Intern - Urdu Language Unit

Intern - Urdu Language Unit

United Nations Secretariat

December 24, 2025January 21, 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. The organization operates in various sectors, including humanitarian aid, development, and human rights, with a workforce of over 44,000 employees worldwide. The UN has a presence in multiple countries, working to address global challenges and foster international collaboration.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is situated within the Urdu Language Unit of the News Section I, which is part of the News and Content Branch of the Department of Global Communications at the United Nations. This branch serves as a multimedia service that aims to promote the core ideals of the UN, such as peace, human rights, and development. The intern will gain practical experience in a dynamic newsroom environment, focusing on the production of daily news, in-depth features, and multimedia content in Urdu. Responsibilities will include drafting news articles, proofreading, fact-checking, and assisting in the creation of various multimedia products. The role is designed for individuals eager to learn about the UN's operations and contribute to its mission through effective communication in the Urdu language.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will encompass a variety of tasks aimed at supporting the Urdu Language Unit's objectives. These include:
  • Drafting Urdu news articles by integrating and translating information from diverse sources such as reports, press releases, and official statements.
  • Proofreading articles before and after publication to ensure accuracy and clarity.
  • Assisting with fact-checking and conducting background research to support news production.
  • Contributing to the creation of graphic, visual, and audio content.
  • Engaging in feature story development, including conducting research and interviews.
  • Collaborating with the UN Partnerships Unit to review the partnerships database and identify potential new media partners.
  • Performing additional duties as assigned, which may include outreach activities.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet specific criteria:
  • Enrollment in or completion of a graduate program in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, English, Urdu, or translation studies (second university degree or equivalent, or higher). Alternatively, applicants may be in their final academic year of a first university degree program in the same fields (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent).
  • Proficiency in standard word processing and spreadsheet software, such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals.
  • Ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing tolerance for differing opinions.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, which includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree program in fields related to communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, English, Urdu, or translation studies. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the UN's work and contributing effectively to the Urdu Language Unit.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or skills that would benefit the United Nations during their internship. This could include coursework, volunteer work, or other experiences that demonstrate a commitment to the UN's mission and values.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Urdu is required for this internship, as these are the primary languages used in the role. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered desirable, which may enhance the candidate's profile and ability to contribute to the UN's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. All costs related to 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 country where the internship is located may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
Similar Jobs