Internship in Intergovernmental Policy and Review Branch

Job Posting Organization:
The Intergovernmental Policy and Review Branch (IPRB) is part of the Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development (OISC) within the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. The organization focuses on supporting intergovernmental deliberations and promoting sustainable development initiatives globally. Established to facilitate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, IPRB plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts among member states and various stakeholders. The organization operates in multiple countries, engaging with international partners to advance economic and social development goals.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the IPRB is designed for individuals with a strong background in international relations, economics, sustainable development, or related social sciences. Interns will be expected to provide substantive support to the United Nations' intergovernmental processes, particularly those related to the General Assembly, Economic and Social Council, and the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. The role involves assisting in analytical preparations, supporting negotiations, conducting research, and preparing documentation for various sustainable development activities. Interns will gain valuable experience in international diplomacy and policy-making while contributing to the UN's mission of promoting sustainable development globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Assisting in the analytical preparations and providing substantive support for the General Assembly’s Second Committee, ECOSOC, and the HLPF.
• Supporting intergovernmental negotiations through substantive coverage and follow-up analysis.
• Conducting analytical research to support the work of the GA, ECOSOC, and HLPF.
• Assisting in the preparations for ECOSOC and HLPF activities and events focused on sustainable development.
• Carrying out research related to the follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals.
• Assisting in the preparations for the HLPF, including research, coordination with resource people, and preparation of documentation and visual materials for meetings.
• Supporting the IPRB technical team in uploading materials and updating the DESA and HLPF official websites.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent); or (c) be within a few years from graduation and in an early stage of their careers, subject to review on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, applicants should be computer literate in standard software applications and possess knowledge of sustainable development issues, which would be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate openness in sharing information and keeping stakeholders informed.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in a graduate program or being in the final year of an undergraduate program. A degree in international relations, economics, sustainable development, or a related social science is preferred. The internship is suitable for individuals who are either pursuing advanced studies or are at the beginning of their professional careers, allowing for a diverse range of applicants.

Experience:
The position is designed for individuals who may not have extensive professional experience but are eager to learn and contribute to the UN's mission. Interns may be first-time entrants into the workforce or individuals transitioning careers. The internship provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in international policy and sustainable development, making it ideal for recent graduates or students nearing graduation.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship program. Knowledge of French, one of the working languages of the United Nations, is also necessary. Additionally, familiarity with other official UN languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this role.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. 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 prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process.