UN Political Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC) is dedicated to the protection of children affected by armed conflict. The office operates under the mandate established by General Assembly resolution 51/77 and subsequent resolutions, as well as security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council resolutions. Its mission is to strengthen the protection of children in conflict zones, raise awareness about their plight, promote information collection, and foster international cooperation to enhance their safety. The office is located in Brussels, Belgium, and is part of the broader United Nations system, which aims to uphold human rights and humanitarian principles globally.

Job Overview:
The UN Political intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern will engage in various functions to support the OSRSG-CAAC's projects. This internship is a full-time, unpaid position requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week. Interns will work under the supervision of a staff member and will be involved in research and analysis related to children and armed conflict. The intern will be expected to monitor political and security developments, humanitarian issues, and EU and Human Rights Council discussions relevant to the mandate. This role will also involve attending meetings, taking notes, and assisting in the preparation of reports and policy documents. The internship provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the workings of the United Nations and contribute to meaningful projects aimed at protecting vulnerable children in conflict situations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Political Affairs Intern will be responsible for conducting research and reference searches on issues related to the children and armed conflict mandate. This includes supporting the monitoring and reporting of discussions and initiatives by the EU and Human Rights Council. The intern will attend conferences and meetings, take detailed notes, and assist in servicing these events. Additionally, the intern will help prepare reports, concept papers, policy documents, talking points, articles, and other materials as needed. Other duties may be assigned as required, providing a comprehensive experience in political affairs and international cooperation.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Candidates should be proficient in standard software applications and demonstrate a strong interest in the work of the United Nations, along with a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. The ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs is essential, including a willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions and views. Professional work experience is not required for applicants to the UN Internship Programme.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be either enrolled in or have completed a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree program. This educational background ensures that interns possess the necessary academic foundation to engage with complex issues related to children and armed conflict.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates should demonstrate relevant academic knowledge and a strong interest in international relations, humanitarian issues, and the workings of the United Nations. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to the mission of the OSRSG-CAAC.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Spanish is considered desirable, which may enhance the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and documents.

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 Belgium 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 that the application process is accessible and free from financial barriers.