UN Public Information Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Information Center (UNIC) in Washington, D.C. serves as the principal source of information about the United Nations system in the United States. The mission of UNIC is to promote public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations by disseminating information materials to a local audience. The organization engages with local and regional partners to bring the United Nations closer to the people it serves. UNIC operates in various capacities to ensure that the public is informed about the UN's initiatives and programs, thereby fostering a greater understanding of global issues.

Job Overview:
The UN Public intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Information Intern position is designed to provide students with practical experience in public information and communications within the context of the United Nations. The internship is structured to last for three months, with the possibility of an extension for an additional three months, depending on the needs of the office and the intern's academic obligations. The intern will work in a hybrid modality, which allows for both in-office and remote work, depending on the circumstances. This role is crucial for supporting the dissemination of UN information and engaging with the community to enhance public awareness of the UN's work. The intern will report directly to the Director of UNIC and will be involved in various tasks that contribute to the overall mission of the Center.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties that include assisting with the content and design of social media posts, conducting analysis of social media metrics, and supporting the production of communication products. This includes conducting research, compiling information, coordinating logistics, and responding to public inquiries. The intern will also assist in preparations for events, high-level visitors from headquarters and field offices, and speaking engagements. Additional responsibilities include compiling, analyzing, and organizing data for office reports, attending meetings, drafting summaries, and performing other tasks as necessary to support the office's functions.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience. However, it is essential that applicants have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. Candidates must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. A good working knowledge of standard office software applications, particularly MS Word, PowerPoint, and Teams, is expected. The ability to draft news articles and/or social media posts is desirable, as is the ability to design surveys and polls.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be in their final year of a bachelor's degree or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. This educational background is crucial as it ensures that the intern has the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the UNIC's mission. Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree will be required during the application process.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include experience in communications, public relations, or related fields, which would enhance the intern's ability to perform the duties effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Proficiency in these languages will enable the intern to communicate effectively within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States 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 internship can be either full-time (35 hours per week) or part-time (21 hours per week), depending on the intern's academic commitments. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all candidates.