Political Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) is a key entity within the United Nations system, dedicated to promoting international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through disarmament initiatives. Established to address the challenges posed by weapons of mass destruction and conventional arms, UNODA plays a crucial role in facilitating dialogue among member states and advancing disarmament agendas. The organization operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to foster a safer world. UNODA's mission encompasses a wide range of issues, including nuclear disarmament, arms control, and the regulation of emerging technologies in warfare. With a diverse team of experts, UNODA is committed to implementing mandates from the General Assembly and the Security Council, ensuring that disarmament remains a priority on the international agenda.

Job Overview:
The Political intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position at the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) offers a unique opportunity for individuals interested in the intersection of science, technology, and international security. The intern will work within the Science, Technology and International Security Unit, contributing to the organization's efforts to address the implications of advancements in technology on global peace and security. This role is designed for individuals who are passionate about international relations and disarmament, and who wish to gain practical experience in a dynamic and impactful environment. The internship is expected to last for a duration of 3 to 6 months, starting approximately on July 1, 202

• Interns will be expected to work full-time, adhering to the official working hours of the UN, with the possibility of part-time or hybrid arrangements based on the intern's needs and the supervisor's approval. The internship is unpaid, and candidates should be prepared to manage their own living expenses during this period.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be involved in a variety of tasks that support the mission of the Science, Technology and International Security Unit. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the drafting and preparation of official documents, including summaries, talking points, speeches, and web content.
• Monitoring trends and developments related to emerging technologies and their implications for international peace and security.
• Conducting research on topics such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, uncrewed aerial vehicles, and lethal autonomous weapons systems.
• Supporting the organization and execution of conferences and intergovernmental meetings, ensuring that all logistical and administrative needs are met.
• Performing other related duties as required by the supervisor, which may vary based on the intern's skills and the needs of the unit.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) 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 for the UN Internship Programme, candidates should have a field of study that is closely related to the internship's focus. This ensures that interns can contribute meaningfully to the unit's work and gain relevant experience during their time at UNODA.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. This educational background is essential to ensure that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to engage with complex issues related to disarmament and international security.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and a keen interest in the fields of international relations, disarmament, or related areas. Experience in research, writing, or project support, whether through academic coursework or volunteer work, will be beneficial and may enhance the candidate's application.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory 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 asset and may provide candidates with a competitive advantage in the selection process.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States 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 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 is accessible to all qualified candidates.