Legal Affairs Intern

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Position Title: Legal intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern
Location: New York City
Country: United States
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) is part of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) within the United Nations. The organization is dedicated to promoting the sustainable use and conservation of the oceans and their resources, ensuring that international law is upheld in ocean affairs. Established as part of the UN's efforts to address global maritime issues, DOALOS plays a crucial role in facilitating international cooperation and providing legal guidance on matters related to the law of the sea. The organization operates globally, engaging with member states and various stakeholders to promote effective governance of ocean resources. The number of employees varies, but the organization is known for its diverse and multicultural workforce, reflecting the international nature of its mission. DOALOS is involved in numerous initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing the understanding and implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Job Overview:
The Legal Affairs Intern position at DOALOS offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to gain professional experience in the field of ocean affairs and the law of the sea. Interns will work under supervision, engaging in various projects that allow them to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting. The internship is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks governing ocean affairs, including the review and drafting of legal documents, conducting legal research, and assisting in the organization of conferences and meetings. Interns will also have the chance to work in a multicultural environment, collaborating with professionals from diverse backgrounds and contributing to the UN's mission of promoting sustainable ocean governance. This position is ideal for those who are passionate about international law and environmental issues, and who wish to make a meaningful contribution to the work of the United Nations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the work of DOALOS. These duties include: conducting legal research on ocean affairs and the law of the sea, utilizing multiple research resources; reviewing legal documents, instruments, and other materials; drafting and preparing official and legal documents; attending conferences and meetings, taking notes, and assisting in the servicing of these events; working on the development and maintenance of websites and presentations; and performing other duties as assigned by supervisors. The internship is structured to provide interns with hands-on experience in the legal aspects of ocean governance, allowing them to develop their skills and knowledge in a real-world context.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a degree program in law or a closely related field. The United Nations Internship Programme requires candidates to meet specific educational criteria at the time of application. This includes being enrolled in or having completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or being enrolled in or having completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of legal principles and their application to ocean affairs, as well as a commitment to the values and goals of the United Nations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in or completion of a degree program in law or a related field. Candidates should have a solid foundation in legal studies, with coursework that is relevant to ocean affairs and international law. This may include subjects such as environmental law, maritime law, international relations, and policy analysis. The internship is particularly suited for those who are pursuing advanced degrees or have recently graduated, as it aims to enhance their practical skills and knowledge in a professional setting.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not required for this internship, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or advanced coursework that aligns with the work of DOALOS. This may include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects that demonstrate a commitment to ocean affairs and the law of the sea. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to the UN's mission, making it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to gain valuable experience in international law and environmental governance.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it is also a working language of the UN. Additionally, proficiency in another United Nations official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, would be considered an advantage. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, to fulfill the responsibilities of the internship.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last between two to six months, with a desired start date ranging from August 1, 2025, to December 31, 202

• Interns are required to work full-time and in-person, typically five days a week, under the supervision of managers. However, a hybrid or remote internship setting may be considered based on requests from successful candidates. It is important to note that interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Additionally, 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. The United Nations emphasizes a commitment to gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply for this internship program.