Internship in the Equality and Non-Discrimination Branch

Job Posting Organization:
The internship positions are offered by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), specifically within the Equality and Non-Discrimination Branch (END) of the Thematic and Special Procedures Division (TSP). The OHCHR was established to promote and protect human rights globally, and it operates in various countries to ensure the full enjoyment of human rights for all individuals. The organization is committed to addressing issues related to equality and non-discrimination, particularly focusing on vulnerable groups such as older persons. The OHCHR employs a diverse workforce and engages with numerous stakeholders to fulfill its mission.

Job Overview:
The internship is designed to support the Secretariat of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Human Rights of Older Persons (IGWG HROP). The primary objective of the IGWG HROP is to draft an international legally binding instrument that aims to promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by older persons. Interns will play a vital role in assisting with various tasks that are essential for the functioning of the IGWG HROP. This includes preparing procedural notes, summarizing meetings, and assisting with logistics during meetings. Interns will also engage in historical research, media-based analysis, and statistical compilation, contributing to the overall mission of enhancing the rights of older persons.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a wide range of tasks that are crucial to the operations of the IGWG HROP. These responsibilities include: assisting in the preparation of procedural notes and other preparatory tasks; attending and summarizing meetings; assisting with logistics during meetings, including interactive presentations and virtual connections; maintaining databases of meetings; conducting historical research and examining precedents; undertaking media-based analysis and research; compiling statistics and designing charts, tables, and graphs; contributing to the drafting and preparation of notes, talking points, and other briefing materials; updating and redesigning websites; and performing other tasks as necessary to support the work of the IGWG HROP.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates 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 level or equivalent). While prior professional experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in human rights issues and a commitment to the values of the United Nations. This can be evidenced through academic achievements, volunteer work, or relevant extracurricular activities. Additionally, candidates should possess strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, and be proficient in standard software applications, particularly Microsoft 365 Products.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes either being currently enrolled in or having completed a graduate school programme or being in the final year of a first university degree programme. This indicates that candidates should have a solid academic foundation, preferably in fields related to human rights, international relations, law, or social sciences, which would provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the work of the IGWG HROP.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not a requirement for this internship, candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in human rights issues. This can be shown through academic achievements, volunteer work, or involvement in relevant extracurricular activities. The internship is primarily aimed at students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and international relations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered desirable, as it would enhance the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the organization and engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland 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. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process.