Internship in Public Inquiries Unit and Group Programmes Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries worldwide, with a significant presence in New York City, where its headquarters is located. The organization employs thousands of individuals across diverse fields, working collaboratively to achieve its goals and uphold the principles of the UN Charter.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to provide a comprehensive experience within the Public Inquiries Unit (PIU) and the Group Programmes Unit (GPU) of the Visitors Services Section at the United Nations. The primary focus of this role is to engage with the public, educating them about the UN's work and initiatives. Interns will have the opportunity to assist in various outreach activities, including guided tours of UN Headquarters, briefings with UN experts, and responding to public inquiries. The internship is structured to be full-time and in-person, with the possibility of adjustments based on the intern's availability and the needs of the organization. Interns will work under the supervision of experienced staff members, gaining valuable insights into the operations of the UN and the importance of public engagement in promoting the organization's ideals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a range of tasks that support the Visitors Services Section's mission. These responsibilities include assisting with outreach activities aimed at educating the public about the UN's work, providing support for guided tours, briefings, and events. Interns will also conduct research on UN thematic issues, draft correspondence, short articles, and content for fact sheets and social media. Additionally, they will respond to visitors' queries both in person and in writing, assist in developing and analyzing surveys on visitor experiences, and contribute to multimedia projects by taking photographs and videos. The specific duties may vary based on the intern's background and the unit to which they are assigned, ensuring a tailored experience that aligns with their skills and interests.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: either be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent) or be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher). While professional work experience is not required for this internship, a field of study related to the internship is essential. Candidates should possess good knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word and MS PowerPoint, and have the ability to draft short articles and texts for fact sheets and information materials. Hands-on experience in photography and/or videography, including basic editing for web and social media, is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in or completion of a bachelor's degree program or a graduate program in a relevant field. This could encompass areas such as communications, international relations, public relations, or any other discipline that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. The emphasis is on candidates who have a strong academic foundation and a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and its outreach efforts.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates are expected to have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the internship's focus. This could include involvement in university projects, volunteer work, or other activities that demonstrate a commitment to public service, communication, or international affairs. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, making it suitable for individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to the UN's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official language of the United Nations, such as French, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages can be an asset in engaging with diverse audiences and fulfilling the responsibilities of the internship effectively.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and candidates must provide their own hardware (computer), software, and internet connection to perform the internship duties. The expected duration of the internship is between 4 to 6 months, with a preference for a 6-month commitment. Interns are required to submit a completed online application, including a motivational statement that outlines their interest in the UN Internship Programme and their suitability for the specific internship. It is important to note that applicants who are children or siblings of UN staff members are not eligible for this internship. Additionally, interns must ensure they have the necessary visa and work authorization to undertake the internship in the United States, and the UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.