Internship at the United Nations

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 human rights, development, and humanitarian issues. The UN operates in multiple countries around the world, with its headquarters located in New York City. The organization employs thousands of staff members and engages numerous interns and volunteers to support its diverse initiatives.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at the United Nations offers a unique opportunity for individuals to gain insight into intergovernmental processes and contribute to the UN's mission of enhancing the participation of persons with disabilities in its meetings. Interns will work closely with the Department for General Assembly and Conference Services (DGACM), focusing on accessibility measures and supporting the implementation of the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy. This role is particularly significant as it coincides with major events such as the Meetings of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, providing interns with hands-on experience in a dynamic and impactful environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
During the internship, the intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at supporting persons with disabilities at UN meetings. Specific duties include assisting the DGACM Accessibility Center with various tasks related to accessibility services, planning and organizing accessibility provisions for meetings at UN Headquarters, engaging with persons with disabilities in collaboration with other UN departments, and contributing to the enhancement of accessibility measures for official meetings and events. Additionally, the intern may be assigned other duties by their supervisor as needed, allowing for a comprehensive learning experience.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent), or have graduated with a university degree within the past year. While no prior work experience is required, applicants should possess skills or training that would benefit the UN during their internship. Experience in supporting persons with disabilities is considered desirable, enhancing the intern's ability to contribute effectively to the organization's goals.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree program, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program. Alternatively, applicants who have completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program are also eligible to apply. Proof of enrollment or graduation will be required during the application process, ensuring that candidates meet the educational qualifications necessary for the internship.

Experience:
This internship does not require prior work experience, making it accessible to students and recent graduates. However, any relevant experience, particularly in supporting persons with disabilities or in similar roles, will be viewed favorably. The focus is on providing an opportunity for individuals to gain practical experience and contribute to the UN's mission without the barrier of extensive prior experience.

Languages:
Fluency in English, including reading, writing, and speaking, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of a second UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is desirable, as it enhances communication within the organization. Knowledge of sign language is also considered a valuable asset, reflecting the UN's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of five days per week, totaling 35 hours. It is important to note that the internship cannot be conducted remotely and must take place in-person at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants can apply without financial barriers.