Intern - Social Affairs

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Position Title: Intern - Social Affairs
Location: Bangkok
Country: Thailand
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is located within the Disaster Risk Reduction Section (DRS) of the Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction Division of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). Established to support member states in addressing disaster risk and climate preparedness, ESCAP operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region. The organization focuses on enhancing disaster and climate risk management through regional cooperation and the integration of science, technology, and innovation. The Trust Fund for Tsunami, Disaster and Climate Preparedness was established in 2005, following the Indian Ocean Tsunami of December 2004, to promote effective regional disaster preparedness mechanisms. Over the years, the fund has expanded its scope to include various aspects of disaster and climate preparedness, supporting member states in their efforts to build resilience against natural disasters.

Job Overview:
The internship position is designed for individuals who are interested in gaining practical experience in the field of disaster risk reduction and climate preparedness. Interns will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Management Officer for the Trust Fund for Tsunami, Disaster and Climate Preparedness. The role involves supporting the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting processes associated with the Trust Fund. Interns will be expected to engage in various tasks that contribute to the overall mission of ESCAP, including communications support for commemorative events, planning high-level consultations, and conducting research on early warning systems in the Asia-Pacific region. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic team environment and contribute to meaningful projects that have a direct impact on disaster risk management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: 1) Providing communications support for the 20th Commemoration of Indian Ocean Tsunami events and campaigns; 2) Assisting in the planning and execution of high-level events and consultations on disaster risk reduction with Trust Fund partners and member states; 3) Conducting research and providing analytical assistance on unmet needs in early warning systems in Asia and the Pacific, contributing to regional publications; 4) Reviewing progress and terminal reports as well as evaluations of Trust Fund projects, summarizing key findings; 5) Supporting the Disaster Risk Reduction Section in day-to-day project activities and tasks. This role requires a proactive approach and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.

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); or b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, candidates should have a field of study that is closely related to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that interns can effectively contribute to the work of the Disaster Risk Reduction Section.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, which includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or the final year of an undergraduate program. This educational requirement ensures that interns possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to engage in the tasks assigned during the internship.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This allows interns to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting and gain valuable insights into the workings of the United Nations and disaster risk management.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. This multilingual capability is beneficial as it enhances communication within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of five days per week (35 hours) for a duration of two to six months, depending on the needs of the division. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.