Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, established to set the global environmental agenda and promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and coordinates the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Ecosystems Division works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. The organization operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located in the UNEP Ecosystems Division, specifically within the Director's Office. The role is designed to provide support to the Deputy Director, which includes preparing for meetings, organizing documentation, and assisting in various administrative tasks. Interns will be expected to engage in special projects and priority initiatives led by the Deputy Director, which will involve coordination, research, and follow-up actions. The internship aims to enhance the intern's understanding of environmental policy and management while contributing to the overall work of the Ecosystems Division. Interns will also have the opportunity to undertake targeted research and analysis to inform knowledge management and process improvements, thereby gaining valuable insights into the workings of a major international organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: providing support to the Deputy Director, which involves meeting preparation and documentation; assisting in organizing internal meetings by preparing agendas, taking minutes, and tracking follow-up actions; supporting special projects and priority initiatives through coordination, research, and follow-up; undertaking targeted research and analysis, including internal reports and data; assisting in preparing internal communications, briefing notes, and presentation materials; liaising with division teams to gather inputs and support coordination on key activities; and undertaking other tasks as required, in line with the intern's interests and experience. This diverse set of responsibilities is designed to provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of the operations within the UNEP Ecosystems Division.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application: be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent); or have graduated with a university degree. Additionally, applicants should be pursuing qualifications in areas of study that can significantly contribute to the responsibilities outlined and the overall work of the Ecosystems Division Director's Office. This includes having a background in programme management, business administration, development studies, or other related fields. Demonstrated interest and experience in issues related to programme coordination, project management, or support to environmental and conservation initiatives is also essential. Experience in organizing meetings or conferences, including managing stakeholder coordination, is highly desirable. While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, a relevant field of study is necessary, and applicants should provide examples of how they meet this criterion.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be a student in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. programme, or have completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. programme. This educational background is crucial as it ensures that the intern has the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the work of the UNEP Ecosystems Division. Applicants must also provide proof of their educational status at the time of application, which may include an official certificate or documentation from their educational institution.

Experience:
While the UN Internship Programme does not require professional work experience, it is important for applicants to have relevant academic experience or internships that align with the responsibilities of the position. This could include coursework, projects, or volunteer work that demonstrates a commitment to environmental issues and the ability to work in a collaborative environment. Interns should be prepared to discuss their experiences and how they relate to the tasks they will be undertaking during the internship.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language, such as French, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application. Proficiency in communication is essential, as interns will be required to prepare internal communications and liaise with various teams within the organization.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.