Intern, Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), which was established to promote sustainable development and social progress globally. The organization focuses on various aspects of economic and social affairs, including financing for sustainable development, and operates in multiple countries around the world, engaging with member states to implement development goals. UNDESA is committed to fostering international cooperation and providing technical assistance to countries in need, with a mission to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The internship position is designed to provide practical experience in the field of economic affairs, specifically within the Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) of UNDESA. Interns will work closely with staff members in the Policy Analysis and Development Branch (PADB), contributing to research and analysis related to financing for development action areas such as sustainable private finance, domestic public resources, and international development cooperation. The internship is expected to last for three to six months, with a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week. Interns will have the opportunity to engage in various projects, attend conferences, and assist in logistical arrangements, thereby gaining valuable insights into the workings of the United Nations and its role in global economic governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: assisting in the work of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Financing for Development, conducting research and preparing background papers on financing for sustainable development issues, attending and summarizing conferences and meetings, providing logistical and administrative support during conferences, and compiling statistics and conducting data analysis. The role is project-based, allowing interns to engage in diverse activities that contribute to the overall mission of the PADB and the FSDO.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being enrolled in or having completed a graduate school program (such as a Master’s degree or equivalent) or being in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level). Additionally, applicants should be computer literate in standard software applications and possess a field of study in economics or a related field. While professional work experience is not required, a relevant academic background is essential. Good knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (Master’s or equivalent) or be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree program. A field of study related to economics or economic affairs is desirable, as it aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. Applicants should also demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, which is crucial for performing the tasks associated with the internship effectively.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have a strong academic background in a relevant field. This could include coursework or projects related to economics, finance, or sustainable development. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of economic affairs and contribute to the work of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for the internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French, another official UN language, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages can be beneficial in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The internship is designed to be in-person and full-time, but there may be flexibility for remote or hybrid arrangements based on the successful candidate's situation. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the organization prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.