Intern - Drug Control and Crime Prevention

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Established in 1997, UNODC operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to assist Member States in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, organized crime, corruption, and terrorism. The organization aims to promote justice and the rule of law, and to support the implementation of international drug control treaties. UNODC employs a diverse workforce of over 2,500 staff members, including experts in law enforcement, criminal justice, and public health, working collaboratively to address complex global challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Civil Society Unit (CSU) of the UNODC offers a unique opportunity for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in the field of drug control and crime prevention. Interns will be involved in various aspects of the Civil Society Global Programme (GLOU68), which focuses on engaging non-governmental stakeholders in anti-corruption efforts and addressing drug-related issues. The internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in project implementation, communication strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Interns will work closely with experienced professionals and contribute to meaningful initiatives aimed at enhancing the visibility and impact of CSU activities. This full-time internship requires a commitment of 40 hours per week and is expected to last between four to six months, starting in October 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will undertake a variety of tasks that may include: contributing to the implementation of Programme GLOU68 by participating in project cycles, drafting concept notes, and assisting with reporting; supporting the development of communication materials such as flyers and web stories to enhance visibility during related events; attending and taking notes at meetings, conferences, and events; assisting in the preparation and organization of CSU activities; conducting research on relevant topics; and performing other tasks as assigned by the supervising staff member. This role is integral to the success of the CSU's initiatives and provides interns with the opportunity to develop their skills in a professional setting.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have recently completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have recently completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Additionally, candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, along with a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. The ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is also essential, showcasing a willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions and views. While professional work experience is not required, applicants should have a field of study closely related to the internship.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have recently completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided with the application, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage. This educational background ensures that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge to contribute effectively to the CSU's initiatives.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, applicants should demonstrate relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include involvement in projects, research, or volunteer work related to drug control, crime prevention, or civil society engagement. The focus is on candidates who can showcase their understanding of the issues at hand and their ability to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French or Spanish, is considered an advantage. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance the intern's contributions to the CSU's activities and facilitate engagement with diverse stakeholders.

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 Austria may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the UNODC before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all qualified candidates.