UN Intern - Political Affairs

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 worldwide. The organization is headquartered in New York City and has offices in Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi, and other locations around the globe.

Job Overview:
The UN Intern in Political Affairs will play a crucial role in supporting the Middle East Division by monitoring political, socio-economic, and humanitarian developments in the Middle East region. The intern will be expected to conduct research and provide analysis on policy issues that intersect peace, security, and development. This position requires active participation in drafting various documents such as notes, background papers, and speeches that address peace and security issues pertinent to the Middle East. The intern will also engage in meetings and consultations with other divisions and UN entities, contributing to the collaborative efforts of the organization. This internship is designed to provide practical experience in the field of political affairs while fostering a deeper understanding of the UN's operations and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: monitoring relevant developments in the Middle East, conducting research and analysis on policy issues, drafting notes and background papers, contributing to speeches and other materials for MED leadership, participating in working groups and meetings, taking notes during proceedings, providing support for meetings convened by the Middle East Division, and assisting Special Political Missions and UN Country Teams in non-mission settings. The intern may also be required to perform other related duties as assigned, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet at least 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). Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, a keen interest in the UN's work, and the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. No prior work experience is necessary, as the internship is designed to benefit from the applicant's education and skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a graduate degree or be in the final year of their undergraduate studies. This educational background should ideally be in fields related to political science, international relations, or a similar discipline that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required for this internship. However, candidates should have relevant academic training or coursework that can contribute to the UN's mission during their internship. The focus is on the applicant's educational background and skills rather than professional experience.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this internship. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as both languages are used within the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in additional languages may also be beneficial, depending on the specific duties assigned during the internship.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a commitment of 30 hours per week, with the expectation of working in person at the United Nations premises in New York. The internship is set to last for four months, starting on or around September 26, 2026, with a possibility of extension. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Non-U.S. citizens must obtain a G-4 visa or ensure they have the appropriate visa status to undertake the internship. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants must provide proof of visa and/or work authorization before starting the internship.