Sustainable Development Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is a regional commission of the United Nations established to promote cooperation among its 53 member States and 9 associate members. ESCAP focuses on addressing sustainable development challenges in the Asia-Pacific region, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration. The organization aims to support member states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. ESCAP has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, engaging with various stakeholders to foster sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Development Intern position is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the field of sustainable development within the United Nations framework. The intern will work under the supervision of a Sustainable Development Officer in the Sustainable Development and Countries in Special Situations Section (SDCSS). The internship will provide an opportunity to engage directly in the implementation of the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD), a flagship meeting of ESCAP. Interns will assist in various tasks related to event organization, stakeholder engagement, and communications, contributing to the follow-up and review processes of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The role is full-time and unpaid, requiring a commitment of five days per week for a duration of six months, starting in September 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: providing logistical and coordination support for meetings and events organized by the SDCSS, particularly for the APFSD; assisting with logistics before and during meetings, including registration and presentations; preparing meetings with various stakeholders; monitoring and engaging with online communities; supporting the delivery and documentation of training and capacity development initiatives; designing and creating multimedia and social media outreach materials; updating and maintaining relevant websites; performing tasks related to strategic communications and public information; researching and analyzing information from diverse sources; assisting in background research for the APFSD and Sustainable Development Goals; and supporting the team in day-to-day activities and other ad-hoc duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent); or have graduated with a university degree and must commence the internship within one year of graduation. Professional work experience is not required for participation in the program, making it accessible for students and recent graduates.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be enrolled in or have completed a degree program in a relevant field such as international relations, sustainable development, environmental studies, social sciences, or a related discipline. The internship is particularly suited for those who are in their final year of undergraduate studies or pursuing a graduate degree.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required, any relevant experience in sustainable development, international relations, or participation in intergovernmental meetings will be considered an asset. The internship is aimed at students or recent graduates who are eager to learn and contribute to the work of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The 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 Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The internship is expected to last for six months, starting in September 202

• Applicants must submit a completed online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile, and should outline their availability, interest in the UN internship program, and any relevant experience in their motivation statement. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further consideration.