Intern, Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), which was established to promote sustainable development and to support the work of the United Nations in various capacities. DESA plays a crucial role in coordinating the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development, and it engages with a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector. The organization operates globally, with a mission to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental protection. It employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various UN bodies and agencies to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The internship position is situated in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), specifically within the Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development (OISC) / Non-Governmental Organizations Branch (now referred to as the ECOSOC and NGO Support Branch). The intern will report directly to the Senior Programme Management Officer and will primarily support the Branch's work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The internship is designed to be full-time, requiring 35 hours per week, and is intended to last for a maximum of six months, with a desired start date of January 4, 202

• The intern will have the opportunity to engage in various tasks that contribute to the work of the UN, particularly in relation to sustainable development and stakeholder engagement. The position is unpaid, but it may be adjusted to part-time based on the needs of the successful candidate. Daily responsibilities will vary depending on the intern's background and the specific office to which they are assigned, providing a unique opportunity for professional development and exposure to the workings of the UN.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties will include a range of responsibilities aimed at supporting the NGO workstream of the ECOSOC and NGO Support Branch. Key responsibilities will involve assisting in the review of applications for consultative status, ensuring compliance with ECOSOC Resolution 1996/3

• The intern will also communicate with NGOs regarding the status of their applications and respond to various basic requests. Additional tasks will include conducting basic internet research to gather background information and materials for reports and studies, taking notes during meetings of the Committee on NGOs, and reviewing relevant documentation. The intern will provide support in organizing consultations with NGOs, contribute to stakeholder engagement efforts, and assist in the organization of panel discussions, roundtables, and special meetings of ECOSOC. Furthermore, the intern will support communications efforts by contributing content to the ECOSOC website, newsletters, brochures, social media channels, press releases, and news articles. Other project-related support functions may be assigned as needed, consistent with the scope of the project and the intern's learning objectives.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, 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); (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent); or (c) have graduated with a university degree (as defined above) and must commence the internship within a one-year period of graduation. While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Strong research and report writing skills, as well as an interest in sustainable development issues and stakeholder engagement, are desirable attributes for candidates.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in or have completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. Alternatively, applicants who have completed their Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. programs are also eligible, provided they can start the internship within one year of graduation. Proof of enrollment or graduation must be attached to the application, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates are expected to have relevant academic backgrounds that align with the responsibilities of the position. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in the field of economic and social affairs, particularly in relation to the work of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship. Knowledge of French or any of the official languages of the United Nations is considered an asset. Given that English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, proficiency in these languages will enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to the team's work.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is located 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. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.