Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Regional Information Centre (UNRIC) in Brussels is part of the global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs). Established to promote public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations, UNRIC disseminates information materials to local audiences in their languages and engages with various partners including civil society, media, and public institutions. The Centre operates in 22 countries and works in 13 languages, with a team of nine Desk Officers managing designated areas. UNRIC's mission is to communicate the values, history, and mandate of the United Nations, contributing to a more peaceful, fair, and sustainable world. It also provides communications support to UN agencies in Brussels and collaborates with European Union institutions.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNRIC is designed for individuals who are eager to gain practical experience in the field of communications within an international organization. Interns will work under the direct supervision of a Desk Officer and will be involved in various tasks that support the Centre's mission. The internship is full-time, requiring interns to work five days a week for a total of 35 hours. The role offers a unique opportunity to engage with the UN's communication strategies and to contribute to the dissemination of information about the UN's work in various countries. Interns will assist in writing and translating articles for the UNRIC website, updating social media accounts, and liaising with media and civil society organizations. This position is ideal for those who are passionate about international relations and the work of the United Nations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns at UNRIC will have a diverse set of responsibilities that include: assisting in writing and translating articles for the UNRIC website; updating and managing social media accounts, including drafting and editing content; conducting media monitoring and liaising with relevant media outlets; maintaining daily communication with civil society, academia, and NGOs in the relevant countries; assisting in the organization of events related to the UN's work; and performing other duties as assigned by the Desk Officer. This role is designed to provide interns with hands-on experience in the field of communications and public information, while also allowing them to contribute to the UN's mission.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for an internship with the United Nations, applicants must meet specific educational requirements. They must either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should be computer literate in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, along with a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds are also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed or be currently enrolled in a graduate program or the final year of an undergraduate program. This educational background ensures that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the UNRIC's objectives. A focus on international relations, communications, or a related field is advantageous, as it aligns with the mission and activities of the United Nations.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory for this internship, any relevant experience in communications, public relations, or international relations will be considered an asset. Interns should demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the fast-paced environment of the United Nations, as well as a commitment to the values and goals of the organization.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Additionally, fluency in one or more of the following languages is required: Danish, Dutch, French, Greek, Italian, Norwegian (Bokmål and Nynorsk), or Portuguese. Proficiency in multiple languages is highly valued and can enhance the intern's ability to engage with diverse audiences.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Belgium may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The internship duration is initially set for four months, with the possibility of extension up to six months, depending on departmental needs and intern availability. The position may be in-person, remote, or hybrid, providing flexibility in the work arrangement.