Internship at United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNCTAD is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the field of trade and development. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, and are expected to engage in various tasks that contribute to the organization's communications efforts. The internship is unpaid and can be conducted in-person or remotely, depending on the intern's circumstances. Interns will receive training and mentoring throughout their tenure, which is set to begin on March 2, 2026, and last for six months. The role involves assisting in drafting and editing content for public information materials, producing multimedia materials, and contributing to the implementation of the office's communications strategy. Interns will also help organize events and outreach initiatives, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the UN's operations and communications.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Drafting and editing content for public information materials such as news stories, newsletters, blogs, and social media posts.
• Assisting in the production of social media plans and campaigns to enhance the visibility of UNCTAD's publications and events.
• Creating multimedia materials, including infographics, motion graphics, short videos, and presentation templates.
• Contributing to the implementation of the office's communications strategy through social media outreach.
• Assisting in organizing and executing the launch of publications and events.
• Identifying key contacts and opportunities for strategic partnerships to enhance communications efforts.
• Organizing conferences, seminars, and press briefings, and preparing briefing materials for senior officials.
• Initiating and carrying out assigned tasks and special projects as directed by supervisors.
• Observing all applicable rules and regulations of the UN and ensuring compliance with the organization's standards.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should be computer literate in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations. They should also possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs. A background in journalism, marketing, public relations, or communications-related fields is preferred, although no prior work experience is required.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or they must have completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided with the application. This educational background is essential to ensure that interns can effectively contribute to the work of UNCTAD and gain valuable experience during their internship.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship. However, applicants should have a field of study that closely relates to the internship they are applying for. This allows interns to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting and gain insights into the workings of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French and/or Spanish is considered desirable, as it may enhance the intern's ability to communicate and collaborate within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process remains accessible to all qualified candidates.