Intern - Special Procedures

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key department within the UN Secretariat, established to strengthen international human rights mechanisms and promote the protection of human rights globally. The OHCHR works to enhance equality, combat discrimination, and ensure accountability and the rule of law. It operates in various countries around the world, focusing on integrating human rights into development and economic policies, widening democratic spaces, and providing early warning and protection in situations of conflict and violence. The organization is committed to empowering individuals to realize their rights and assisting those responsible for upholding these rights.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in the field of human rights, particularly within the framework of the Special Procedures Sections of the Thematic and Special Procedures Division of the OHCHR. Interns will work under the overall direction of the Chief of Special Procedures and the guidance of the respective Chief of Section, reporting directly to a Human Rights Officer. The role involves supporting the OHCHR in its mission to protect human rights for all individuals, contributing to thematic reports and studies, and assisting in various tasks related to human rights assessments and documentation. Interns will have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of human rights themes and issues, providing valuable support to mandate holders and contributing to the overall goals of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks that may include: contributing to thematic reports or studies through literature research and analysis of international law; assisting in the preparation of official country visits by drafting country-specific human rights assessments; analyzing human rights issues in cases and complaints addressed to mandate holders; drafting letters summarizing human rights violations and preparing legal analyses; collecting information and conducting research for briefing notes and statements; taking notes during meetings with stakeholders, particularly civil society representatives; attending sessions of the Human Rights Council and assisting with related activities; organizing meetings and seminars; translating documents; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor. The specific responsibilities will depend on the activities of the assigned work unit and the intern's background.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must be either a graduate or currently enrolled in a graduate school program (Master's degree or equivalent) or in the final academic year of a first-level university degree program (Bachelor's degree or equivalent). The preferred fields of study include law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or related areas. While professional work experience is not required for participation in the program, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in human rights and international law.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, either having graduated or being enrolled in a graduate program (Master's level) or in the final year of a Bachelor's degree program. The focus should ideally be on areas such as law, political science, international relations, or social sciences, which are pertinent to the work of the OHCHR and the Special Procedures.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and a keen interest in human rights issues, international law, and the workings of the United Nations system. This internship is particularly suitable for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and to develop their skills in research, analysis, and communication within an international context.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for the internship. Knowledge of French, which is another working language of the United Nations Secretariat, is also required. Additionally, proficiency in another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position offered for an initial period of three months, with the possibility of renewal for a combined total of six months, subject to supervisor approval. Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland to discuss their visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.