Intern for Sustainable Urban Development Section

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Environment and Development Division, specifically the Sustainable Urban Development Section, which operates under the United Nations. The UN is dedicated to promoting peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. The Sustainable Urban Development Section focuses on advancing resilient and sustainable urban development across Asia and the Pacific. This division works with member states and key stakeholders to implement global and regional frameworks, provide technical assistance, and develop knowledge products that support evidence-based decision-making. The organization is known for its commitment to sustainable development and has a presence in numerous countries worldwide, working towards improving urban environments and living conditions.

Job Overview:
The internship position is designed for individuals who are interested in gaining practical experience in the field of sustainable urban development. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, under the supervision of a staff member in the Sustainable Urban Development Section. The internship is unpaid and is expected to last between four to six months, with a desired start date between April and July 202

• Interns will engage in various tasks that contribute to the section's mission of promoting sustainable urban development, including supporting intergovernmental processes, conducting research, and assisting with project implementation. The role offers a unique opportunity to learn about the workings of the United Nations and to contribute to meaningful projects that impact urban development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a diverse set of responsibilities that may vary based on their background and the specific team they are assigned to. Key duties include:

• Providing support in organizing and conducting meetings relevant to the work of the Sustainable Urban Development Section, which involves drafting concept notes, documents, and communication materials, preparing for intergovernmental meetings, and supporting follow-up activities (30% of the time).
• Assisting with tasks related to the organizational and substantive dimensions of program and project implementation, focusing on sustainable and resilient urban development, including urban resilience, smart cities, and equitable sanitation for low-income communities (30% of the time).
• Conducting research and identifying case studies on urban development policies and programs that contribute to inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development in the Asia-Pacific region (20% of the time).
• Supporting day-to-day operational tasks of the section, such as responding to information requests, preparing presentations, and updating webpages related to the section's work (20% of the time).

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, 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) in fields related to international development, sustainable development, urban planning, environmental management, social science, or international relations; or (b) Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent) in related disciplines. Additionally, candidates should possess special skills such as a good command of Microsoft Suite beyond basic applications, video-editing skills, and graphic design or illustration skills related to urban design work. Familiarity with AI tools to enhance work quality and efficiency is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background that aligns with the internship's focus on sustainable urban development. This includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree in fields such as sustainable development, urban planning, environmental management, or international relations. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong understanding of the principles and practices related to urban development and sustainability.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in sustainable urban development and related fields. Any previous internships, volunteer work, or academic projects that showcase relevant skills or knowledge will be advantageous. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, so a willingness to learn and engage with the work of the Sustainable Urban Development Section is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial. Additionally, familiarity with another language used in the Asia-Pacific region, such as Laotian, Khmer, Bengali, Nepali, or Japanese, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The 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 Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not financially burdened by the application or selection process.