UNEP Event Planning Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The Geneva Environment Network is a cooperative partnership of over 100 organizations or secretariats that contribute to the global environmental agenda. Established in 1999 and based in the International Environment House and other locations in the Geneva area, including various United Nations offices and local authorities, the network is supported by Switzerland. The Geneva Environment Network Secretariat, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), actively promotes increased cooperation and networking among its members. The organization aims to enhance access to information resources and outreach to the public and targeted groups in preparation for global environmental negotiations and conferences. More information can be found on their official website: https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/

Job Overview:
The internship is situated within the Geneva Environment Secretariat, where the intern will work under the direct supervision of the Geneva Environment Network Coordinator. The primary focus of the internship is to contribute to various conferences, manage a weekly newsletter, engage with social media networks, and maintain the website of the Geneva Environment Network. The intern will also lead preparations for visits from students and country delegations, thereby playing a crucial role in facilitating communication and outreach efforts related to environmental issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the Geneva Environment Network's mission. These tasks include assisting in the launch and development of activities and projects aimed at enhancing Environmental Information and Public Awareness, particularly in support of environmental negotiations. The intern will help organize outreach meetings and gather relevant information and materials. Additionally, the intern will assist the team in organizing hybrid meetings by overseeing logistics, preparing invitations, summaries, and other related materials. Management of the Geneva Environment Network's digital and social media accounts, including platforms such as Facebook, X, BlueSky, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube, will also be part of the intern's responsibilities. Furthermore, the intern will assist with maintaining the calendar of events and updating the website, as well as supporting the secretariat with day-to-day tasks necessary for the implementation of the work programme.

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 degree or equivalent). It is essential for applicants to be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or to have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme. Additionally, applicants should possess good knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Teams, and Canva. Experience in drafting articles and/or social media posts is also required, and candidates should provide details of such experience in their application.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate school programme or being in the final year of a first university degree programme. This means that candidates should either be pursuing or have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme. Proof of enrollment or completion will need to be attached to the application, and an official certificate may be required at a later stage.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes familiarity with standard software applications and experience in drafting articles or social media content. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage social media accounts and produce media content. Experience in organizing events or meetings, particularly in a hybrid format, would be beneficial. Knowledge of international Geneva and its environmental context is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, knowledge of French is necessary, as it is the other working language of the Secretariat. Proficiency in both languages will enable effective communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, meaning that all costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, processing, or training.