Internship at United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to become a pivotal advocate for the global environment, operating in over 100 countries with a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNEP is designed for a highly motivated individual who is passionate about addressing environmental and climate-related risks to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The intern will be based in Geneva and will report directly to the Project Coordinator and the Manager of the EU-UNEP Climate Change and Security Partnership Programme. The primary focus of this internship will be on providing essential support to UNEP's project activities, particularly in the areas of research, analysis, and communication. The intern will engage in various tasks that contribute to the implementation of project activities related to climate and environmental risks, thereby playing a vital role in supporting UNEP's mission to promote sustainable development and resilience in fragile regions affected by conflict and environmental crises.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of programmes and projects managed by the Policy and Analysis Unit of the Disasters and Conflicts Branch. Ensure clear and effective communication of goals, progress, and outcomes with stakeholders. Leverage websites, online platforms, and digital tools to access relevant data, share updates, and collaborate efficiently with stakeholders and external partners. Support the monitoring and analysis of programme and project activities by reviewing documents and reports, identifying issues, and proposing solutions, while using online platforms to facilitate real-time communication and seamless collaboration.
• Provide support in conducting research using geospatial datasets to analyse environmental and climate-related risks to peace and security. Assist in utilizing geospatial tools and platforms to map and evaluate key factors, helping to identify areas where environmental and climate challenges intersect with social and economic vulnerabilities. Contribute to the exploration of nature-based solutions, such as ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, by supporting the visualization of their potential impacts through geospatial data modelling. Help prepare and present findings through maps, graphs, and spatial analyses to aid evidence-based decision-making and facilitate the integration of geospatial insights into programme planning and policy development.
• Provide support in preparing high-impact written materials such as draft research papers, analytical reports, and sections of studies that align with organizational priorities. Assist in developing contributions for publications, ensuring they reflect strategic goals and communicate key insights effectively. Conduct targeted background research, synthesize data, and draft content that addresses critical issues, supports decision-making, and drives programme objectives forward. Collaborate with team members to refine drafts and align messaging with overarching strategic frameworks.
• Assist in planning and executing consultative meetings and conferences with a focus on achieving strategic outcomes. Propose agenda topics that align with organizational priorities, identify key stakeholders and participants, and develop comprehensive preparatory materials, including briefing notes, background documents, and compelling presentations. Provide logistical and technical support to ensure meetings are efficiently executed and contribute to actionable outcomes by preparing post-meeting summaries, reports, and follow-up documentation.
• Support the design and delivery of outreach and communication activities, such as training workshops, seminars, or presentations, that advance strategic initiatives. Assist in developing targeted content and materials to effectively engage stakeholders and communicate the organization’s goals. Coordinate logistical elements, such as participant outreach and technical arrangements, while ensuring that activities are aligned with broader communication and capacity-building strategies.
• Help coordinate budget-related activities with a strategic focus on resource allocation and financial planning to support programme goals. Assist in drafting funding proposals, tracking financial performance, and preparing detailed financial statements and progress reports. Ensure financial data is strategically analyzed and presented to inform decision-making, optimize resource utilization, and enhance accountability to stakeholders. Collaborate on efforts to align funding activities with the long-term goals of the organization.
• Perform any other tasks as requested by the Programme Coordinator or Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Currently enrolled in or within one year of completing a master’s program in environmental sciences, policy, climate change studies, communications, public policy, geography, or related fields; final-year undergraduates with relevant experience may be considered. Proven research and data analysis skills, including experience with geospatial datasets and tools. Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience preparing professional reports and research papers. Ability to develop outreach materials and presentations tailored to diverse audiences. Proficiency in digital tools, including websites, online collaboration platforms, and content management systems. Knowledge of data visualization tools for creating analytical visuals. Passion for addressing environmental and climate-related risks to peace and security, with a focus on sustainable solutions. Familiarity with social media, online communications strategies, and web-based content management systems.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be currently enrolled in or have recently completed a master’s program in relevant fields such as environmental sciences, policy, climate change studies, communications, public policy, geography, or related disciplines. Final-year undergraduates with relevant experience may also be considered for this internship opportunity.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have proven research and data analysis skills, particularly with geospatial datasets and tools. Experience in preparing professional reports and research papers is essential, along with the ability to develop outreach materials and presentations tailored to diverse audiences. Familiarity with digital tools and online collaboration platforms is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered an advantage, as it may enhance communication and outreach efforts within the diverse international context of UNEP's work.

Additional Notes:
This internship is UNPAID and full-time, requiring interns to work five days per week (35-40 hours). Interns may only undertake internships within UN Secretariat agencies for a cumulative duration of 6 months maximum. Interns are responsible for their own costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware of their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer.