Internship at United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations Secretariat and was established in 196

• Its mission is to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy, with a focus on trade, investment, and sustainable development. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. The organization aims to provide a platform for dialogue and policy-making among member states, fostering economic growth and development through research, analysis, and capacity-building initiatives.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNCTAD is designed to provide students or recent graduates with an opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of trade and development. Interns will be expected to work full-time, five days a week, for a maximum duration of six months, starting from 15 March 202

• The internship will take place in the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC), specifically within the Extractive Commodities Section. Interns will receive training and mentoring throughout their tenure, allowing them to develop their skills and knowledge in trade-related issues, particularly in commodities and economic diversification. The role involves assisting in research, data compilation, and document preparation, contributing to the overall objectives of the section while adhering to the UN's principles and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Compiling information and data related to trade in commodities, focusing on the interactions between commodities and economic diversification.
• Conducting quantitative and qualitative research using statistical tools to support the section's initiatives.
• Preparing drafts on specific topics as directed by supervisors, which may include creating visual aids such as charts and graphs.
• Providing substantive support in the preparation of documents, including presentations, letters, project documents, and assessments.
• Assisting with proofreading and editing publications to ensure clarity and accuracy.
• Supporting other activities of the Extractive Commodities Section as needed.
• Observing all applicable UN rules and regulations, ensuring compliance with the organization's standards and maintaining confidentiality regarding sensitive information.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered for the internship. They should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). Additionally, candidates should possess a background in economics, preferably with knowledge of commodity markets. Familiarity with statistical software, such as Stata, is essential, along with proficiency in standard software applications. A strong interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals are also required. Interns should demonstrate the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and possess skills in data processing and statistical analysis, although no prior work experience is necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a student in the final year of a bachelor's degree program or having completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. Candidates must provide proof of their academic status at the time of application, including an official certificate if requested later. The field of study should be closely related to the internship's focus on trade and development, ensuring that interns can contribute meaningfully to the work of the UNCTAD.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required for this internship, making it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain exposure to the workings of the United Nations. However, applicants should have a field of study that aligns with the internship's objectives, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting. The internship is designed to enhance the educational experience of participants and help them develop skills relevant to their future careers.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French and/or Spanish, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages can be beneficial in the diverse and multicultural environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern. Interns must have a valid visa for in-person internships and are required to have access to a computer with the latest version of Office 365 applications for remote work. The application process includes submitting a complete online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile (PHP). Candidates will be assessed based on their profiles, and individual interviews may be conducted for further evaluation. It is important to note that there is no expectation of employment within the UN following the internship, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional-level positions within six months after completing their internship. Additionally, applicants who are related to UN staff members must adhere to specific guidelines regarding their eligibility.