Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key Secretariat Department established to strengthen international human rights mechanisms. The OHCHR is dedicated to enhancing equality, countering discrimination, combating impunity, and strengthening accountability and the rule of law. It integrates human rights into development and economic spheres, widens democratic spaces, and provides early warning and protection of human rights in conflict situations. The organization operates globally, with a focus on promoting and protecting human rights standards and addressing issues of racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed for individuals who are interested in gaining exposure to the work of the United Nations, particularly within the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section (ARDS) of the Equality and Non-discrimination Branch (ENDB). Interns will work under the guidance of a primary supervisor and will be involved in supporting various initiatives aimed at implementing international human rights standards. This includes conducting research on contemporary issues such as hate speech, religious intolerance, and systemic racism. The role is crucial in assisting the UN in its mission to eliminate racial discrimination and promote equality globally. Interns are expected to demonstrate a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter and possess the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: assisting in research and analysis of issues related to racial discrimination and intolerance; supporting the development of capacity-building initiatives; providing thematic advice on contemporary human rights issues; assisting in the preparation of reports and documentation; participating in meetings and discussions related to the work of the ARDS; and contributing to the overall objectives of the Equality and Non-discrimination Branch. Interns may also be involved in outreach activities and the promotion of human rights standards within the UN system and among civil society organizations.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship programme, applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (Master's degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first-level university degree programme (Bachelor's degree or equivalent). Preferred fields of study include law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or related disciplines. While professional work experience is not required, relevant training, education, or advanced coursework that can benefit the UN during the internship is highly valued.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong academic background, ideally with a focus on human rights, law, political science, or social sciences. Enrollment in a graduate programme or completion of a Bachelor's degree is essential. The internship is aimed at individuals who are keen to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting within the UN framework.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship. However, candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to human rights principles. Relevant academic projects, volunteer work, or internships in related fields may enhance an applicant's profile.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for non-citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all qualified candidates.