Public Information Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key Secretariat Department of the United Nations, dedicated to strengthening international human rights mechanisms. Established to enhance equality and counter discrimination, the OHCHR plays a crucial role in combating impunity and reinforcing accountability and the rule of law. The organization integrates human rights into development and economic spheres, widens democratic spaces, and provides early warning and protection of human rights in situations of conflict, violence, and insecurity. The OHCHR operates globally, with a mission to protect the rights of all individuals, empower people to realize their rights, and assist those responsible for upholding these rights to ensure their implementation. The organization is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds and communities, including migrants and persons with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Public intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Information Intern position at the OHCHR is designed for students or recent graduates who are eager to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and public information. The intern will support the OHCHR in its mission to protect human rights globally. The role involves researching current human rights issues to aid in communication and public information outreach. Interns will work under the guidance of the Chief of Section and report to the respective Unit head. This internship is a full-time, unpaid engagement that provides a framework for students from diverse academic backgrounds to gain exposure to the work of the United Nations. The internship is expected to last for an initial period of three months, with the possibility of extension for a total of six months, subject to supervisor approval. The internship is set to commence between January 2026 and July 2026, allowing for flexibility in start dates.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The daily responsibilities of the Public Information Intern will vary based on the individual's background and the specific needs of the OHCHR. Key duties may include: conducting research on current human rights issues, assisting in the development of communication materials, supporting public information outreach efforts, creating video or graphic design items for social media posts, and collaborating with team members on various projects. The intern will also be expected to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to discussions on human rights topics, thereby enhancing their understanding of the UN's role in promoting and protecting human rights.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have recently completed such programs. No prior work experience is required for this internship, but candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Additionally, applicants should have skills that can benefit the UN during their internship, particularly in creating multimedia content for communication purposes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes being a student in the final year of a bachelor's degree program, or being enrolled in or having completed a master's or Ph.D. program. Applicants must provide proof of their current academic status and may need to submit an official certificate at a later stage to confirm their qualifications.

Experience:
No prior work experience is necessary to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. However, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or advanced coursework that would be beneficial to the OHCHR during their internship. The focus is on the applicant's potential to contribute to the organization's mission rather than previous employment history.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, while proficiency in another United Nations official language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be advantageous but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the UN before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process remains accessible and equitable.