Internship in Debt and Financial Analysis Unit

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 addressing global economic challenges and fostering sustainable development. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing nations in their efforts to achieve economic growth and sustainable development through research, policy analysis, and technical assistance.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is situated within the Debt and Financial Analysis Unit (DFAU) of the Debt and Development Finance Branch (DDFB) in the Division on Globalisation and Development Strategies of UNCTAD. The primary focus of this internship is to contribute to research, consensus building, and technical assistance related to debt and development finance issues. Interns will engage in various tasks that support the preparation of the UN Secretary General's annual report on external debt sustainability and development, as well as provide secretarial support for the bi-annual international UNCTAD Debt Management Conference. The internship is designed to enhance the educational experience of students or recent graduates while providing them with practical exposure to the workings of the UN. Interns are expected to conduct desktop research, compile statistics, update databases, create dashboards, prepare presentations, and assist in organizing events and meetings. This position is in-person and requires a valid visa for participation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting desktop research on debt and development finance issues; assisting in compiling and analyzing statistical data; updating existing databases and creating new dashboards; preparing PowerPoint presentations for internal and external meetings; assisting in the organization of virtual meetings and events, including those related to the IMF/WB Spring meetings and the 15th Debt Management Conference; observing and adhering to all applicable UN rules and regulations; providing copies of all materials prepared during the internship to the receiving departments; respecting the confidentiality and impartiality required by the UN; and refraining from any conduct that could adversely reflect on the UN or its objectives. Interns should also be aware that there is no expectation of employment with the UN following the internship, and they are not eligible to apply for professional positions within the UN for six months after the internship ends.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, interns 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. No prior work experience is required, but a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Good knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a relevant academic program at the graduate or undergraduate level. This includes those pursuing a master's degree or those in their final year of a bachelor's degree program. The educational background should be closely related to the internship's focus on debt and development finance, economics, international relations, or a related field.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should have relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. The focus is on providing students or recent graduates with practical experience that complements their educational background.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in these languages will enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to the team's work.

Additional Notes:
This internship is offered for a duration of six months and is in-person, requiring interns to cover all costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. Interns must have a valid visa to participate in the internship. The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of employment following the internship. Interns are responsible for their own visa and work authorization arrangements, and those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to secure the appropriate visa before starting the internship.