Trade Facilitation 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 through trade and economic policies. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve economic growth and sustainable development through trade facilitation and capacity building.

Job Overview:
The Trade Facilitation Intern position at UNCTAD is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the field of trade facilitation, customs, and supply chain management. The intern will work within the Division of Technology and Logistics (DTL) and will be involved in various research and technical assistance activities aimed at improving cross-border clearance efficiency and promoting trade growth, particularly in developing countries. The internship is full-time and can be conducted either in-person in Geneva or remotely, depending on the intern's circumstances. The intern will receive training and mentoring throughout the internship, which is expected to last for three months, starting in September 2026, with the possibility of extension for an additional three months. The intern will assist in research and analysis, contribute to the preparation of training materials, and support the organization of workshops and other activities related to trade facilitation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include participating in online meetings, conducting research and analysis on trade facilitation and customs, assisting in the preparation of training modules for National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs), and contributing to the development of promotional materials for the UNCTAD Empowerment programme. The intern will also help organize workshops, prepare drafts on specific issues, and provide support for the preparation of relevant documents. Additionally, the intern will be expected to adhere to the rules and regulations of the UN and maintain confidentiality regarding any sensitive information encountered during the internship.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent) or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level). Interns should be computer literate in standard software applications and demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations. They should also possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs. No prior work experience is required, but a field of study related to the internship is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's, or Ph.D. programme, or have completed such programmes. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided during the application process. The educational background should ideally be related to trade, economics, international relations, or a similar field 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 would benefit the UN during their internship. The focus is on providing students or recent graduates with exposure to the workings of the United Nations and enhancing their educational experience.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position. Knowledge of an additional official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is desirable and would be considered an asset during the selection process.

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 if they are participating in-person in Geneva. The internship is full-time, requiring interns to work five days a week for a total of 40 hours. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of employment with the UN following the internship, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional-level positions within the UN for six months after the internship ends. The application process requires a complete online application, including a cover note and personal history profile, and only successful candidates will be contacted.