Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy. UNEP's Ecosystems Division focuses on strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. The Abidjan Convention, established in 1981, provides a regional cooperation framework for the protection, management, and development of the marine and coastal environment of the south-eastern Atlantic region, covering a coastline of over 14,000 km from Mauritania to South Africa. The Convention area is home to ecologically significant ecosystems that are vital for fisheries, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of millions of coastal residents, but these ecosystems face increasing threats from climate change and human activities.

Job Overview:
The intern will work under the supervision of the relevant Programme Officer within UNEP's Ecosystems Division. The position involves conducting research and analysis on marine and coastal policy issues, including pollution, biodiversity, climate impacts, and the blue economy. The intern will monitor global and regional developments in ocean governance and environmental agreements, prepare policy briefs and summaries, support project development, and assist in preparing reports and materials for meetings. The role is designed to provide the intern with practical experience in environmental policy and project management, while contributing to the important work of UNEP in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct research and analysis on marine and coastal policy issues, including pollution, biodiversity, climate impacts, and the blue economy.
• Monitor global and regional developments in ocean governance and environmental agreements, including multilateral environmental agreements and the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).
• Prepare short policy briefs and summaries that highlight key trends and priorities in marine and coastal management.
• Support the development of projects and initiatives by drafting concept notes and proposals.
• Compile background information and technical inputs necessary for project design and partner consultations.
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and materials for meetings and workshops.
• Monitor project implementation and contribute to progress reporting.
• Support engagement with partners and stakeholders by preparing briefing materials and coordinating inputs.
• Contribute to documentation and record-keeping related to project activities. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Programme Officer.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application:

• Be enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental policy, environmental science, international relations, development studies, law, or a related field; or
• Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme; or
• Have graduated with a university degree within the last year.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in or have completed a relevant academic program. This includes graduate programs in environmental policy, environmental science, international relations, development studies, law, or related fields. Candidates who are in their final year of undergraduate studies or have graduated within the last year are also eligible to apply.

Experience:
The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently enrolled in a relevant academic program or have recently graduated. Therefore, specific prior work experience is not required, but familiarity with environmental issues and policies is beneficial. The intern should demonstrate a strong interest in marine and coastal management and the ability to conduct research and analysis effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's profile and ability to engage in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations. All costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Cote d'Ivoire may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.