Public Administration Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is located within the External Relations and Outreach (ERC) of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA). UNESCWA was established to promote economic and social development in the region, focusing on various issues such as sustainable development, social justice, and regional cooperation. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Middle East and North Africa, working with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to achieve its mission. The organization is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable development, and it employs a diverse workforce dedicated to these goals.

Job Overview:
The Public Administration Intern will provide general substantive and administrative support to the External Relations and Outreach team at UNESCWA. The intern will work under the supervision of the Secretary of the Commission and the Chief of External Relations and Outreach. This position is designed to give interns practical experience in the workings of the United Nations, particularly in the areas of external relations and outreach. The intern will be involved in various activities that contribute to the ongoing work programs of the team, including research, document preparation, and meeting organization. This internship is an opportunity to gain insight into the operations of a major international organization and to develop skills that are valuable in the field of public administration and international relations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: assisting with general research and information gathering related to the work of the assigned team; supporting the preparation, organization, and review of documents, presentations, and other materials; assisting with the collection, compilation, and organization of information and data; supporting the preparation and updating of databases and other working documents; providing support in the preparation and organization of meetings, workshops, and other activities; assisting with administrative and coordination tasks as required; contributing to the preparation of communication and outreach materials; attending meetings and preparing notes, summaries, or follow-up points as requested; and performing other related duties and tasks as assigned by the supervisor. This role requires a proactive approach and the ability to work collaboratively with team members.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet several conditions: they must be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent), or have graduated with a university degree as defined above. Additionally, applicants must be computer literate in standard software applications, have a demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and possess a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. Furthermore, candidates should demonstrate the ability to successfully interact with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing a willingness to understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes being enrolled in a graduate program or being in the final year of an undergraduate program. This means that candidates should have a strong academic foundation, ideally in fields related to public administration, international relations, social sciences, or other relevant disciplines. The internship is designed for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience while still pursuing their education or shortly after graduation.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals. Any previous experience in administrative roles, research, or involvement in international organizations would be beneficial but is not a strict requirement. The focus is on candidates who are eager to learn and contribute to the work of the UN.

Languages:
For this position, fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it is a working language of ESCWA. Candidates should be able to demonstrate fluency in English across all four areas: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of Arabic, while not mandatory, would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with the work of the organization and its stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially remunerated, meaning that they will not receive a salary for their work. Therefore, candidates should be prepared to cover their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Lebanon may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is free from financial barriers.