Intern - Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) 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 poverty, inequality, and climate change. 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 individuals across diverse fields, including economic affairs, human rights, and humanitarian assistance, working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established in 2015.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in Economic Affairs at the United Nations is designed for individuals who are eager to gain practical experience in the field of economic analysis and policy development. Interns will support the UN's efforts in addressing critical issues related to financing for development and sustainable water and sanitation, which are integral to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6). The role involves a combination of document preparation, event coordination, and research, providing a comprehensive introduction to the workings of the UN and its initiatives. Interns will have the opportunity to engage with various stakeholders, attend conferences, and contribute to meaningful projects that impact global development agendas.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support with Document Preparation and Event Coordination: Interns will be responsible for drafting background notes, reports, briefings, and presentations that aid in organizing technical meetings, webinars, and workshops. This includes ensuring that all materials are well-prepared and relevant to the topics being discussed.
• Assistance with Conference and Meeting Support: Interns will attend conferences and meetings, assisting in the preparation of reports that summarize discussions and outcomes. This role requires active participation and note-taking to capture key points and insights.
• Artificial Intelligence, Data and Statistical Analysis: Interns will provide data and statistical support on themes related to financing for development and clean water and sanitation. This involves leveraging statistical tools and methods, as well as generative AI-based Large Language Models (LLMs), to analyze data and produce actionable insights.
• Research: Interns will conduct literature reviews and identify areas for further research and evidence-based policy analysis on the aforementioned themes. This includes synthesizing information from various sources and presenting findings in a clear and concise manner.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Additionally, applicants must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), Master’s or Ph.D. Programme, or have completed such programmes. Desirable qualifications include research experience on Africa’s sustainable development and knowledge of Agendas 2030 and 2063, including their means of implementation.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a relevant educational background, ideally in fields such as economics, international relations, public policy, or a related discipline. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required, with preference given to those who are pursuing or have completed advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.).

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory, any relevant research experience, particularly in sustainable development or economic policy, will be considered an asset. Interns should demonstrate a strong understanding of the issues related to financing for development and sustainable water and sanitation.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, and proficiency in these languages will enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to the team.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations. All 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 country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.