Policy and Data Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Resident Coordinator System is a vital part of the United Nations, responsible for coordinating operational activities for development across various countries. The UNRC represents the UN Secretary-General and leads the UN Country Team (UNCT), ensuring that the development activities of the UN system are effectively managed and aligned with the needs of the countries they serve. The UNRC Office for Mauritius and Seychelles operates with a multi-country status, with its main office located in Mauritius and a liaison office in Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles. The organization focuses on strategic analysis, planning, and implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), which governs the cooperation between the UN and the governments of Mauritius and Seychelles to achieve their development priorities over a five-year period. The UNRC is committed to enhancing the coherence of the UN System through joint policy research and analysis, making it an exciting time for interns to engage with the UN's mission in these countries.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed for individuals who are passionate about the UN development system and eager to contribute to its mission. The intern will gain invaluable experience by supporting the UNRC's policy research and analysis efforts, which are crucial for the successful implementation of the UNSDCF 2024-202

• This role offers a unique opportunity to learn about the functions of various UN agencies, the programming processes at the country level, and the interactions between the UN and government counterparts. Interns will be involved in gathering and analyzing data, engaging in policy research, drafting policy briefs, and organizing key advocacy events that support regional and global campaigns. The internship is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the UN operates and the impact of its work on development priorities in Mauritius and Seychelles.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the Policy and data activities of the RCO and the UNCT. Key responsibilities include:

• Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering quantitative and qualitative data from diverse sources, ensuring accuracy and consistency, and utilizing software tools like Excel, SPSS, or Python for data analysis. The intern will prepare visual representations of data, such as charts and dashboards, to facilitate understanding and inform policy decisions.
• Policy Research and Support: Assisting in researching current policies relevant to the UNSDCF, comparing policies across regions, and reviewing academic and governmental publications to inform policy development. The intern will stay updated on emerging trends and regulatory changes that may impact the organization's objectives.
• Report/Policy Brief Writing and Documentation: Writing concise research summaries and policy briefs to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders, creating presentations to showcase insights and recommendations, and condensing complex information for decision-makers.
• Organizational Support: Helping to organize events or webinars focused on policy discussions or data sharing.
• Continuous Learning and Development: Engaging in training opportunities to enhance skills in policy analysis, data analytics, and research methodologies, while keeping abreast of new trends in these fields.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants for the UN Internship Programme are not required to have prior professional work experience; however, they must be pursuing a field of study closely related to the internship. Candidates should be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. Preferred fields of study include Public Policy, Public Administration, International Development Studies, International Relations, Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, Economics, or other relevant disciplines. Proof of eligibility must be provided with the application, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in their final year of a bachelor's degree or in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. The educational background should be closely related to the internship's focus areas, with preferred studies in fields such as Public Policy, Public Administration, International Development Studies, International Relations, Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, or Economics. This educational requirement ensures that interns have the foundational knowledge necessary to contribute effectively to the UN's work.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. The internship is particularly suited for students who are in their final year of undergraduate studies or those pursuing advanced degrees, as they will be expected to apply their academic knowledge to real-world scenarios within the UN framework.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the UN system, particularly in regions where French is widely spoken. Proficiency in both languages will be advantageous for the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to various projects.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. They are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship takes place may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is essential for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The UN emphasizes that there are no fees associated with any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not charged for applying, interviewing, or training.