Intern - Library and Knowledge Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner (OHCHR) is an organization dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in various countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to upholding the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The organization focuses on providing support to human rights mechanisms, promoting human rights education, and ensuring accountability for human rights violations. With a mission to empower individuals and communities, OHCHR works collaboratively with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to foster a culture of respect for human rights.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to support the Dynamic Knowledge and Library Team within the UN Human Rights Office. Interns will engage in various activities that contribute to the development of the Human Rights Knowledge Gateway, which serves as a central hub for thematic knowledge related to human rights. The role is multifaceted, with interns expected to take on different profiles: Library, Data Science, and Communications/Knowledge Management. Each intern will play a crucial role in enhancing the accessibility and dissemination of information related to human rights, thereby supporting the overall mission of the OHCHR. The internship is expected to last from January 1, 2027, to June 30, 2027, providing a unique opportunity for interns to gain hands-on experience in a prestigious international organization while contributing to meaningful projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities depending on their specific profiles. Those with a Communications/Knowledge Management profile will assist in organizing knowledge-sharing events, producing educational materials such as videos and tutorials, and updating content on the OHCHR intranet and knowledge hub. Interns with a Data Science profile will focus on automating tasks related to data management, including the classification and tagging of library assets and extracting structured information from various documents. For those in the Library profile, responsibilities will include managing the daily operations of the OHCHR Library, conducting cataloguing and indexing tasks, responding to research queries, and managing both physical and digital collections. All interns will be expected to collaborate effectively with team members and contribute to the overall success of the projects they are involved in.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program (Master's degree or equivalent) or in the final year of a Bachelor's degree program in relevant fields such as library science, information science, knowledge management, human rights, law, or international relations. Alternatively, applicants who have recently graduated in these fields are also eligible, provided they can commence the internship within one year of graduation. This ensures that candidates possess the necessary academic background and understanding of the subject matter relevant to the work of the OHCHR.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a strong educational foundation in areas pertinent to the internship. This includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program in library science, information science, knowledge management, or a related field such as human rights, law, or international relations. The educational requirements are designed to ensure that interns have the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to contribute effectively to the OHCHR's mission.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory, any relevant experience in library management, data analysis, or communications will be considered an asset. Interns are expected to demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the dynamic environment of the United Nations. This internship is particularly suited for individuals looking to gain practical experience in an international setting and develop their skills in knowledge management and human rights.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages is beneficial in the context of international organizations, where communication across diverse linguistic backgrounds is essential.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. Therefore, candidates should be prepared to cover their own expenses related to travel, accommodation, and living costs during the internship period. Additionally, non-citizens may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to clarify their visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably.