Internship for the Editorial Team

Internship for the Editorial Team

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

September 26, 2026October 28, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN Human Rights) is the leading UN entity on human rights, representing the world's commitment to the promotion and protection of the full range of human rights and freedoms as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Established in 2013, the External Engagement and Partnerships Service (EPS) works to create synergies between different external relations services to maximize the impact of their work. The EPS comprises five thematic areas/units: Audio-visual, Graphic Design, Social Media, Editorial, and Web. The Communications and Public Mobilization Section develops and implements strategies to improve general awareness of human rights issues and generates support for OHCHR's work in human rights, thereby playing a crucial role in the global human rights landscape.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds to gain exposure to the work of the United Nations through their service within Secretariat entities. The internship is unpaid and requires full-time engagement. Interns will work primarily within the Editorial Unit, contributing to content for the official UN Human Rights website, newsletters, events, social media, fundraising, and global campaigns. The role requires a demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. Interns will have the opportunity to interact with individuals from various cultural backgrounds and perspectives, enhancing their understanding of international human rights issues and the workings of the UN.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will assist in various tasks under the supervision of the Head of the Editorial Unit, including:
  • Production of a bi-monthly newsletter, which involves layout design, information gathering, distribution, and monitoring of metrics with reporting;
  • Creation of weekly emails detailing upcoming communication products, including social media metrics;
  • Conducting research based on official UN documentation and other sources for drafting feature stories;
  • Assisting in the preparation of public information campaigns and outreach activities, as well as collecting feedback on campaigns;
  • Supporting the development and branding of public information products such as fact sheets, background notes, and brochures;
  • Researching and drafting texts for the OHCHR website, including thematic introductory pages;
  • Liaising with OHCHR field presences and the UN Department of Public Information on communications matters;
  • Organizing and effectively disseminating materials to partners and assembling public information materials for specific events;
  • Coordinating OHCHR briefings for visiting groups; 1
  • Monitoring and evaluating campaigns and other communication products under direction; 1
  • Attending relevant meetings to support the functions of the Editorial Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's, or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. A strong interest in human rights and the work of the United Nations is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives, showcasing a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be in their final year of a bachelor's degree or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program. Alternatively, they may have already completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of international human rights work and the operations of the United Nations.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, a demonstrated interest in human rights and familiarity with the workings of the United Nations will be beneficial. Interns should be prepared to engage in a full-time internship that provides practical experience in a professional setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, and familiarity with another United Nations official language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be advantageous, enhancing the intern's ability to communicate in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. 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. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
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