Intern - Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 195

• Its mission is to promote the economic and social development of its member states, foster regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. The ECA has a significant presence in various countries across the continent, with its Sub-regional Office for Eastern Africa located in Kigali, Rwanda. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by African nations and works collaboratively with various stakeholders to implement sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is designed for individuals who are eager to gain practical experience in the field of economic affairs, particularly in the context of sustainable development in Eastern Africa. Interns will work under the supervision of the Director of the Sub-regional Office for Eastern Africa and will be involved in a variety of tasks that contribute to the overall mission of the ECA. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates who are looking to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting, engage with professionals in the field, and develop their skills in research, analysis, and communication. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in meaningful projects that address pressing economic issues in the region, thereby enhancing their understanding of the complexities of economic development in Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns at the ECA will be responsible for a range of duties that support the organization's objectives. These include producing analytical, quantitative, and qualitative elements necessary for the preparation of documents and reports. Interns will conduct research and analyze topics related to sustainable economic development in Eastern Africa, draft and edit publications, papers, and other documents, and liaise with stakeholders on key development topics. Additionally, they will support the organization of meetings and events, assist with outreach activities, and participate in the day-to-day operational tasks of the Sub-regional Office. This may involve servicing requests for information, developing presentations, and liaising with partner organizations. Administrative tasks may also be assigned as needed.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must be enrolled in a degree program at a graduate school (second university degree or higher) or have completed at least four years of full-time studies at a university or equivalent institution towards the completion of a degree, particularly in fields related to economics, social sciences, or international relations. While professional work experience is not required, candidates should possess knowledge of MS Office and demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a graduate program or have completed a minimum of four years of full-time university studies. This educational background should ideally be in a field relevant to economic affairs, such as economics, international relations, or development studies. The internship is designed to complement academic learning with practical experience, making it suitable for students who are looking to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Experience:
This internship does not require prior professional work experience, making it accessible for students and recent graduates. The focus is on providing an opportunity for individuals to gain hands-on experience in the field of economic affairs, particularly in relation to sustainable development in Eastern Africa. Interns will be expected to demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the working environment of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders within the organization and the region. Proficiency in additional languages may also be beneficial, depending on the specific tasks assigned during the internship.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially remunerated, meaning that they will not receive a salary or stipend for their work. All costs related to 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 Rwanda may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process remains accessible and equitable.