UN DESA Intern - Sustainable Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) is a vital part of the UN system, focusing on sustainable development and the promotion of economic and social progress. Established to support the intergovernmental process and provide substantive expertise, DESA plays a crucial role in coordinating the UN's efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization operates globally, engaging with member states and various stakeholders to foster inclusive and sustainable development. With a diverse workforce, DESA aims to address pressing global challenges through research, policy analysis, and capacity-building initiatives.

Job Overview:
The UN DESA Intern for Sustainable Development will be engaged in a comprehensive internship program designed to provide hands-on experience in the field of sustainable development within the UN framework. The intern will work closely with the Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development (OISC) and will be involved in various tasks that support the UN's operational activities. The internship is structured to last for six months, starting in January 2026, and is intended to be full-time, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week. The intern will gain exposure to official meetings, negotiations among member states, and the preparation of reports and research that are critical to the UN's mission. This role is ideal for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of international relations and sustainable development practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's daily responsibilities will vary based on the work program during the internship period. Key duties include conducting research on sustainable development topics, analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, and preparing visualizations and infographics. The intern will also support the development and implementation of surveys related to UN operational activities, assist in organizing high-level panels and seminars, and prepare summaries of outcomes from these events. Additionally, the intern will follow intergovernmental meetings in ECOSOC and the General Assembly, drafting summaries of discussions and consultations as needed. The role requires adaptability and the ability to respond to tasks on short notice, reflecting the dynamic nature of support provided to senior UN officials and member states.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific educational criteria to qualify for the internship. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint, is essential. Excellent drafting skills in English, the ability to synthesize information quickly, and the capacity to work independently with minimal supervision are also required. While prior professional experience is not mandatory, a relevant field of study is necessary to align with the internship's focus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree program, or they should have completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. This educational background should be closely related to the internship's focus on sustainable development and operational activities within the UN framework. Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree will need to be provided during the application process.

Experience:
The internship does not require prior professional work experience, making it accessible for students and recent graduates. However, candidates should have a strong academic background in a field relevant to sustainable development, international relations, or a related discipline. This internship is particularly suited for those who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in a global organization.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for the internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset. The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, and proficiency in these languages will enhance the intern's ability to perform effectively in the role.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their visa requirements with the UN prior to accepting the internship offer. The UN emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not charged at any stage.