Internship with the Environment and Development Policy Section (EDPS)

Job Posting Organization:
The Environment and Development Policy Section (EDPS) is part of the Environment and Development Division (EDD) of the United Nations. The organization focuses on supporting member States in formulating and implementing environment and development policies through various means such as policy analysis, institutional development, and regional cooperation. The EDPS operates in the Asia-Pacific region, which faces significant challenges in achieving the environmental dimensions of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to issues like climate change and air pollution. The organization aims to facilitate collaboration among member States and promote mutual learning and cooperation through initiatives like the Seoul Initiative Network on Green Growth (SINGG) and the Regional Action Programme on Air Pollution (RAPAP).

Job Overview:
The internship is a six-month, full-time, unpaid program based in Bangkok, where interns will support the EDPS in its mission to address complex environment and development challenges. Interns are expected to demonstrate a proactive attitude and a strong commitment to problem-solving. They will assist in the implementation of projects related to SINGG and RAPAP, which include conducting research, developing knowledge outputs, and facilitating regional cooperation platforms. The role is designed for individuals who are motivated to contribute to policy dialogue and implementation in the context of environmental sustainability and development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a variety of responsibilities, including assisting with data collection and analysis related to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) updates and net-zero pledges, as well as air quality management for each member State. They will be tasked with developing infographics and presentations on the SINGG project, green growth, climate action, and air quality management. Additionally, interns will support the creation of policy briefs, blogs, and newsletters that reflect current research and policy trends in related fields. They will also assist in organizing workshops, meetings, and international forums focused on climate action, air pollution, and environmental SDGs. Communication with member States, specialists, international institutes, and stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region will also be part of their duties.

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); or (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as environmental studies, natural sciences, applied sciences, engineering, international affairs, or other SDG-related disciplines. Preference will be given to candidates who are enrolled in a graduate (Master’s) program or higher.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes either a graduate degree or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree program in relevant fields such as environmental studies, natural sciences, applied sciences, engineering, or international affairs. Candidates with a focus on sustainable development goals (SDGs) are particularly encouraged to apply, as the internship is closely aligned with these themes.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in environmental and development issues. Experience in research, data analysis, or policy development in related fields would be advantageous. Interns are expected to be proactive and willing to engage in various tasks that support the EDPS's objectives.

Languages:
The job posting does not specify mandatory languages, but proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of the United Nations. Additional language skills relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to pay for application, interview, or training stages.