Intern - Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against transnational organized crime, including human trafficking and migrant smuggling. Established to promote adherence to international conventions and protocols, UNODC operates in numerous countries worldwide, providing technical assistance and fostering international cooperation to combat these crimes. The organization is dedicated to enhancing the capacity of member states to effectively implement measures against trafficking and smuggling, ensuring the protection of victims' rights. UNODC employs a diverse workforce committed to upholding the ideals of the United Nations and addressing complex global challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNODC focuses on supporting the Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Section (HTMSS) within the Organized Crime and Illicit Trafficking Branch. Interns will engage in various tasks that contribute to the organization's mission of combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling. This role is designed for individuals who are passionate about law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, human rights, and social justice. Interns will gain hands-on experience in research, project support, and policy development while working closely with experienced professionals in the field. The internship is full-time, requiring a commitment of 40 hours per week, and can be conducted either in-person in Vienna or remotely, providing flexibility for candidates.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting background research and analysis on trends and legal frameworks related to human trafficking and migrant smuggling; assisting in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of technical assistance projects; preparing training materials for capacity-building workshops; collecting and analyzing case-law; managing information on UNODC online platforms; identifying areas for knowledge development; preparing for intergovernmental meetings and thematic expert group discussions; drafting official submissions and guidance notes; liaising with UN offices and external organizations; preparing briefing notes and communication materials; compiling press clippings; and supporting the implementation of the UNODC Global Action against Trafficking in Persons and the Smuggling of Migrants.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being enrolled in or having recently completed a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree. A background in criminology, law, political or social sciences, or international relations is essential. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills, good drafting abilities, and proficiency in standard software applications such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and the ability to interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds are also required. While professional experience is not mandatory, a relevant field of study is necessary for consideration.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have recently completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. Official written proof from the university supporting the applicant's eligibility must be attached to the application. The educational background should be closely related to the internship's focus on human trafficking and migrant smuggling, ensuring that interns have the foundational knowledge necessary to contribute effectively to the team's work.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a requirement for this internship, applicants should have relevant academic experience in fields related to the internship's focus. This could include coursework, research projects, or volunteer work that demonstrates a commitment to understanding the complexities of human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

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 an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Austria may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.