Intern - Protocol Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV) was established to provide administrative support to various UN programs, including conference planning, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and language interpretation. It plays a crucial role in representing the Secretary-General in dealings with the host country and diplomatic missions in Vienna. The UNOV operates alongside the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which assists Member States in addressing issues related to drugs, crime, corruption, and terrorism, promoting security and justice globally. The organization is committed to fostering international cooperation and understanding, and it employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the ideals of the United Nations.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located within the Protocol and NGO Liaison Office of the UNOV, specifically in the Office of the Director-General/Office of the Executive Director of the UNODC. The internship is designed to provide practical experience in protocol services, which includes liaising with the Host Country and Permanent Missions on accreditation and protocol matters. Interns will be expected to manage and update various protocol databases, assist in drafting and reviewing office documentation, and support special events and meetings, particularly those involving high-level counterparts. This role is integral to the functioning of the UNOV and UNODC, providing interns with a unique opportunity to engage with international diplomacy and protocol.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: assisting in liaising with the Host Country and Permanent Missions regarding accreditation and protocol matters; managing and updating protocol databases; drafting and reviewing office documentation; assisting during special events and meetings; and performing other ad-hoc assignments as required. The internship requires a commitment of five days per week, totaling 40 hours, under the supervision of a staff member. Interns will gain hands-on experience in the workings of the UN and develop skills relevant to international relations and protocol.

Required Qualifications:
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, demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have recently completed such programs. Proof of enrollment or completion will be required during the application process. This educational background ensures that interns have the necessary theoretical knowledge to complement their practical experience at the UN.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, applicants should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This could include studies in international relations, political science, law, or other related fields that provide a foundation for understanding the UN's operations and protocol.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it 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 candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week for a duration of six months, starting from the end of February or beginning of March. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Austria may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.