Internship with the Human Rights Treaties Branch

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Position Title: Internship with the Human Rights Treaties Branch
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Human Rights Treaties Branch (HRTB) is part of the United Nations and was established to support the activities of human rights treaty bodies as mandated by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 68/26

• The organization focuses on ensuring that all individuals can enjoy the rights outlined in international human rights treaties. The HRTB operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders to enhance the implementation of human rights standards. The organization is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and is supported by the Secretariats of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Job Overview:
The internship position within the Human Rights Treaties Branch is designed to provide practical experience in the field of human rights and treaty monitoring. Interns will engage in a variety of tasks that support the work of the treaty bodies, which include independent experts monitoring the implementation of core international human rights treaties. The role is crucial in assisting with the preparation of reports, conducting legal analysis, and supporting the capacity-building initiatives of the UN. Interns will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals in the field, gaining insights into the functioning of international human rights mechanisms and contributing to meaningful projects that impact the lives of individuals worldwide. The internship is expected to last between three to six months, providing a comprehensive introduction to the workings of the UN and the specific functions of the HRTB.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be involved in a range of responsibilities that may include: preparing country and legal analyses, drafting legal background papers for human rights treaty bodies, conducting research on jurisprudence, assisting with individual communications under treaty body complaints procedures, and providing support for inter-state communications. Additionally, interns will help prepare for country visits by the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, take notes during sessions, assist with administrative duties, contribute to outreach tasks, support the Universal Human Rights Index, and assist in the evaluation of project proposals for funding. The role may also involve preparing reports for the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council, organizing training activities, and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must be either a graduate or currently enrolled in a graduate school program (Master's degree or equivalent) or in the final year of a first-level university degree program (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in fields such as law, political science, international relations, or social sciences. Importantly, applicants are not required to have prior professional work experience to participate in the program, making this an excellent opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain valuable experience in the international arena.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, which includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program (Master's degree or equivalent) or being in the final year of a Bachelor's degree program. The focus should ideally be in areas related to law, political science, international relations, or social sciences, as these fields provide the necessary foundation for understanding human rights treaties and their implementation.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship, which is particularly beneficial for students or recent graduates looking to enter the field of international human rights. The internship is designed to provide practical experience and exposure to the workings of the UN and its human rights mechanisms, making it accessible to individuals at the beginning of their careers.

Languages:
Fluency in either English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is considered an asset. Additionally, familiarity with another United Nations official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, would be advantageous and could enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
Interns will not receive financial remuneration from the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. 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 that the application and selection process remains accessible to all qualified candidates.