Internship at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes 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 is involved in various multilateral environmental agreements, including the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions. These agreements aim to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes, ensuring sustainable management practices worldwide. UNEP operates globally, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass numerous initiatives and programs across various countries, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located in the Executive Office of UNEP, which provides strategic, coordination, and administrative support to the Executive Secretary. The role is designed to offer practical experience in high-level coordination and policy work, contributing to the Executive Office's mandate of ensuring effective organizational governance and strategic alignment. Interns will engage in various tasks that include conducting background research on policy and programmatic issues, preparing briefs and summaries for senior management, and assisting in organizing meetings. The internship is expected to last for six months, providing an opportunity for interns to gain insights into the workings of a major international organization and to contribute to significant environmental initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the Executive Office's functions. These include conducting background research on relevant policy and programmatic issues, preparing briefs, talking points, and summaries for senior management to facilitate informed decision-making. Interns will assist in organizing meetings, drafting agendas, and preparing minutes to ensure effective communication and coordination among stakeholders. They will also be involved in documentation and reporting tasks, such as drafting reports, presentations, and communication materials, as well as maintaining knowledge management systems and updating relevant databases. Additionally, interns may provide support for special projects and initiatives as assigned by the Executive Office, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the team.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be enrolled in or have recently completed (within one year) a graduate or final year of an undergraduate program in fields such as International Affairs, Environmental Science and Policy, Engineering and Public Policy, or Public Administration. While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential. Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in the field of Chemicals and Waste, and any relevant academic or practical experience in this area is desirable. Furthermore, applicants should exhibit competencies in communication, research and analysis, coordination, and documentation.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. This educational background is crucial as it ensures that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to contribute effectively to the work of the Executive Office.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates are encouraged to have some experience in policy research, drafting analytical briefs, or related activities. This experience can be academic or practical and should demonstrate the candidate's ability to engage with complex environmental issues and contribute to policy discussions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary working language of the United Nations. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders within the UN system.

Additional Notes:
Interns at UNEP are not financially remunerated, 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 Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.