Sustainable Development Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations. ESCAP was established to promote cooperation among its 53 member States and 9 associate members in addressing sustainable development challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. The organization serves as an inclusive intergovernmental platform that facilitates dialogue and collaboration among countries to achieve sustainable development goals. ESCAP's mission is to support member states in their efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The organization operates in various countries across the Asia-Pacific region, engaging with diverse stakeholders to foster sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Development Intern position is a full-time, unpaid internship that provides an opportunity for individuals 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 role involves assisting with the organization and implementation of the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD), which is a flagship meeting aimed at reviewing and following up on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Interns will engage in various tasks related to event coordination, stakeholder engagement, and communications, contributing to the overall mission of ESCAP in promoting sustainable development in the region. This internship is designed for individuals who are passionate about sustainable development and eager to learn about the workings of international organizations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties and responsibilities will include providing logistical and coordination support for meetings and events organized by the SDCSS, particularly for the APFSD. This involves assisting with registration, preparing presentations, and managing tasks related to servicing intergovernmental meetings. The intern will also prepare meetings with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and youth representatives, and will engage with online communities to support outreach activities. Additionally, the intern will design and create multimedia communications materials, update websites, and perform tasks related to strategic communications and public information. Research and analysis will also be a key component of the role, as the intern will synthesize data from forums and consultations into reports and presentations. The intern will support the team in day-to-day activities and may be assigned other ad-hoc duties as needed.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level), or have graduated with a university degree and be able to commence the internship within one year of graduation. Professional work experience is not required for participation in the United Nations Internship Programme, making this position accessible to students and recent graduates who are eager to gain experience in the field of sustainable development.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a background in a relevant field of study, such as international relations, environmental science, sustainable development, public policy, or a related discipline. The internship is open to students in their final year of undergraduate studies, as well as those pursuing graduate degrees, which indicates that a strong academic foundation in these areas is essential for success in the role.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in sustainable development and familiarity with the challenges faced in the Asia-Pacific region. Experience in intergovernmental meetings, international organizations, or related fields will be considered an asset, but is not mandatory. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, so a willingness to learn and engage with various stakeholders is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. 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. Proficiency in multiple languages can facilitate communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last for six months, starting from September 202

• It is important to note that the 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 Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants are advised to provide a complete online application, including a cover note and personal history profile, to be considered for the position.