Intern - Women's Political Participation

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. The organization merges the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, focusing on the elimination of discrimination against women and girls, the empowerment of women, and achieving equality between women and men. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to ensure women's political participation and leadership in democratic processes and inclusive societies. The organization is committed to monitoring progress towards gender equality, particularly in decision-making roles, and works across various countries to implement its strategic initiatives.

Job Overview:
The intern will support the Leadership and Decision-Making Section of UN Women, focusing on women's political participation. This role involves assisting with legislative reviews, literature reviews, and data monitoring related to women's representation in local government and executive positions. The intern will work under the supervision of the Policy Specialist on Local Government, contributing to key initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in political processes. The position offers an opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of women's political participation, local governance, and electoral systems, while also engaging in the creation of knowledge products and policy work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include monitoring legislative changes and conducting reviews of government systems, electoral systems, and quotas. They will compile data on women's political participation, mapping information produced by Electoral Management Bodies. The intern will also review research literature related to women's political participation, including women's suffrage, and provide support for organizing meetings and activities focused on this area. This role is designed to enhance the intern's understanding of the complexities surrounding women's political participation and governance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of gender equality and political participation. They should demonstrate the ability to produce well-written policy and research documents, possess excellent communication skills, and be capable of working effectively within a multidisciplinary team. A keen interest in inclusive participation issues and gender equality is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Applicants should have university studies in disciplines such as Political Science, Social Sciences, Law, Human Rights, International Relations, Gender Studies, or other relevant fields. Candidates must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program, be in the final academic year of a first university degree program, have graduated within the last two years, or be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program that includes the internship as part of its requirements.

Experience:
The position is designed for individuals who are either currently enrolled in a relevant academic program or have recently graduated. While specific prior experience is not mandated, a background in research, policy analysis, or gender studies will be advantageous. The intern should be prepared to engage in various tasks that require analytical and organizational skills.

Languages:
Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral, are required. A working knowledge of another UN language is considered an advantage, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and resources.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, but interns not receiving financial support from other sources will receive a stipend from UN Women to help cover basic living costs during the internship. All applicants must submit a completed and signed P.11 form with their application. Due to the high volume of applications, only successful candidates will be contacted. Selected candidates will need to provide proof of enrollment in a valid health insurance plan, proof of school enrollment or degree, a scanned copy of their passport or national ID, and a copy of a valid visa if applicable. UN Women is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs.