PPLA Section Intern (Legal Unit)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, which was established in 1950 by the General Assembly of the United Nations in response to the aftermath of the Second World War. The organization is dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or statelessness. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries worldwide, providing essential life-saving assistance such as shelter, food, water, and medical care to those in need. The organization advocates for the rights of refugees and works to ensure that they can find safety and rebuild their lives. UNHCR's mission is to lead international efforts to protect refugees and displaced persons, ensuring that human rights are upheld globally. The organization is committed to enhancing protection delivery and improving legal frameworks related to refugee and asylum laws.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located within the Protection Policy and Legal Advice (PPLA) Section of UNHCR's Legal Unit. The intern will be integrated into the team and will provide valuable assistance in ongoing law and policy work concerning refugees and asylum-seekers. This role is designed to familiarize the intern with the daily operations of UNHCR Headquarters and its engagement with various operations and partners. The overarching objectives of the internship include gaining a deeper understanding of UNHCR's work and the international legal frameworks governing refugee protection, as well as developing professional skills such as time management, teamwork, legal research, and drafting. The intern will engage in tasks that contribute to the development of legal and policy documents, enhancing their knowledge of the legal standards and practices relevant to the rights of displaced populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting research and analysis on legal and policy issues relevant to the protection of refugees and asylum-seekers; updating and drafting legal analytical papers and policy documents; preparing reports on global law and policy developments related to forcibly displaced and stateless persons; assisting in the collection and analysis of data on refugee treaties and legislation; editing position papers and other legal documents; attending meetings, workshops, and seminars, and providing notes and feedback to the team. The intern will be expected to actively participate in team discussions and contribute to the overall objectives of the Legal Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria to be considered for the internship. They should either be recent graduates who have completed their studies within the last two years or current students in a graduate or undergraduate program from an accredited university. Additionally, candidates must have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies in a relevant field. Previous UNHCR internship experience is acceptable, provided that the total cumulative duration does not exceed eight months. It is important to note that individuals with a familial relationship to current UNHCR staff members are not eligible for the internship.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of two years of undergraduate studies in a field relevant to UNHCR's work, such as international law, human rights, political science, or a related discipline. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of legal frameworks and policies concerning refugees and asylum-seekers.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in refugee issues and international law. Previous internships or volunteer work related to human rights, legal research, or advocacy will be considered advantageous. The internship is designed for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience in a professional setting and develop their skills in legal analysis and policy development.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of a second UN language is desirable, as it will enhance the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not a strict requirement.

Additional Notes:
This internship is part-time, requiring 26 hours of work per week, typically from 10 AM to 3 PM, Monday to Friday. The internship duration is from February 16 to May 15, 202

• Interns are responsible for acquiring and renewing necessary visas and permits, as well as obtaining health insurance and medical certification. The sponsoring institution must provide proof of funding for the internship period. UNHCR does not offer remuneration for interns, and travel expenses to and from the internship location are the responsibility of the sponsoring institution. The organization encourages applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds, including those with refugee or stateless status, and is committed to providing an inclusive working environment.