Intern, Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a vital part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to strengthen international human rights mechanisms, enhance equality, combat discrimination, and ensure accountability and the rule of law. The organization is dedicated to integrating human rights into development and economic policies, widening democratic spaces, and providing early warning and protection in situations of conflict and violence. The OHCHR operates in various countries around the world, engaging with diverse communities and stakeholders to uphold human rights standards and principles.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the OHCHR is designed for individuals who are keen to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and public information. Interns will work closely with the Media Outreach & Spokesperson's Office (MOSO), which is part of the Executive Direction Management (EDM). The primary focus of this office is to engage with the media and promote the messaging of the High Commissioner through various channels, including speeches, press releases, and media products. Interns will have the opportunity to contribute to the promotion of human rights initiatives and the work of Special Procedures and Treaty Bodies. This internship is a full-time, unpaid position that lasts from three to six months, providing a unique opportunity for students from diverse academic backgrounds to immerse themselves in the workings of the United Nations and gain valuable insights into international human rights advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will support the OHCHR in its mission to protect human rights for all individuals. Daily responsibilities may vary based on the intern's background but generally include: conducting media and social media monitoring, compiling daily media clippings related to the Office's work, assisting in the preparation of materials for press conferences and bi-weekly briefings, helping to set up and run events, researching and providing audiovisual content for media platforms, and assisting in the preparation of speeches. The intern will also perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the Public Information team.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the United Nations Secretariat internship programme, applicants must be enrolled in the final year of a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) or in a graduate school programme (Master's degree or higher) at the time of application. Preferred fields of study include law, communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, political science, social sciences, or related areas. While no prior work experience is required, applicants should demonstrate how their education and skills can benefit the United Nations during their internship.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in a relevant academic program, either in their final year of undergraduate studies or pursuing a graduate degree. The focus should ideally be on disciplines that align with the work of the OHCHR, such as law, communication, journalism, international relations, or social sciences. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the role of the United Nations in addressing them.

Experience:
No prior work experience is necessary to apply for this internship. However, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or advanced coursework that can contribute to the work of the United Nations during their internship. This is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in a prestigious international organization.

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 official UN language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be advantageous. This multilingual environment emphasizes the importance of effective communication across diverse cultural backgrounds.

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 before starting the internship. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process remains accessible to all candidates.