Disaster Risk Reduction Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the designated focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts to reduce disaster risk. The organization aims to ensure coherence among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations, regional organizations, and partners in both developed and developing countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Disaster Risk Reduction and has over 140 staff members located at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in regional offices worldwide. The organization plays a crucial role in guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, supporting regional and national implementation of the framework, and catalyzing action to strengthen resilience and reduce disaster risk. UNDRR collaborates closely with UN Member States and a diverse range of stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the science and technology community. This internship is specifically located in the UNDRR Regional Office for Africa, providing a unique opportunity for interns to engage in meaningful work related to disaster risk reduction.

Job Overview:
The Disaster Risk Reduction Intern will be involved in supporting two main workstreams: Recovery Readiness and Sendai Framework Monitoring. The intern will report directly to the Programme Management Officer responsible for these areas. The internship is designed to provide practical experience in disaster risk reduction, with a focus on recovery readiness and monitoring the Sendai Framework. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, under the supervision of a staff member, contributing to various projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing disaster resilience and recovery planning. This role is particularly suited for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in the field of disaster risk management and contributing to the UN's efforts in this critical area.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the Recovery Readiness Workstream by assisting in the compilation and analysis of recovery readiness assessments, case studies, and country-level recovery frameworks.
• Helping organize regional workshops, webinars, and technical consultations focused on resilient recovery and disaster recovery planning.
• Contributing to knowledge management by organizing documentation, technical resources, and best practices related to disaster recovery and resilience.
• Tracking progress of recovery-related projects and partnerships, maintaining internal monitoring tools, and supporting reporting processes.
• Assisting in communication and outreach activities related to recovery readiness initiatives, including drafting briefing notes, summaries, and knowledge products.
• Supporting regional activities related to monitoring and reporting progress under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–203
• Assisting with data compilation and analysis related to SFM reporting by Member States in Africa.
• Coordinating with national focal points on disaster loss data and reporting on Sendai Framework targets and indicators.
• Contributing to the organization and management of datasets, dashboards, and internal monitoring tools. 1
• Preparing analytical summaries, briefing notes, and background materials related to disaster risk reduction monitoring.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or
• Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Preferred fields of study include disaster risk management, environmental studies, development studies, statistics, data science, public policy, or related fields. While no professional work experience is required, a relevant academic background in disaster risk reduction, data analysis, or related fields is essential for this position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate school programme or the final academic year of a first university degree programme. The preferred fields of study are those that relate directly to disaster risk management, environmental studies, development studies, statistics, data science, public policy, or other related disciplines. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of disaster risk reduction and the analytical skills needed for the role.

Experience:
No professional work experience is required for this internship. However, relevant academic background in disaster risk reduction, data analysis, or related fields is necessary. This internship is designed for individuals who are either currently studying or have recently completed their studies, providing them with an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment, with interns expected to work five days per week. Interns are responsible for their own costs and arrangements related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is free from financial burdens.