Internship at United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on 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 economic growth through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
This internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is primarily located at the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) within the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC). The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of five days per week, totaling 40 hours. The internship is set to begin on March 2, 2026, and will last for six months. Interns may work in-person or remotely, depending on their circumstances. For those opting for in-person internships, it is essential to possess a valid visa, as all travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern. Remote interns must have access to a computer equipped with a modern browser and the latest version of Office 365 applications. Basic IT security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security measures must be implemented on their devices. Throughout the internship, training and mentoring will be provided by the supervisor and team members, ensuring that interns gain valuable experience and insights into the workings of the UN.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be expected to carry out a variety of tasks under the supervision of the Senior Economic Officer. Key responsibilities include drafting inputs for technical papers and analytical studies focusing on the gender implications of trade, mining, and critical minerals policies. Interns will also attend meetings and prepare summary reports, support communication and outreach activities related to the work programme, assist in organizing webinars, round tables, and seminars, and provide inputs for documentation related to technical cooperation programmes and projects. Additionally, interns will prepare materials for presentations by team members and perform other related duties as required. It is crucial for interns to adhere to all applicable rules and regulations of the UN, respect the confidentiality of information, and maintain the impartiality and independence expected of UN personnel.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered for the internship. They should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level). Interns should demonstrate computer literacy in standard software applications and possess a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, along with a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. Additionally, candidates should exhibit the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing tolerance for differing opinions and views. A field of study related to economics, resource economics, economic geology, environmental science, energy economics, development studies, law, or trade-related fields is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes a university degree in areas such as economics, development, law, political science, or other social sciences deemed appropriate. While no prior work experience is necessary, applicants must have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that interns have the foundational knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the work of UNCTAD.

Experience:
No professional work experience is required for this internship position. However, applicants should have a strong academic background in a relevant field of study, which will help them understand and engage with the tasks and responsibilities associated with the internship. The focus is on providing students or recent graduates with practical experience in a professional setting, enhancing their educational experience and preparing them for future career opportunities.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the United Nations. Proficiency in additional languages could also be beneficial, depending on the specific tasks and interactions involved in the internship.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship takes place may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. Candidates will be assessed based on their Personal History Profiles (PHP), and individual interviews may be conducted for further evaluation. A complete online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile, is required, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The Cover Note must detail the title of the degree, graduation date, IT skills, and reasons for being the best candidate for the internship. Due to the high volume of applications, only successful candidates will be contacted. It is important to note that there is no expectation of employment within the UN following the internship, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional-level positions within the UN for six months after completing their internship. Additionally, applicants who are related to UN staff members must not be assigned to the same work unit or be under the direct supervision of such staff members.