UN DPO Intern - Political Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries around the world, with a significant presence in New York City, where its headquarters is located. The organization employs thousands of individuals across diverse fields, including political affairs, humanitarian aid, and international development, working collaboratively to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The UN DPO Intern in Political Affairs will be engaged in a comprehensive internship program designed to provide practical experience in the field of international relations and peacekeeping operations. The intern will work under the supervision of the Special Assistant in the Office of the Director, DPET/DPO, contributing to the executive coordination, policy development, and strategic partnership functions of the division. This internship is structured to be full-time, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week, although there is flexibility for part-time arrangements based on the intern's needs. The role is primarily in-person at the UN premises in New York, with the possibility of remote work. The internship is unpaid and is expected to last for a maximum of six months, with the potential for extension depending on the division's requirements. The intern will gain valuable insights into the workings of the UN and its approach to peacekeeping and international cooperation, while also developing skills in research, analysis, and project management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the functions of the Office of the Director. Key duties include conducting research and analysis on issues related to UN peacekeeping and operations, assisting in the preparation of reports and policy papers, reviewing and summarizing relevant documents, managing qualitative and quantitative data, supporting project management and coordination, and assisting in the planning and execution of high-level meetings and conferences. The intern will also be involved in developing communication products, providing editorial support for official documents, and maintaining strategic partnerships with various stakeholders. Additional responsibilities may include attending meetings, taking notes, and preparing summaries and action points to ensure effective communication and follow-up on initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific educational criteria to qualify for the internship. They should either 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 degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not mandatory, a field of study closely related to the internship is required. Candidates must demonstrate their eligibility by providing proof of their academic status. Desirable qualifications include experience or research knowledge in peacekeeping missions, international organizations, or humanitarian settings, as well as experience in engaging work environments.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a student in the final year of a Bachelor's degree program or having completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program. The field of study should be relevant to the internship's focus on political affairs, international relations, or related disciplines. Applicants must provide documentation to verify their academic qualifications, which may include transcripts or enrollment certificates.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates with experience or research knowledge in areas such as peacekeeping missions, international organizations, or humanitarian settings will be viewed favorably. Experience in collaborative and interactive work environments is also desirable, as it indicates the candidate's ability to work effectively within a team and contribute to the division's objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages can facilitate communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents must obtain a G-4 visa to undertake the internship. The UN requires all applicants to be authorized to work in the country where the internship will take place, whether in-person or remotely. Interns must submit proof of visa and/or work authorization before starting their internship. Additionally, applicants who have previously served six months as an intern in any UN entity are ineligible for this position. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably.