Internship Programme at 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:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the workings of the United Nations, specifically within the UNCTAD Statistics Service. Interns are expected to work full-time, five days a week, for a duration that tentatively starts on June 15, 2026, and lasts for an initial period of three months, with the possibility of extension up to six months based on departmental needs. The internship is unpaid and requires interns to cover their own travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. Interns will be involved in statistical compilation and dissemination, focusing on areas such as south-south cooperation, illicit financial flows, trade, investment, debt, global macroeconomics, and sustainable development. Training and mentoring will be provided throughout the internship to enhance the learning experience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: maintaining and updating UNCTADstat and other databases, automating production processes for statistical series, developing mechanisms for automated data checks and validation, optimizing codes for data downloads from various sources, assisting in the organization of meetings, preparing documentation, conducting analyses, and writing reports. Interns are also expected to adhere to the rules and regulations of the UN, respect the confidentiality of information, and maintain the impartiality and independence required of the organization. They must refrain from any conduct that could adversely reflect on the UN and engage in activities compatible with its aims and objectives.

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, candidates 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. No prior work experience is required, but relevant training, education, or skills that benefit the UN during the internship are encouraged. Experience in data processing and basic statistical analysis is desirable, along with good communication skills and an interest in statistical, economic, or econometric issues.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a background in fields related to the responsibilities of the internship, such as economics, statistics, international relations, or a related discipline. The educational qualifications should align with the requirements of the UN internship program, which aims to enhance the educational experience of students and recent graduates.

Experience:
While no specific work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the internship's responsibilities. Experience in data processing, statistical analysis, and research, particularly in the context of science, technology, and innovation issues in developing countries, is considered advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it is also a working language of the UN. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not a requirement for this position.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and candidates are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns must have a valid visa for in-person internships and are required to cover all associated costs. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of employment following the internship. Interns are not eligible to apply for professional-level positions within the UN for six months after the internship ends. Candidates related to UN staff members may apply, provided they are not assigned to the same work unit or under the direct supervision of the staff member.