Intern, Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) is a vital part of the United Nations system, established to promote sustainable development through policy analysis, capacity building, and the provision of substantive support to intergovernmental processes. DESA plays a crucial role in the global development agenda, focusing on economic, social, and environmental issues. The organization has been operational since the establishment of the United Nations in 1945 and currently employs thousands of staff members across various countries, working collaboratively to address global challenges and support member states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) is designed to provide substantive support and secretariat services to the intergovernmental process on Financing for Development (FFD). The intern will be involved in the preparations and execution of the Financing for Development Forum, which is a key event aimed at promoting policy coherence and mobilizing financial resources to accelerate the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The intern will work closely with the core team, contributing to research, documentation, and logistical support, ensuring that the Forum's activities are well-organized and effectively communicated. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international development and policy-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that are essential for the successful organization of the Financing for Development Forum. Key duties include conducting web and open-source research to support the preparation of background documentation and concept notes. The intern will compile statistical data into reference spreadsheets to aid in analytical reviews and policy briefings. Additionally, the intern will monitor global media channels, drafting daily news summaries relevant to financing for development topics. Document drafting and reporting will also be a significant part of the role, where the intern will assist in formatting and drafting official Forum documents, attending preparatory conferences and intergovernmental meetings to observe proceedings, and drafting concise summary notes. Furthermore, the intern will provide logistical and operational support during Forum conferences and events, assisting with the formatting and updating of presentation materials and online content. The intern is expected to deliver well-researched documentation, timely summary notes, formatted digital assets, and daily media briefings throughout the internship.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. programme or have completed such a programme. Proof of eligibility must be provided with the application.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate programme or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree programme. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation in fields related to economic affairs, international relations, public policy, or sustainable development. This educational background will ensure that the intern possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the tasks assigned during the internship.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates are expected to have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to economic affairs, development studies, or policy analysis. The focus is on candidates who demonstrate a strong understanding of the issues surrounding financing for development and the Sustainable Development Goals.

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 Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate better communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
This internship is designed to be in-person and full-time, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week. The expected duration of the internship is between 2 to 6 months, starting from December 1, 202

• It is important to note that interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.