Editorial and AI Communications Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference for 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 economic growth and sustainable development through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The Editorial and AI intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Communications Intern position at UNCTAD is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in communications, particularly in the context of trade and development. The intern will be expected to draft, edit, and adapt various editorial products, including web stories, social media content, and newsletters. The role emphasizes improving clarity and structure while maintaining accuracy and institutional neutrality. The intern will also engage in research related to generative AI and its applications in editorial work, contributing to the development of best practices in this area. This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, starting on December 1, 2026, for an initial period of three months.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include drafting and editing web stories, social media copy, newsletters, and other editorial products related to trade and development. They will work on improving the clarity, structure, and reader navigation of content while ensuring accuracy and adherence to UNCTAD's editorial voice. The intern will also prepare content that is easily identifiable by search and AI systems, including precise headings and structured metadata. Additionally, the intern will research emerging practices in generative AI and assist in testing AI tools for editorial work, documenting effective workflows and limitations. Interns are expected to observe all applicable rules and regulations of the UN, provide copies of all materials prepared during the internship, and respect the impartiality and independence of the organization. They must refrain from communicating any non-public information and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the UN.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific criteria to be eligible for the UN internship programme. They should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme or be in the final academic year of a first university degree programme. Desirable skills for this position include studies in communications, journalism, digital media, linguistics, international relations, economics, or related fields. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of generative AI in communications, sound editorial judgment, attention to detail, and an interest in the work of the United Nations. While professional experience is not required, relevant experience in editorial AI and communication is considered a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed or be enrolled in a graduate programme or be in the final year of a bachelor's degree programme. Relevant fields of study include communications, journalism, digital media, linguistics, international relations, and economics. The internship is aimed at enhancing the educational experience of students or recent graduates by providing exposure to the workings of the United Nations.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not a prerequisite for the UN Internship Programme, any relevant experience in editorial work, AI communications, or multimedia projects will be beneficial. Candidates are encouraged to describe their experience in these areas, particularly if they have worked on projects involving generative AI or editorial content creation.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of French and/or Spanish is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication within the multicultural environment of the United Nations and facilitate interactions with a broader audience.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern. Interns must have a valid visa for in-person internships, and those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate work authorization. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of employment following the internship.