Intern - Support to the UNCT on Youth Engagement, Volunteerism and Advocacy

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and to foster social and economic development. The UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a focus on addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The organization employs thousands of staff and collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its goals. The UN's initiatives, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aim to create a better world for future generations by empowering individuals and communities, particularly youth, to take an active role in sustainable development.

Job Overview:
This internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to support the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Skopje, North Macedonia, specifically focusing on youth engagement and participation in UN initiatives. The intern will play a crucial role in advancing the Future Makers Programme, which aims to empower young people as active contributors to sustainable development. The intern will work closely with various stakeholders, including youth organizations, educational institutions, and civil society partners, to facilitate meaningful youth participation in decision-making processes and community actions. The position requires strong organizational skills, effective communication abilities, and a passion for youth advocacy and sustainable development. The intern will assist in coordinating activities, workshops, and events that promote volunteerism and civic engagement among young people, thereby contributing to the overall mission of the UN in fostering a culture of volunteerism and youth leadership.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the coordination and implementation of the Future Makers Programme; communicating with participants, mentors, and partners; organizing meetings and preparing notes and presentations; assisting in the organization of youth engagement activities, workshops, and events; developing and implementing volunteerism initiatives; mobilizing youth participation in UN campaigns; maintaining regular communication with youth participants and partners; supporting advocacy efforts related to youth participation; preparing communication materials and social media content; reviewing and analyzing documents related to youth development; maintaining databases and contact lists; organizing consultations with stakeholders; and drafting summaries and reports as needed. The intern will also be expected to perform other tasks as assigned by management, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to contribute to the team's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). Previous involvement in youth organizations, volunteer initiatives, or civil society activities related to sustainable development is highly desirable. While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to youth development, social sciences, communications, economics, education, international relations, or sustainable development is preferred. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Teams, MS Excel, and Google Workspace applications, as well as familiarity with communication tools like WhatsApp.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a relevant educational background, which may include being a student in the final year of a bachelor's degree program, or having completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. The educational focus should ideally align with areas such as youth development, social sciences, communications, or international relations, reflecting the nature of the internship and the responsibilities involved.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates are encouraged to have some level of engagement in youth initiatives, volunteer programs, or community activities. Experience in organizing youth activities, events, or campaigns will be considered an asset, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the role and the objectives of the UN.

Languages:
Fluency in English is a mandatory requirement for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UN. Knowledge of Macedonian and Albanian is considered desirable, as it may enhance the intern's ability to engage with local youth and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This internship is expected to last from August 17, 2026, to February 16, 2027, and is an in-person position based in Skopje. Interns will not receive financial remuneration from the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of North Macedonia to obtain the necessary visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. The UN emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.