Intern - Data Protection and Privacy

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Office of Data Protection and Privacy (ODPP) is part of the United Nations, an international organization founded in 1945 with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries. The ODPP focuses on ensuring the protection of personal data and privacy rights within the UN system. The organization operates in multiple countries worldwide, employing thousands of individuals dedicated to various global issues, including human rights, development, and humanitarian efforts.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to be part-time, with an expected duration of 3-6 months. The UN Office of Data Protection and Privacy (ODPP) is looking for highly motivated interns who are eager to gain professional experience in the field of Data Protection and Privacy within an international organization. Interns will have the opportunity to supplement their academic knowledge and skills while working in a multicultural intergovernmental environment. Under the supervision of the Data Protection and Privacy Officer, interns will be assigned to various projects and tasks that will allow them to apply and further develop their knowledge in this critical area. It is essential for candidates to familiarize themselves with the functions and mandate of the ODPP as outlined in ST/SGB/2024/3, ensuring that their interests and qualifications align with the internship's requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a diverse range of responsibilities that encompass many aspects of Data Protection and Privacy work. These responsibilities may include, but are not limited to: assisting in conducting research on data protection and privacy laws, Secretary General’s Bulletins, UN Resolutions, and other relevant areas; reviewing documents, instruments, and other materials; drafting and preparing official documents and templates; attending conferences and meetings, taking notes, and assisting in servicing these events; working on websites and presentations; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervising officer. This role is designed to provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of the operational aspects of data protection and privacy within the UN framework.

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); (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 must have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams. The ability to draft news articles and social media posts is desirable, as is the capability to design surveys and polls.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in or have completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided with the application, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage. This educational background ensures that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge to contribute effectively to the ODPP's work.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This could include studies in law, international relations, data protection, privacy, or related fields. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, making it suitable for students or recent graduates looking to enhance their understanding of data protection and privacy in an international context.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as English 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. Proficiency in multiple languages is beneficial in the multicultural environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, meaning that 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 the country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.