Internship at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key department within the UN Secretariat, established to strengthen international human rights mechanisms and promote the protection of human rights globally. The OHCHR works to enhance equality, counter discrimination, combat impunity, and strengthen accountability and the rule of law. It integrates human rights into development and economic policies, widens democratic spaces, and provides early warning and protection in situations of conflict and violence. The OHCHR Regional Office for Europe, established in 2009, specifically focuses on advancing human rights within the European Union and its member states, promoting the integration of UN human rights standards into EU policies and national legislation. The office is dedicated to addressing human rights issues in Europe and ensuring that human rights considerations are included in EU external actions and policies. For more information, visit https://europe.ohchr.org.

Job Overview:
The internship at the OHCHR Regional Office for Europe is designed to provide students from diverse academic backgrounds with exposure to the work of the United Nations. Interns will work under the overall direction of the Regional Representative and report to the respective Human Rights Officer in their assigned work unit. This full-time internship lasts for six months and is unpaid, allowing interns to gain valuable experience in the field of human rights while contributing to the office's mission. Interns are expected to demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the UN and a commitment to its ideals, as well as the ability to interact effectively with individuals from various cultural backgrounds. The internship provides a unique opportunity to learn about the UN's operations and the importance of human rights in international relations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be involved in various tasks that support the work of the OHCHR Regional Office for Europe. Responsibilities may include conducting research on human rights issues, assisting in the preparation of reports and documents, participating in meetings and discussions, and supporting the implementation of human rights initiatives. Interns will also have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders, including government representatives, civil society organizations, and other UN entities. They are expected to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines effectively. The internship will provide practical experience in human rights advocacy and policy development, as well as exposure to the workings of the UN system.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level), or have graduated with a university degree in law, political science, international relations, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications, particularly Microsoft Word and Excel. 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:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in a graduate program or being in the final year of a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as law, political science, or international relations. Graduates who have completed their degree within the past year are also eligible to apply, provided they can commence the internship within one year of graduation. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the UN's role in addressing them.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in human rights and international relations. Experience in research, advocacy, or involvement in human rights-related activities, whether through academic projects, volunteer work, or internships, will be advantageous. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is essential, as is the capacity to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this internship. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage, as it may enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the intern's overall effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and all related expenses, including travel, insurance, and living costs, are the responsibility of the intern. Interns must provide proof of enrollment in a health insurance plan and are responsible for obtaining necessary visas and travel arrangements. It is important to note that interns are not considered UN staff members and cannot represent the UN in any official capacity. They are also ineligible to apply for or be appointed to any UN position during the internship and for six months following its completion. The UN is committed to gender parity and diversity in its workforce, encouraging individuals from minority backgrounds to apply. All applications will be treated confidentially.