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

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

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

February 9, 2026February 19, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
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 global 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 sustainable economic growth and 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 workings of the United Nations. Interns will be engaged in a full-time, unpaid internship primarily located in Geneva, Switzerland, within the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC). The internship is expected to last for six months, starting on March 2, 202
  • Interns will receive training and mentoring throughout their tenure, allowing them to gain valuable insights into international trade and gender issues. The role involves supporting the delivery of an online course on trade and gender, providing administrative and technical support, and engaging with course participants. Interns will also be responsible for monitoring participant engagement and assisting in the organization of webinars and other virtual activities. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to UNCTAD's mission while enhancing the intern's educational experience and professional skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including: attending meetings and supporting coordination activities related to the online course on trade and gender; providing day-to-day administrative and technical support to the team; managing course content and participant databases; responding to inquiries from course participants; preparing course-related communications; assisting in the organization of webinars and live sessions; monitoring participant engagement and feedback; preparing materials for presentations; and supporting outreach activities related to the work programme. Interns are expected to adhere to UN regulations and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information. They will also be required to respect the impartiality and independence of the UN and refrain from any conduct that could adversely reflect on the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered for the internship. They should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program or be in the final academic year of a bachelor's degree program. Additionally, candidates should possess computer literacy in standard software applications, demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and have the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. While no prior work experience is required, applicants are encouraged to pursue studies in fields related to journalism, marketing, public relations, communications, economics, law, international relations, data and computer sciences, or trade-related disciplines. A degree in economics, development, law, political science, or other relevant social sciences is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree program. Candidates should ideally have a degree in economics, development, law, political science, or other social sciences that are relevant to the internship. This educational foundation will help interns understand the complexities of trade and development issues that UNCTAD addresses.

Experience:
No prior work experience is necessary for this internship position. The UN internship program is specifically designed to provide students and recent graduates with exposure to the workings of the United Nations, enhancing their educational experience and helping them gain practical skills in a professional environment. Interns will be guided and mentored throughout their internship, allowing them to learn and grow in their roles.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication within the diverse environment of the United Nations and facilitate interactions with French-speaking participants and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for all costs associated with travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. The internship is full-time, requiring interns to work five days a week for a total of 40 hours. Interns must have a valid visa for in-person internships and are expected to comply with all UN regulations and guidelines. The application process requires a complete online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Candidates will be assessed based on their profiles, and individual interviews may be conducted for further evaluation. It is important to note that there is no expectation of employment with the UN following the internship, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional positions within the UN for six months after completing their internship.
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