Intern - Human Rights Unit

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, making it a desirable workplace for those dedicated to child welfare.

Job Overview:
The internship aims to support UNICEF’s engagement with human rights mechanisms in Geneva, including the Human Rights Council, the Committee on the Rights of the Child, and the Universal Periodic Review. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Geneva-based Human Rights Specialist and will be involved in various tasks such as following meetings of the Human Rights Council, preparing internal notes, reviewing background reports, and supporting the development of guidance and tools for country offices. This position provides an excellent opportunity for the intern to gain direct exposure to international human rights mechanisms and contribute to UNICEF’s efforts in promoting child rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Follow meetings of the Human Rights Council and prepare internal notes to be shared across UNICEF.
• Review Human Rights Council background reports for mentions of child rights.
• Attend sessions of the Committee on the Rights of the Child and prepare internal notes for UNICEF country offices.
• Support the Human Rights Unit in developing guidance and tools on children’s civil and political rights.
• Attend sessions of other treaty bodies and take notes as required.
• Participate in other relevant meetings and take notes as necessary.
• Assist in additional activities as required by the Human Rights Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Ongoing education with a strong interest in Human Rights, particularly Child Rights.
• Familiarity with international human rights mechanisms.
• Fluency and excellent writing skills in English; knowledge of another UN language, especially French and/or Spanish, is an asset.
• Research experience and skills.
• Strong analytical and conceptual thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Legal expertise is considered an asset.
• Prior experience with permanent missions is advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must provide proof of enrollment in a university program or proof of completion within the past two years. A strong academic performance is expected, as evidenced by the most recent official transcript submitted with the application.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant research experience and familiarity with international human rights mechanisms. While prior experience with permanent missions is considered an asset, it is not mandatory. The focus is on candidates who demonstrate a strong interest in child rights and human rights advocacy.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent writing skills required. Knowledge of another UN language, particularly French and/or Spanish, is considered an asset and beneficial for the role.

Additional Notes:
The internship does not guarantee employment at the end of the term. Selected candidates must provide proof of valid health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the internship. UNICEF will not be responsible for any costs arising from accidents or illness incurred during the internship. The organization emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. UNICEF encourages flexible working arrangements and has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims of the United Nations.