Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was established in 1993 with the mission to promote and protect human rights globally. The organization operates in various countries and has a significant presence in international relations, focusing on the empowerment of individuals to realize their rights and ensuring that those responsible for upholding these rights are held accountable. OHCHR employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to addressing human rights issues and advocating for the rights of all people.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at OHCHR's Representation Office to the European Union in Brussels is designed for individuals who are passionate about human rights and eager to contribute to the organization's mission. Interns will support the Donor and External Relations (sub)Section, which plays a crucial role in resource mobilization and project management related to human rights initiatives. Interns will engage in various tasks that align with their academic background and interests, providing them with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of international relations and human rights advocacy. The internship is expected to last between 3 to 6 months, during which interns will be involved in research, report preparation, project implementation support, and participation in relevant meetings and consultations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a range of duties that include researching and preparing reports and briefing notes on donor intelligence matters, particularly in relation to fundraising opportunities for human rights initiatives. They will support project implementation by assisting colleagues with monitoring and reporting on selected projects, ensuring timely communication with headquarters or field units. Interns will also contribute to the preparation of high-quality project proposals and related documentation for negotiations concerning EU contributions to OHCHR. Additionally, they will represent OHCHR in meetings and consultations with partners, focusing on public presentations and other relevant engagements. Other duties may be assigned as needed by the Office Team, allowing interns to gain a comprehensive understanding of the organization's operations.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the United Nations Secretariat internship programme, applicants must be enrolled in the final academic year of a first-level university degree programme (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) or in a graduate school programme (Master's degree or equivalent) at the time of application. The preferred fields of study include international relations, business, marketing, journalism, communication, social sciences, or related disciplines. While no prior work experience is required, any previous internships or work experience with the UN, NGOs, or in the private sector will be considered an asset. Candidates should possess skills and knowledge that will benefit the United Nations during their internship.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed or be in the process of completing a first-level university degree (Bachelor's) or a graduate degree (Master's or higher) in a relevant field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international relations and human rights issues, which are central to the work of OHCHR.

Experience:
While no specific work experience is required for this internship, any previous experience in related fields, such as internships at the United Nations, non-governmental organizations, or relevant private sector roles, will be advantageous. This experience can provide valuable insights into the workings of international organizations and enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to OHCHR's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, and familiarity with another official UN language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be an additional advantage. Proficiency in multiple languages can enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. Therefore, candidates should be prepared to cover their own expenses related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living costs. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Belgium may need to secure 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. Furthermore, the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the application and selection process remains accessible to all qualified candidates.