Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established in December 1950 with the mission to save lives, protect rights, and build a better future for asylum seekers, refugees, returnees, internally displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, leveraging its extensive experience to provide protection and care for millions of individuals who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution. The organization plays a crucial role in addressing the complex challenges associated with migration and refugee movements, particularly in regions like Italy, Malta, and the Holy See, which are strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. UNHCR's Multi-Country Office in Italy oversees operations in these areas, focusing on diverse asylum systems and legal frameworks that impact refugee protection. The organization is actively involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the living conditions of migrants and refugees, including the Regional Development and Protection Programme for North Africa (RDPP NA), which seeks to enhance the capacity of third countries to manage migration and asylum effectively.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to support the External Relations Unit at UNHCR, specifically in relation to the implementation and coordination of the Regional Development and Protection Programme for North Africa (RDPP NA). The intern will play a vital role in contributing to the monitoring and execution of activities associated with the programme. This includes assisting in the preparation of reports, deliverables, and communication outputs that are essential for the programme's visibility and effectiveness. The intern will also engage with various institutional stakeholders and consortium members to ensure smooth coordination and collaboration in the implementation of RDPP NA activities. This internship offers a unique opportunity for individuals to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting, gaining insights into migration governance and international cooperation on asylum matters, while receiving on-the-job training and coaching.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the direct supervision of the Project Coordination Officer, the intern will be responsible for a range of tasks, including: supporting the development, implementation, and monitoring of activities under the RDPP NA; ensuring timely preparation and submission of reports, analytical summaries, background notes, and communication outputs related to the programme; coordinating with RDPP NA Consortium members and relevant institutional stakeholders, including preparing meeting materials and follow-up documentation; organizing meetings, workshops, and programme-related events; maintaining organized records and documentation related to RDPP NA activities and deliverables; and contributing to the broader activities and functioning of the External Relations Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess essential qualifications, including university studies in Law, Human Rights, Political Science, Social Science, Community Development/Social Work, or related fields. Fluency in English (B2 level) and Italian (C2 level) is required, along with computer literacy in MS Office. Strong drafting and communication skills, teamwork abilities, organizational skills, and the capacity to work autonomously and under pressure are also essential. Desirable qualifications include previous experience in asylum, migration governance, and refugee protection, as well as experience in drafting reports and supporting stakeholder engagement.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be either recent graduates (having completed their studies within two years of applying) or current students in a graduate or undergraduate program from an accredited university or higher education facility. Additionally, candidates should have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies in a relevant field related to UNHCR's work.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a foundational level of experience, particularly in areas related to asylum, migration governance, and refugee protection. Previous working experiences in these fields are considered advantageous, especially if they involve drafting reports, engaging with stakeholders, or organizing events.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Italian is mandatory, with English being the official working language of UNHCR in Italy. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's profile for the internship.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time internship role with working hours from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday, totaling 37.5 hours per week. Interns who do not receive financial support from an outside party will receive an allowance to help cover food, local transportation, and living expenses. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in Italy, and only applications completed in English will be considered. The selection process may include interviews and written tests for short-listed candidates. UNHCR is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, ensuring an inclusive working environment. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, and successful candidates will undergo mandatory clearance checks prior to receiving an offer.