Intern - Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was established in 1993 and is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. The organization operates in various countries, working towards the realization of human rights for all individuals, regardless of their background. OHCHR employs a diverse workforce and engages with numerous stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to fulfill its mission. The organization is committed to upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, advocating for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at OHCHR is designed to provide support to the Human Rights Council Branch in Geneva. Interns will engage in a variety of tasks that contribute to the overall mission of the OHCHR, which is to protect and promote human rights for all people. The intern will be expected to draft daily notes of proceedings, collect and file relevant documents, assist in finalizing draft reports, and prepare statistical reports related to the Council's work. This role requires a proactive approach to analyzing trends affecting the Council's work and making suggestions for improvements. Interns will also assist in outreach activities and respond to inquiries from non-governmental organizations, thereby gaining valuable experience in the field of human rights and international relations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include but are not limited to: drafting daily notes of proceedings for information sharing; collecting and filing documents and statements related to agenda items; assisting in finalizing draft reports with thorough verification; preparing statistical reports on the Council's work; analyzing trends affecting the Council's operations; drafting summaries of communications under the Council's Complaint Procedure; preparing draft responses to correspondence; assisting in the preparation and servicing of meetings; following up on activities organized by the Office and other stakeholders; drafting media highlights; and performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor. This position requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship program, applicants must be either a graduate or currently enrolled in a graduate school program (Master's degree or equivalent) or in the final academic year of a first-level university degree program (Bachelor's degree or equivalent). The preferred fields of study include law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or related disciplines. Applicants are not required to have prior professional work experience, making this opportunity accessible to recent graduates and students.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree or be enrolled in a graduate program at the time of application. The educational background should ideally be in areas related to human rights, law, political science, or international relations. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the workings of the United Nations.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in human rights issues and the workings of the United Nations. Relevant academic projects, volunteer work, or internships in related fields may enhance an applicant's profile, but they are not mandatory.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is considered an asset. Additionally, proficiency in another United Nations official language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be advantageous, reflecting the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last between 3 to 6 months and is unpaid. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to provide complete and accurate information in their applications. The organization emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of integrity and efficiency in its recruitment practices.