Intern - SDG Localization and Local Governments Team

Intern - SDG Localization and Local Governments Team

United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHABITAT)

February 4, 2026February 19, 2026NairobiKenya
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable urbanization and human settlements. It operates globally, focusing on creating socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities, aiming to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. The organization is involved in numerous initiatives and programs that address urbanization challenges and promote sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The intern will be placed in the SDG Cities and Multilevel Governance Team within UN-Habitat's Global Solutions Division. This position involves supporting the organization and maintenance of filing systems, assisting with document preparation, and providing administrative support across various SDG localization initiatives. The intern will work closely with project managers and administrative focal points to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and within deadlines. The role is designed to provide valuable experience in the workings of the United Nations and its commitment to sustainable urban development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities include organizing and maintaining both digital and physical filing systems, ensuring that documents are properly catalogued and easily retrievable. They will assist in preparing, formatting, and quality-checking various documents such as reports and correspondence. The intern will also follow up on financial commitments, draft routine correspondence, and support meeting organization by taking notes and coordinating participants. Additionally, they will maintain tracking sheets for project documentation and assist with data entry and verification across project workflows. The intern may be required to perform other administrative duties as requested by the team.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program, be in the final year of a first university degree program, or have graduated with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree. Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly Microsoft Office Suite, is required. Candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. A field of study related to the internship is preferred, and applicants must provide proof of their qualifications.

Educational Background:
The ideal educational background for this position includes being a final year undergraduate or a graduate student in fields such as Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, Finance/Accounting, International Relations, or related areas with strong administrative coursework. Applicants must be students in their final year of their first university degree or have completed a higher degree.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not required for this internship, applicants should have a field of study closely related to the internship type they are applying for. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates, allowing them to gain practical experience in a UN setting.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this internship position. Knowledge of another UN language, such as French, is desirable but not required. English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in these languages will enhance the intern's ability to perform effectively in the role.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.
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