GCR Policy Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which was established in 195

• The mission of UNHCR is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. The organization works to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating international responses to refugee crises and advocating for the rights of displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The GCR Policy Intern will be working within the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) Section at UNHCR HQ in Geneva, Switzerland. This internship is designed to provide support for the GCR policy process, which includes follow-up to the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review, preparations for the High Commissioner’s Dialogue, and the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention. The intern will engage in key policy areas such as GCR-GCM complementarity and support UNHCR's involvement in the GCM Multi-Partner Trust Fund. The role requires a proactive approach to assist in meaningful refugee participation and ensure internal and external policy alignment. The intern will be expected to draft reports, compile internal documentation, and contribute to stakeholder engagement and coordination efforts. This position is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in international relations, refugee policy, and humanitarian work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will have a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the preparation of outcome documents and materials related to the GCR; drafting and compiling internal reports on the GRF Progress Review; analyzing stakeholder inputs and mapping key statements; contributing to preparations for the International Migration Review Forum; tracking processes related to the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund; assisting in the conceptualization and development of the High Commissioner’s Dialogue; managing event preparations and coordinating with UNHCR and partners; conducting research on multilateral policy processes relevant to forced displacement; and assisting with resource mobilization efforts by contributing to donor proposals. The intern will also be expected to perform other tasks as needed to support the core work of the GCR Section, which may evolve based on team priorities and fundraising efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be either recent graduates who have completed their studies within two years of applying or current students in a graduate or undergraduate program from an accredited university. They should have completed at least two years of studies in a field relevant to UNHCR's work. Additionally, candidates must not have exhausted the maximum cumulative internship period with UNHCR, which is 8 months for full-time and 12 months for part-time internships. Proficiency in English is required, while a working knowledge of French and/or other UN languages is considered an asset. Strong computer literacy is essential, including the ability to conduct data analysis in Microsoft Excel, prepare reports and presentations, and manage data on Microsoft SharePoint.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree or ongoing studies in a relevant field such as international relations, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or law. Candidates should have a solid understanding of refugee issues and international humanitarian law, as well as familiarity with the workings of international organizations and the UN system.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience, ideally in multi-cultural settings or working with diverse actors. Previous experience with other UN agencies or direct experience working with refugees, including lived refugee experience, is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and possess strong organizational skills.

Languages:
English proficiency is mandatory for this position. A working level of French and/or other UN languages is advantageous and will enhance a candidate's application. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages is beneficial in the context of UNHCR's diverse and international environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is classified under the family staff member/affiliate type and is not home-based. The target start date for the internship is May 1, 2026, and the application deadline is April 27, 202

• The position does not require a functional clearance and is not remote. Interns will be expected to work full-time during the duration of the internship, which will provide them with valuable experience in the field of refugee policy and international cooperation.