VAC; organizing conferences, events, and meetings; taking notes and summarizing discussions from meetings; conducting research and updating country profiles; supporting child participation initiatives; accompanying team members to meetings with UN delegates; preparing materials for the 15th Anniversary of the Mandate; and performing any other functions as requested by the supervisor. These responsibilities will provide the intern with hands-on experience in international advocacy and human rights work.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). No prior work experience is required, but relevant training, education, or skills that can benefit the United Nations during the internship are essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a commitment to human rights and child protection issues.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong academic background in fields related to human rights, international relations, social sciences, or a related discipline. Enrollment in a graduate program or completion of a bachelor's degree is necessary for eligibility. The educational background should reflect a focus on issues pertinent to children's rights and violence prevention.

Experience:
While no prior work experience is required for this internship, candidates should possess relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include experience in research, advocacy, or community engagement related to children's rights or human rights more broadly.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Additionally, proficiency in at least one other UN language (such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is required. Knowledge of other official UN languages is considered a strong asset and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last between 3 to 6 months, with a desired start date in February 202
  • The position can be undertaken in person in New York City or remotely, with options for full-time or part-time engagement. Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. For non-U.S. citizens, obtaining a G4 visa is mandatory, and successful candidates must ensure they have the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.
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