Economic Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable development through trade and investment, providing them with the necessary tools and resources to enhance their productive capacities and engage effectively in the global economy.

Job Overview:
The Economic intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the workings of the United Nations, specifically within the UNCTAD's Productive Capacities and Sustainable Development (PCSD) Branch. The intern will be expected to work full-time, either remotely or in-person, for a duration of approximately three months, starting from 15 September 202

• The role involves supporting the implementation of technical assistance aimed at strengthening productive capacities in developing countries, particularly in sectors such as Blue Economy and agricultural value chains. Interns will engage in various tasks including collecting and synthesizing information, preparing summary notes for sectoral studies, and assisting in project proposal development. The internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, and living expenses must be borne by the intern. The position offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into international development and trade issues while contributing to meaningful projects that impact developing nations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties including:

• Supporting the Programme Management Officer in the implementation of technical assistance projects aimed at enhancing productive capacities in developing countries.
• Assisting in the preparation of Holistic Productive Capacities Development programmes based on National Productive Capacities Gap Assessments.
• Collecting and synthesizing relevant information to prepare summary notes that will contribute to broader sectoral studies.
• Supporting the development of project proposals that assist in productive capacities development in African countries and other target regions.
• Observing and adhering to all applicable UN rules, regulations, and directives throughout the internship.
• Providing copies of all materials prepared during the internship to the receiving departments/offices.
• Respecting the confidentiality and impartiality required of the UN and refraining from any conduct that could adversely reflect on the organization.
• Engaging in training and mentoring opportunities provided during the internship.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent); or (c) Have graduated with a university degree (as defined above) and must commence the internship within one year of graduation. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate computer literacy in standard software applications, a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. No prior professional work experience is required for this internship, but a relevant field of study is necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes a university degree in economics, development, law, political science, or other social sciences deemed appropriate. Applicants must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. Programme, or have completed such programmes. Proof of enrollment or graduation will be required during the application process.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to economics, development, or international relations.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French, Arabic, and/or Portuguese is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, so proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern. Interns must have a valid visa for in-person internships, and those working remotely must have access to a computer with the latest version of Office 365 applications and adhere to basic IT security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security practices. The internship is expected to last from 14 September 2026 to 11 December 2026, and there is no expectation of employment within the UN following the internship. Interns are not eligible to apply for or be appointed to positions at the professional level and above for six months after the internship ends. The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.