Human Rights Social Media Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key component of the United Nations, 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, expanding democratic spaces, and providing early warning and protection in situations of conflict and violence. The OHCHR operates in numerous countries around the world, employing a diverse workforce committed to upholding the ideals of the United Nations Charter.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Social Media Internship at OHCHR is designed for students or recent graduates who are passionate about human rights and social media. The intern will support the OHCHR's mission to protect and promote human rights for all individuals. This role involves researching current human rights issues to assist in communication and public information outreach. The intern will work under the guidance of the Chief of Section and report to the respective Unit head. This internship is a full-time, unpaid position that provides valuable exposure to the workings of the United Nations and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful human rights initiatives. The internship is expected to last for three months, with the possibility of extension for an additional three months, depending on supervisor approval. The internship is set to commence between January 2026 and July 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's daily responsibilities will vary based on their background but may include: researching and analyzing current human rights issues, assisting in the development of communication strategies, creating content for social media platforms, and supporting public information outreach efforts. The intern will also be expected to engage with diverse cultural backgrounds and contribute to a collaborative work environment. The role may involve creating video or graphic design items for social media posts, thereby enhancing the visibility of human rights issues and the work of the OHCHR.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or Ph.D. program, or have recently completed one of these degrees. No prior work experience is required, but candidates should demonstrate skills and knowledge that would benefit the United Nations during their internship. A keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals are essential. Additionally, the ability to create engaging content for social media is a requirement for this position.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be enrolled in or have completed a relevant academic program, such as communications, international relations, human rights, or a related field. Proof of current matriculation status or completion of the degree is required at the time of application.

Experience:
No prior work experience is necessary to apply for this internship. However, any relevant training, coursework, or skills that can contribute to the work of the United Nations will be beneficial. The internship is particularly suited for individuals looking to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and public information.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, and proficiency in another United Nations official language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be advantageous.

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. 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 during the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.