Internship with the 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. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. It operates in multiple countries and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP is involved in various initiatives, including the resolution 'End plastic pollution: Towards an international legally binding instrument', which aims to address plastic pollution globally.

Job Overview:
The internship is located within the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) Secretariat, which is tasked with supporting the development of an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. The intern will engage in analytical, research, and data-related work, focusing on the full life cycle of plastics. This includes conducting desk research, preparing background documents, drafting analytical notes, and providing statistical or evidence-based inputs to support negotiations and mandated outputs. The intern will also assist in the preparation of intergovernmental meetings, workshops, and consultations related to the INC process, contributing to the overarching goal of addressing plastic pollution effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties may include: assisting in background research and reviewing data collection instruments; analyzing trends and time series data relevant to plastic production, use, waste management, and pollution pathways; collecting information from various sources; preparing analytical products, datasets, and inputs for INC documents; and assisting in the organization of intergovernmental meetings and workshops. The intern may also be required to carry out other relevant assignments as needed, contributing to the overall objectives of the INC Secretariat.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have recently completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have recently completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should be computer literate in standard software applications, with essential skills in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Knowledge of programming languages such as R, Python, Stata, and MS Access is desirable. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals are also required, along with the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Applicants should have studies in fields such as statistics, data science, mathematics, engineering, economics, environmental science, environmental policy, public policy, or equivalent areas. This educational background is crucial for the analytical and research tasks that the intern will undertake during their time with the INC Secretariat.

Experience:
While applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience, they must have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that the intern has the necessary foundational knowledge to contribute effectively to the work of the INC Secretariat.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the applicant's profile.

Additional Notes:
Internships with the United Nations are unpaid and require a full-time commitment of five days per week (40 hours). 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 located 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, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.