UN Political Intern

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. The UN operates in various fields including humanitarian assistance, development, and human rights, with a workforce of over 44,000 employees across the globe. The organization is committed to addressing global challenges and fostering international collaboration to achieve sustainable development goals. The UN has regional offices and specialized agencies that work in different areas, ensuring a comprehensive approach to international issues.

Job Overview:
The UN Political Intern position is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in international relations and political affairs within the United Nations framework. The internship is based in the Europe and Central Asia Division of the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations (DPPA-DPO) at UN Headquarters in New York. The intern will be involved in various activities that support the work of the Eastern Europe team, which focuses on political and security developments in the region. The role is expected to provide insights into the functioning of the UN and the dynamics of international diplomacy, while also contributing to the organization's mission of maintaining peace and security. The internship is structured to be full-time, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week, although there is flexibility for part-time or remote arrangements based on the intern's needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of tasks that support the Eastern Europe team’s objectives. Key duties include monitoring media reports and political developments in the region, conducting background research and analysis on relevant issues, and following meetings of the UN Security Council and General Assembly. The intern will also attend various meetings and events, preparing summary notes and providing logistical assistance in organizing these gatherings. Additionally, the intern will prepare briefing materials for senior officials and perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the team’s operations.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific educational criteria to qualify for the internship. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not a requirement, candidates should have a field of study closely related to the internship. Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree must be provided during the application process.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, which includes 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. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of international relations and the specific functions of the UN. Applicants are required to submit documentation that verifies their academic status and qualifications.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates are expected to have a strong academic background in fields related to political science, international relations, or similar disciplines. This internship is particularly suited for those who are looking to gain hands-on experience in a global organization and are eager to learn about the workings of international diplomacy and peacekeeping efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is a requirement 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, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week, although part-time options (20 hours per week) and remote work arrangements may be available. The expected duration of the internship is six months, starting as early as October 5, 202

• The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Applicants must be aware that they cannot have previously served as an intern for a total of six months in the UN Common System. Additionally, candidates who are related to current UN staff members are ineligible for this internship. All applicants must submit a complete online application, including a motivational statement detailing their availability, degree title, graduation date, and reasons for their candidacy.