Internship at the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) was established in 1964 and is a part of the United Nations Secretariat. Its mission is to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, providing technical assistance and policy advice to developing nations.

Job Overview:
The internship opportunity at UNCTAD is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical experience in the field of sustainable institutional investment. Interns will work full-time, either in-person in Geneva or remotely, for a duration of six months starting in May. The position is unpaid, and interns are expected to cover their own travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns will be involved in various activities related to UNCTAD's mission, including research, organizing conferences, and providing technical assistance to developing countries. The internship aims to enhance the educational experience of participants while contributing to the organization's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will assist in organizing significant events such as the 2026 UNCTAD Future Investment Conference and the World Investment Forum 202

• Responsibilities include outreach and communication with speakers and stakeholders, preparing conference documents, and coordinating logistical issues with hosts. Interns will also support research on sustainable investment and impact investment, contributing to reports and publications. Additional duties may be assigned as required, providing a comprehensive exposure to UNCTAD's operations and activities.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a second-level university degree (master's or equivalent) or be in the final year of a first-level university degree program (minimum bachelor's). A background in economics, sustainable development, international investment, or international business is essential. Interns should demonstrate computer literacy in standard software applications and possess a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, along with a commitment to its ideals. No prior work experience is required, but relevant academic training is necessary.

Educational Background:
To qualify for the internship, candidates must have a relevant educational background, specifically in fields related to economics, sustainable development, international investment, or international business. Enrollment in a master's program or the final year of a bachelor's program is required, ensuring that interns have the necessary theoretical knowledge to contribute effectively to UNCTAD's work.

Experience:
While no prior work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the internship's focus. The program is designed for students or recent graduates, emphasizing the importance of educational experience over professional experience.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, given that it is another working language of the UN Secretariat. Interns should be able to communicate effectively in both spoken and written forms.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns. Interns must ensure they have the appropriate visa and work authorization if they are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland. The internship is full-time, requiring a commitment of 40 hours per week. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any fraudulent requests for personal information.