Intern for the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in the Philippines plays a pivotal role in leading the UN Country Team (UNCT) and representing the UN Secretary General. The RCO is dedicated to ensuring effective coordination and implementation of United Nations initiatives within the country. The office focuses on strategic planning, partnerships, policy and program advice, and advocacy, leveraging data-driven insights to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RCO is committed to fostering sustainable development and operates with a diverse team that emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration.

Job Overview:
This internship offers a unique opportunity for young professionals to gain first-hand work experience in a dynamic international team while supporting the sustainable development agenda in the Philippines. The selected candidate will contribute to the work of the United Nations in the Philippines for a period of three to six months. The internship is designed to provide technical support through economic and social research, policy analysis, and coordination and administrative assistance. Interns will gain hands-on experience in UN programming and multilateral engagement, contributing to the office’s core functions and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the RCO's mission. Key duties include:

• Research and Policy Analysis: - Support the collection and analysis of economic and social studies, papers, reports, and data relevant to the implementation of the Philippines 2024-2028 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) and broader development priorities. - Monitor and summarize recent economic and social trends, policy developments, and relevant news.
• Report Preparation: - Assist in the preparation of briefing notes, background notes, policy briefs, and other materials for internal and external use. - Help draft, edit, and format reports, presentations, and communication materials.
• Coordination and Administrative Support: - Support the organization of meetings, consultations, and events related to economic and social policy and programming. - Assist in organizing hybrid and digitally enabled coordination meetings, workshops, and events related to the RCO’s initiatives. - Support the preparation and drafting of actionable documentation (minutes, summaries, and follow-up action points) from meetings. The intern will report to the RCO Head of Office through the RCO Senior Economist and other team members as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Development Studies, Political Economy, Public Policy, or a related field. Additionally, strong analytical, research, and writing skills are essential. Familiarity with economic data sources and statistical tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS, or similar) is an advantage. Good knowledge of standard software applications (MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel) is required, and experience or proficiency with innovative and digital tools to enhance data analysis is an asset. Excellent communication and organizational skills are necessary, along with a demonstrated interest in development issues and the work of the United Nations. The ability to work in a multicultural environment and adapt to team dynamics is also important.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Economics, Development Studies, Political Economy, or Public Policy. Those who are currently enrolled in a graduate program or have completed a graduate degree are also encouraged to apply. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of economic and social policies and for contributing effectively to the RCO's initiatives.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in development issues and the workings of the United Nations. Any previous internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to economic and social research, policy analysis, or international relations will be beneficial and may enhance the candidate's application.

Languages:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Filipino are mandatory. Knowledge of Tagalog is desirable, as it will facilitate better communication and understanding of local contexts and issues. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in a multicultural environment such as the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time, unpaid opportunity, requiring interns to work Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., for a duration of 2 to 6 months. Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and 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 the country where the internship is undertaken may be required to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment 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 a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.