Economic and Social Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional commission of the United Nations established in 197

• Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCWA focuses on various issues including gender equality, social justice, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. The organization operates in 22 member countries across the Arab region and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by these nations. ESCWA aims to provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration among member states to foster inclusive and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located within the ESCWA Cluster on 'Gender Justice, Population and Inclusive Development'. This cluster is dedicated to advancing gender equality and justice, promoting inclusive social development, and addressing critical issues such as poverty, unemployment, and migration. Interns will play a vital role in supporting the cluster's activities and programs, contributing to research and analysis that informs policy and decision-making. The intern will assist in various tasks, including conducting literature reviews, drafting reports, and organizing events, all aimed at enhancing the cluster's impact on gender and social development in the region. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a UN environment while contributing to meaningful work that aligns with the United Nations' mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties that support the ESCWA cluster's objectives. Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting substantive research on topics relevant to the cluster's work, including reviewing existing literature and assisting in formulating research questions.
• Assisting in the preparation and review of written outputs, such as background papers, technical documents, and sections of reports.
• Drafting inputs for presentations and research papers to communicate findings effectively.
• Supporting the organization of expert group meetings, conferences, and workshops that relate to the cluster's focus areas.
• Taking minutes during meetings and ensuring accurate documentation of discussions and decisions.
• Performing additional tasks as assigned by the cluster team to facilitate the smooth operation of its activities.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Enrollment in a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or in the final year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level). Alternatively, applicants may have recently graduated with a relevant university degree.
• Proficiency in standard software applications is essential.
• A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals is required.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds are crucial, including a willingness to understand and respect differing opinions.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a relevant academic program. This includes those pursuing a master's degree or those in their final year of undergraduate studies. The educational background should ideally be in fields related to social sciences, international relations, gender studies, or other relevant disciplines that align with the work of ESCWA.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in the United Nations' mission and the specific focus areas of the ESCWA cluster. This internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to the organization's goals, making it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as these are the primary working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four language skills: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This internship is offered on a full-time basis for a minimum duration of two months, with the possibility of extending up to six months. Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns must also provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship and submit a medical certificate of good health prior to starting. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any fraudulent requests for personal information.