Economic Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) plays a crucial role in bridging global policies with national actions in the economic, social, and environmental domains. Established to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, DESA operates with a mission to promote sustainable development through policy analysis, research, and capacity-building initiatives. The organization is involved in various global efforts, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the UN General Assembly in 201

• DESA's Economic Analysis and Policy Division (EAPD) specifically focuses on macroeconomic trends and provides recommendations to the Economic and Social Council, making it a vital player in international development discussions. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, contributing to global development efforts.

Job Overview:
The Economic intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position is designed for individuals who are passionate about economic and social development and are eager to contribute to the United Nations' mission. The intern will work under the supervision of an Economic Affairs Officer in the Economic Analysis and Policy Division, where they will engage in research and assist with various projects related to sustainable development. The internship is structured to last between four to six months, requiring a full-time commitment. The intern's primary responsibilities will include conducting background research, performing quantitative data analysis, and supporting capacity-building activities. This role is particularly focused on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the intern will have the opportunity to work closely with a team dedicated to addressing pressing global challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the objectives of the Economic Analysis and Policy Division. Key duties include:

• Conducting background research and literature reviews to prepare for outputs related to sustainable development.
• Drafting inputs for reports and presentations on economic and social development issues.
• Performing quantitative data analysis, including data collection from primary and secondary sources and visualizing data for better understanding.
• Assisting in the implementation of capacity-building activities, which may involve communication and outreach efforts.
• Supporting the team in daily operations, which includes servicing requests for information, developing presentations, and maintaining databases.
• Participating in stakeholder meetings and providing logistical support as needed. The intern will gain hands-on experience in research and policy analysis while contributing to meaningful projects.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams. Familiarity with statistical or econometric software such as Stata, EViews, or R is also required, along with experience in handling large datasets and descriptive statistics.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a relevant field such as economics, social sciences, international relations, or a related discipline. The internship is open to students in their final year of undergraduate studies, as well as those enrolled in or having completed graduate programs (Master’s or Ph.D.). Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree must be provided during the application process.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. Experience in research, data analysis, or project support in an academic or volunteer capacity will be beneficial. Familiarity with the workings of international organizations or development issues will also be advantageous.

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. The ability to communicate effectively in both English and another UN language will enhance the candidate's profile and may provide additional opportunities within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This 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 the country where the internship is based may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.