UNCTAD Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations Secretariat and was established in 196

• Its mission is to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy, with a focus on trade, investment, and sustainable development. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. The organization aims to provide a platform for dialogue and policy-making among member states, fostering economic growth and development through research, analysis, and capacity-building initiatives.

Job Overview:
The UNCTAD internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located in Geneva within the Digital Economy Capacity-Building Section (DECBS) of the E-Commerce and Digital Economy Branch (ECDE). The internship is expected to commence on May 17, 2027, and will last for an initial period of three months. This is an in-person internship, which means that interns must be physically present in Geneva and must possess a valid visa. The internship is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the work of the United Nations, particularly in the areas of e-commerce and digital trade. Interns will engage in various tasks that may include conducting background research, data collection, and providing policy analysis support, especially focusing on developing and least developed countries. The role also involves assisting in drafting analytical studies, organizing meetings and workshops, and preparing communication materials. Interns are expected to adhere to the rules and regulations of the UN, respect confidentiality, and maintain the impartiality required of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a range of responsibilities that may vary based on their background and the specific period of their internship. Key duties include:

• Assisting in background research and data collection related to e-commerce and digital trade, focusing on ICT infrastructure, trade logistics, digital payments, legal frameworks, skills development, and access to finance.
• Supporting the drafting of inputs for analytical studies, such as the 5th eTrade Implementation Review and ongoing eTrade Readiness Assessments.
• Aiding in the organization and servicing of meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagement initiatives, including presenting DECBS work and products.
• Assisting in the preparation of communication materials for social media and web content.
• Observing all applicable rules and regulations of the UN, providing copies of materials prepared during the internship, and respecting the confidentiality of information.
• Engaging in other related duties as required by the DECBS team.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the UNCTAD internship, applicants must meet specific criteria. They should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). Additionally, applicants should demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. No prior work experience is required, but a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Applicants must also provide proof of their educational status and relevant skills in their application.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor's or equivalent), or they must have completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program. This educational background is essential to ensure that interns can contribute effectively to the work of the UNCTAD and gain valuable experience during their internship.

Experience:
While no specific work experience is required for this internship, applicants should have relevant training, education, or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. The focus is on providing students or recent graduates with an opportunity to gain practical experience in a professional setting, particularly within the context of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of French (both oral and written). Knowledge of other UN official languages is considered an advantage, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

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 secure the appropriate visa and work authorization if they are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland. The internship does not guarantee employment within the UN after its completion, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional-level positions within the UN for six months following the end of their internship. Additionally, applicants who are related to UN staff members must adhere to specific guidelines regarding their eligibility for the internship.