Urban-Rural Linkages Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an agency established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable urbanization and human settlements. It aims to foster socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities, working with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities. UN-Habitat operates globally, focusing on urbanization as a transformative force to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. The organization collaborates with national and local governments to implement urban policies and frameworks that address social, cultural, economic, and environmental concerns.

Job Overview:
The Urban-Rural Linkages Intern will be part of the Policy and Legislation Section (PLS) within UN-Habitat, specifically focusing on urban-rural linkages and territorial approaches. The intern will support research and policy-oriented work, particularly on projects aimed at strengthening urban-rural linkages through regeneration. This role involves conducting research on urban and rural development policies, preparing background documents, analyzing data, and assisting in the development of knowledge products and policy tools. The intern will also contribute to organizing workshops and events related to urban-rural linkages, ensuring that the work aligns with UN-Habitat’s strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's daily responsibilities will vary based on their background and assigned office. Key duties include conducting research on urban and rural development policies, reviewing and preparing background documents, analyzing data related to urban-rural linkages, and supporting the preparation of concept notes and reports. The intern will assist in developing knowledge products and communication materials, contribute to organizing thematic workshops and events, and support documentation and reporting efforts. The role requires a proactive approach to learning and contributing to the team's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate program, be in the final year of a bachelor's degree, or have recently graduated with a relevant degree. Candidates should be computer literate, particularly in Microsoft Office Suite, and demonstrate a keen interest in UN work and commitment to its ideals. They should also have the ability to interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and be tolerant of differing opinions. Preferred areas of study include urban regeneration, urban studies, urban and regional planning, geography, or international development. Strong research, writing, and analytical skills are essential, along with familiarity with urban regeneration and sustainable urbanization topics.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have recently attained an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as urban regeneration, urban studies, urban and regional planning, geography, or international development. A master's or PhD candidate is preferred. The educational background should align closely with the internship's focus on urban-rural linkages and related areas.

Experience:
While applicants are not required to have professional work experience, they should have a field of study closely related to the internship. Experience in research and copy editing is required, particularly in urban thematic areas. Familiarity with research methodologies and database management is desirable, as is experience in analyzing data related to urban regeneration.

Languages:
Fluency in English (spoken and written) is mandatory for this internship position. Knowledge of Chinese (Mandarin) is desirable, as is proficiency in another UN language. The ability to read, translate, and summarize documents in English is essential for the role.

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 Kenya may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. Candidates should discuss their visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.