Intern - Global Health Security

Job Posting Organization:
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 191 member National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Established to provide humanitarian assistance and support during crises, the IFRC operates under the guiding principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. The organization is committed to delivering on Strategy 2030, which emphasizes response, resilience, and respect. With its headquarters in Geneva, the IFRC has five regional offices located in Nairobi (Africa), Panama (Americas), Kuala Lumpur (Asia Pacific), Budapest (Europe), and Beirut (MENA), along with various representation offices, service centers, and delegations worldwide. The IFRC maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any conduct that contradicts its humanitarian mission, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and adheres to strict child safeguarding principles.

Job Overview:
This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and health systems strengthening within an international humanitarian organization. The intern will be involved in various technical, operational, and policy aspects of the IFRC's support to National Societies and their communities. The focus will be on preparing for, preventing, detecting, and responding to public health emergencies, particularly under the Global Health Security Pillar, which encompasses five key areas: epidemic and pandemic preparedness and readiness, emergency medical response, community health workforce, surveillance and screening, and health policy. The intern will contribute to the overall mission of the Health and Care Department by supporting initiatives that enhance global health security.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for supporting data collection related to IFRC Global Health Security priorities, including epidemic and pandemic preparedness, community health workforce, surveillance and screening, emergency medical response, and health policy. Additional responsibilities include assisting in the preparation of presentations, meeting summaries, and concept notes, as well as contributing to the documentation, synthesis, and dissemination of good practices, lessons learned, case studies, and experiences from National Societies. The intern will also assist in maintaining information management systems, trackers, and repositories related to Global Health Security initiatives and projects. Furthermore, the intern will help develop communication and advocacy materials that emphasize the role of Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies in global health security. Participation in departmental meetings, learning opportunities, and cross-functional initiatives will provide exposure to IFRC health programming and humanitarian operations. The intern may also undertake other tasks and special projects that align with the objectives of the Health and Care Department and the Global Health Security Pillar. All staff members are expected to work actively towards achieving the Federation Secretariat’s goals, abide by the Red Cross and Red Crescent principles, and perform any other work-related duties assigned by their line manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a university or have graduated recently (within one year from the date of hiring) in a field compatible with IFRC activities. Preferred qualifications include experience with research and the development of summary reports, as well as experience working in a multicultural environment. Knowledge of health topics supported by the Red Cross and Red Crescent is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes being currently enrolled in a university program or having graduated within the last year in a relevant field that aligns with the activities of the IFRC. This could encompass areas such as public health, international relations, humanitarian studies, or other related disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience, preferably in research and report writing, as well as familiarity with working in a multicultural environment. This experience will help the intern navigate the complexities of global health security and contribute effectively to the IFRC's initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, having a good command of another official IFRC language, such as French, Spanish, or Arabic, is preferred and would be beneficial for communication within the organization and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The internship is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience within the Health and Care Department of the IFRC. It is essential for applicants to submit their applications in English only. The specific details regarding the duration of the internship, compensation, and whether it is a full-time or part-time position were not provided in the job description.