Internship at UNCITRAL Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific

Job Posting Organization:
The UNCITRAL Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific (UNCITRAL RCAP) is a unit within the International Trade Law Division (ITLD) of the Office of Legal Affairs at the United Nations in Vienna, Austria. Established to enhance international trade and development in the Asia-Pacific region, UNCITRAL RCAP promotes certainty in international commercial transactions through the dissemination of international trade norms and standards. The organization engages in technical assistance to States regarding the adoption and interpretation of UNCITRAL texts, coordinates with international and regional organizations on trade law reform, and serves as a communication channel between States and UNCITRAL. For more information, visit https://uncitral.un.org.

Job Overview:
The internship at UNCITRAL RCAP is designed to provide students with practical experience in the field of international trade law and the workings of the United Nations. Interns will work under the direct supervision of professional staff, contributing to various projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing trade law in the Asia-Pacific region. The internship is full-time and can be conducted either in person at the UNCITRAL RCAP in Incheon or remotely, depending on the circumstances surrounding visa issuance and travel restrictions. Interns are expected to engage actively in the work of the Centre, which includes attending meetings, assisting in the preparation of documents, and participating in workshops and seminars.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: assisting in the preparation of reports and documents related to international trade law; conducting research on trade law issues; participating in meetings and workshops; providing administrative support to professional staff; and engaging in outreach activities to promote UNCITRAL's work. Interns may also be involved in drafting materials for training sessions and seminars, as well as helping to coordinate events and liaise with stakeholders in the region. The internship provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the operations of the United Nations and the role of UNCITRAL in promoting international trade law.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have recently completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have recently completed the final year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should be computer literate in standard software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, with familiarity in Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, WordPress, HTML, and electronic document management being advantageous. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals are essential, along with the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in their final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. program, or have recently completed such programs. The field of study should be closely related to the type of internship being applied for, ensuring that candidates possess relevant academic knowledge and skills that align with the responsibilities of the internship.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not required for applicants to the UN Internship Programme, it is desirable that candidates have knowledge and skills related to the internship's focus area. Interns should be able to manage their time effectively and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines, especially in a fast-paced environment. Experience in research, writing, and working in multicultural settings will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of another United Nations official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. Additionally, familiarity with regional languages like Japanese or Korean would also be beneficial, enhancing communication and understanding within the diverse context of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of five days per week (40 hours). Interns are expected to work under the supervision of a staff member in the department or office to which they are assigned. Candidates who are currently employed are encouraged to take a leave of absence or discontinue their employment during the internship period. While part-time internships may be possible, priority will be given to candidates who can commit to full-time work. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for candidates to disclose any current or future employment that may conflict with the internship. A completed online application, including a Motivation Statement and proof of enrollment or graduation, is required for consideration. Due to the high volume of applications, only successful candidates will be contacted.