Internship in Investment Policy Research Section

Internship in Investment Policy Research Section

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

March 7, 2026March 17, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which was established in 196
  • UNCTAD's mission is to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy, ensuring that trade and investment contribute to sustainable development. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing global economic challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship is located in the Investment Policy Research Section of the Division on Investment and Enterprise at UNCTAD. This section is tasked with monitoring, assessing, and analyzing investment policy measures adopted by UN member states. The goal is to identify and address key and emerging policy challenges and trends, thereby informing investment policy-making that supports sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Interns will contribute to research work focusing on policies affecting foreign direct investment (FDI). The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, with the possibility of remote or hybrid work arrangements. Interns will work under the supervision of an Economic Affairs Officer and the Chief of Section, gaining valuable experience in research and policy analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will assist in conducting thematic literature reviews and desk research on investment policies and sustainable development. They will collect, organize, and analyze qualitative and quantitative data on policy measures related to FDI and their impacts. Interns will prepare inputs for publications, support the integration of research outputs into policy dialogues, and assist in organizing meetings and international events, including the World Investment Forum. They will also liaise with internal and external stakeholders and perform other duties as required. Training and mentoring will be provided throughout the internship, ensuring that interns gain a comprehensive understanding of the UN's operations and the specific functions of the Investment Policy Research Section.

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). Interns should be computer literate in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, along with a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. They should also possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
A field of study closely related to the internship is required, such as economics, international economics, development, public policy, or international relations. Applicants must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or in a Master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs within 12 months of the application date. Proof of enrollment or graduation will be required during the application process.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required to apply for this internship. However, relevant coursework or skills that can benefit the UN during the internship are encouraged. The internship is designed to provide students or recent graduates with exposure to the UN's work and enhance their educational experience.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of another UN official language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for the internship.

Additional Notes:
The internship is for a duration of six months, starting from 15 September 202
  • Candidates will be assessed based on their Personnel History Profiles (PHP), and individual interviews may be conducted for further assessment. A complete online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile, is required. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The Cover Note must detail the title of the degree, graduation date, IT skills, and reasons for being the best candidate for the internship. Interns are not financially remunerated by the UN, and costs for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
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