Protocol Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Resident Coordinators Office (RCO) is a vital component of the United Nations system, dedicated to supporting the roles and functions of the UN Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team (UNCT). The RCO plays a crucial role in inter-agency coordination, ensuring that various UN agencies work collaboratively to achieve common goals. Established to enhance the effectiveness of the UN's operations in countries, the RCO operates in numerous countries worldwide, facilitating communication and cooperation among different UN entities. The office in Beijing is part of this global network, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities present in China.

Job Overview:
The Protocol Intern position at the RCO China is designed for individuals who are eager to gain practical experience in a dynamic international environment. The intern will work under the supervision of the UN Partnership and Financing Officer, assisting in various protocol-related tasks that are essential for the smooth functioning of the UN's operations in China. This role is particularly suited for those interested in international relations, diplomacy, and the workings of the United Nations. The internship is full-time and unpaid, requiring a commitment of five days a week, with each working day consisting of eight hours. The intern will engage with government counterparts and support high-level UN delegations, providing both logistical and substantive assistance. This position offers a unique opportunity to learn about the intricacies of diplomatic protocol and inter-agency collaboration within the UN framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protocol Intern will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: preparing draft Note Verbales to government counterparts, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, regarding the diplomatic immunities and privileges of the RCO and its members; engaging with government counterparts to address practical protocol-related issues under the guidance of the UN Partnership Officer; supporting the UN Country Team in their requests for protocol-related assistance; and providing logistical and substantive support for incoming high-level UN delegations. The intern will also be expected to assist in the preparation of documents and reports, as well as participate in meetings and discussions related to protocol matters.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, applicants should have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams. The ability to design surveys and draft documents is considered desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be either junior or senior students in their first university degree program (bachelor or equivalent), currently enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program. This educational background is essential to ensure that the intern possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills relevant to the tasks they will undertake during the internship.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should ideally have some academic or practical exposure to international relations, diplomacy, or related fields. This could include coursework, volunteer work, or other internships that provide relevant experience in protocol, communication, or inter-agency collaboration.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Additionally, proficiency in Chinese is considered an advantage, given the location of the internship and the nature of the work involved.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of China 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 with the UN before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, 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.