Human Rights Right to Development Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a leading global organization dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights for all individuals. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in various countries around the world, working to uphold the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals committed to advancing human rights standards and addressing violations. OHCHR engages in numerous initiatives, including research, advocacy, and capacity-building efforts, to support the realization of human rights globally.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience within the Right to Development Section (RTDS) of the Development and Economic and Social Issues Branch (DESIB) at OHCHR. The intern will work closely with a Human Rights Officer, contributing to the implementation of the Secretary-General's and High Commissioner's mandates regarding the right to development. The position is full-time and in-person, with a flexible start date and duration, allowing for adjustments based on the successful candidate's needs. The intern will engage in research and analysis on critical topics related to international cooperation, trade, investment, and development finance, thereby gaining valuable insights into the workings of the UN and the complexities of human rights issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will undertake a variety of tasks to support the Human Rights Officer, including conducting in-depth research and analysis on topics pertinent to the right to development. This may involve exploring themes such as international cooperation, trade and investment, and development finance. Additionally, the intern will be responsible for preparing and servicing meetings, seminars, and workshops. This includes compiling background materials, drafting presentations, taking meeting notes, summarizing discussions, and coordinating with speakers and participants. The intern will also assist in organizing significant events such as the annual session of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Right to Development, sessions of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development, and the Human Rights Council Social Forum, among others.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have prior professional work experience. However, it is essential that candidates have a field of study closely related to the internship. Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. Proof of eligibility must be provided with the application, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field relevant to human rights, international relations, social sciences, or a related discipline. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the right to development and the broader context of human rights work.

Experience:
While no professional experience is required, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and a keen interest in human rights issues. Experience in research, analysis, or related activities through academic projects or volunteer work will be beneficial.

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 French is also required, as it is another working language. Additionally, proficiency in any other official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland 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 during the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.