Internship with the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in the Philippines is part of the broader United Nations system, which aims to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and development globally. The RCO leads the UN Country Team (UNCT) and represents the UN Secretary General in the Philippines. The office plays a crucial role in ensuring effective coordination and implementation of UN initiatives in the country, focusing on strategic planning, partnerships, policy and program advice, and advocacy. The RCO is committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and operates with a mission to support the Philippines in achieving its development priorities. The organization emphasizes collaboration, data-driven insights, and coordination mechanisms to foster sustainable development in the region. The RCO is part of a larger network of UN offices worldwide, working towards common goals and objectives.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position offers a unique opportunity for young professionals to gain first-hand work experience within a dynamic international team while supporting the sustainable development agenda in the Philippines. The selected intern will contribute to the work of the United Nations in the Philippines for a period of three to six months, providing technical support through economic and social research, policy analysis, and administrative assistance. The intern will engage in various tasks that will enhance their understanding of UN programming and multilateral engagement, while also contributing to the office's core functions. This role is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience, allowing the intern to develop skills in research, analysis, and coordination within the context of the UN's mission in the Philippines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the RCO's initiatives, including:

• Research and Policy Analysis: - Collecting and analyzing economic and social studies, papers, reports, and data relevant to the implementation of the Philippines 2024-2028 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) and broader development priorities. - Monitoring and summarizing recent economic and social trends, policy developments, and relevant news.
• Report Preparation: - Supporting the preparation of briefing notes, background notes, policy briefs, and other materials for internal and external use. - Assisting with drafting, editing, and formatting reports, presentations, and communication materials.
• Coordination and Administrative Support: - Supporting the organization of meetings, consultations, and events related to economic and social policy and programming. - Assisting in organizing hybrid and digitally enabled coordination meetings, workshops, and events related to the RCO’s initiatives. - Supporting the preparation and drafting of actionable documentation (minutes, summaries, and follow-up action points) from meetings. The intern will report to the RCO Head of Office through the RCO Partnership and Development Finance Officer and other team members as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
The internship is open to Filipino citizens only. Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Development Studies, Political Economy, Public Policy, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should possess strong analytical, research, and writing skills, familiarity with economic data sources and statistical tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS, or similar), and good knowledge of standard software applications (MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel). Experience or proficiency with innovative and digital tools to enhance data analysis is considered an asset. Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential, along with a demonstrated interest in development issues and the work of the United Nations. The ability to work in a multicultural environment and adapt to team dynamics is also important.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, which includes either being enrolled in or having completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or being enrolled in or having completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as Economics, Development Studies, Political Economy, Public Policy, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of economic and social policies and their implications for development.

Experience:
The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently enrolled in a relevant academic program or have recently completed their studies. While prior work experience is not explicitly required, candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and research skills, as well as a keen interest in development issues and the workings of the United Nations. The internship provides an opportunity for individuals to gain practical experience in a professional setting, making it suitable for those looking to start their careers in international development or related fields.

Languages:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Filipino are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the team and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is fluency in English and Filipino to ensure clear and effective collaboration.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time, unpaid opportunity, requiring interns to work Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., for a duration of two to six months. Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and costs and arrangements for 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 the Philippines may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization. The internship will begin on a mutually agreed-upon date, tentatively in January 202

• The intern will be based in Mandaluyong City, Philippines, and this is an in-person engagement. Remote work arrangements may be considered on an exceptional, day-by-day basis, depending on circumstances and the nature of tasks assigned. The Terms of Reference are subject to modifications based on the changing needs of the RCO Philippines and its projects, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in this role. Due to the high volume of applications received, only successful candidates will be contacted for further consideration.