Intern - Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) was established to address issues related to drugs, crime, and terrorism. It operates globally, promoting adherence to international treaties and assisting member states in implementing them effectively. UNODC's mission includes enhancing international cooperation, providing technical assistance, and ensuring the protection of human rights. The organization has a diverse workforce and operates in numerous countries, focusing on various aspects of crime prevention and criminal justice.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located within the Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Section (HTMSS) of the Organized Crime and Illicit Trafficking Branch (OCB) at UNODC. The intern will play a crucial role in supporting the daily communication efforts of the HTMSS, which is dedicated to advancing the international agenda on countering trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants. This role involves engaging in various tasks that contribute to the dissemination of knowledge and legislative assistance to UN Member States. The internship is designed for a duration of six months, ideally starting in July 2025, and is unpaid, requiring a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week. Interns will work under the supervision of professional staff and will gain valuable experience in international relations and communication strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include tracking, researching, and analyzing information on assigned topics, gathering data from diverse sources, and assessing news value and potential impacts. The intern will draft web stories and social media posts, create and update a monthly newsletter, assist in implementing communication campaigns, maintain and update the Section's website, develop graphics for social media and the website, and prepare monthly reports for website and social media analytics. Additionally, the intern may be assigned other duties as necessary to support the Section's objectives.

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, international relations, or a related field is essential. Candidates should possess sound analytical skills, good drafting abilities, and proficiency in computer applications such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals are also required. While professional work experience is not mandatory, a relevant field of study is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor's or equivalent), or enrolled in or have recently completed a master's or Ph.D. program. Official written proof from the university supporting the applicant's eligibility must be attached to the application. This educational background ensures that interns have the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the UNODC's mission.

Experience:
While applicants are not required to have prior professional work experience, they must have a field of study closely related to the internship. This ensures that interns possess the foundational knowledge necessary to engage with the tasks and responsibilities of the position effectively. The internship is designed to provide practical experience and exposure to the workings of the United Nations, particularly in the areas of human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as English 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. This multilingual requirement reflects the diverse nature of the UN's operations and the importance of effective communication across different languages and cultures.

Additional Notes:
The 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. It is essential for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.