UNEP Programme Support Public Policy Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and was established in 197

• It operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental sustainability and policy advocacy. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Programme Support Public Policy Intern will be positioned at the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) in Montreal, which is administered by UNEP. This internship is designed to provide the intern with practical experience in environmental policy and research, particularly in relation to the synergies across the Rio Conventions. The intern will be expected to conduct thorough research and analysis of national policy instruments and recent Conference of the Parties (COP) decisions, preparing analytical products and drafting inputs that will support various initiatives. The internship is unpaid and has a duration of three months, starting on September 7, 2026, with the possibility of extension up to six months. The intern will work under the supervision of the Programme Management Officer and will be expected to contribute significantly to the team's efforts in promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting research and analysis of national policy instruments such as National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets, and national adaptation plans; reviewing and analyzing recent COP decisions to identify mandates and provisions relevant to enhanced cooperation among the Rio Conventions; preparing analytical summaries, briefing notes, and comparative matrices that map areas of convergence and potential gaps across the conventions; supporting activities under the Joint Liaison Group (JLG) of the Rio Conventions, including background research and documentation; assisting in drafting inputs for reports and presentations; and supporting the organization of workshops and consultations related to synergies among the conventions. The intern will work five days a week, totaling 35-40 hours, under the guidance of a staff member.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced university degree studies (Master's or PhD) in fields such as environmental policy, international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, international relations, environmental sciences, climate change studies, sustainable development, or natural resource management. Applicants must demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. Additionally, candidates should have strong computer literacy in standard software applications and the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential.

Educational Background:
Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent); or have graduated with a university degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental policy and the workings of international organizations.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have a strong academic background in a relevant field. This internship is particularly suited for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience in environmental policy and research, and who are eager to contribute to the work of the United Nations in promoting sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN language, such as Arabic, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered desirable. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding), while knowledge is defined as a rating of 'confident' in two of the four areas.

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 Canada may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.