Internship in Strategic Communications Section

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Secretariat is a vital part of the UN system, established to promote international cooperation and maintain peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. It operates globally, with a mission to address pressing global issues through diplomacy, humanitarian assistance, and development initiatives. The organization is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity among its staff, and it encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds. The UN Secretariat employs thousands of individuals across various departments and agencies, working in numerous countries to fulfill its mission.

Job Overview:
The internship in the Strategic Communications Section of the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical experience in communications and public outreach related to UN Peacekeeping. Interns will work under the supervision of the Public Information Officer and will be involved in various tasks that support the unit's mandate to enhance public outreach and maintain effective media engagement. The internship is flexible, allowing for remote, hybrid, or in-person work arrangements, and is expected to last for six months, starting as early as June 1, 202

• Interns will gain valuable insights into the workings of the UN and the role of strategic communications in peace operations, while also contributing to meaningful projects that promote the UN's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will assist the Strategic Communications Section with a variety of tasks, including: drafting responses to media inquiries and key messages; sourcing content for daily press briefings; drafting and editing communications products such as articles, fact sheets, brochures, newsletters, and meeting notes; planning and implementing public events like media briefings and press conferences; monitoring media trends and circulating reports; contributing creative ideas for projects and media stories; and performing any other duties as assigned by the supervisor. This role is crucial for supporting the UN's communication efforts and enhancing its public image.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Proficiency in standard word processing and software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential, along with the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field relevant to communications, public relations, international relations, or a related discipline. The educational background should align closely with the responsibilities of the internship, ensuring that interns have the foundational knowledge necessary to contribute effectively to the Strategic Communications Section.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, any relevant training or experience in communications, event planning, or public relations will be considered advantageous. Interns should demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the fast-paced environment of the UN, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and candidates should be aware that they will be responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to obtain a G-4 visa or other appropriate work authorization. The United Nations emphasizes that it does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and encourages female candidates to apply to promote gender balance within the organization. Interns must submit proof of visa and/or work authorization before starting the internship.