Internship at UNEP Ecosystems Division

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established in 1972, UNEP promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization operates in over 146 countries and has a mission to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Ecosystems Division works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition.

Job Overview:
This internship is offered within UNEP's Ecosystems Division, specifically in the Regional Seas Branch, which coordinates the Coordinating Body on the Seas of East Asia (COBSEA). The internship will take place in both Bangkok, Thailand, and Nairobi, Kenya. The COBSEA is the lead agency of the United Nations for marine environmental matters in the East Asian Seas, focusing on the sustainable management and use of marine and coastal environments. The intern will be involved in supporting Regional Seas activities, particularly in relation to marine litter and plastic pollution initiatives. This role is crucial for the implementation of the East Asian Seas Action Plan and the Regional Action Plan on Marine Litter (RAP MALI), which aims to coordinate and facilitate cooperation in managing marine litter in the region. The intern will work under the supervision of the COBSEA Coordinator and will be expected to contribute to various projects and initiatives, enhancing their understanding of marine environmental management and policy implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will have a range of responsibilities, including: organizing meetings and events for COBSEA Task Force and Working Group on Marine Litter; supporting the implementation of regional initiatives on marine litter and plastic pollution; assisting with pilot projects and knowledge-sharing platforms; conducting research for project development and proposals; generating content for public outreach, including website updates, newsletters, and presentations; and supporting other tasks as required based on the intern's interests. The intern will work full-time, five days a week, for a duration of six months, gaining valuable experience in environmental policy and management.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) in a field related to natural sciences, social sciences, sustainable development, communication, or economics; be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent); or have graduated with a university degree and must commence the internship within one year of graduation. While professional work experience is not required, a relevant field of study is essential. Proof of enrollment or graduation must be provided with the application.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, social science, sustainable development, communication, or economics. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of marine environmental management and the policies associated with it. The internship is designed for students in their final year of undergraduate studies or those pursuing graduate studies, ensuring that interns have a solid academic foundation to contribute effectively to the projects they will be involved in.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have a strong academic background in a relevant field. This could include coursework or projects related to environmental policy, marine science, or sustainable development. The internship is particularly suited for individuals who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in the field of environmental management, especially in relation to marine issues.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this internship, as it is the primary working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the official working languages. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance a candidate's application but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires full-time commitment, with interns expected to work 35-40 hours per week. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.