Public Information Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) is dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights globally. Established to ensure that all individuals can enjoy their rights, the OHCHR works towards empowering people and assisting those responsible for upholding human rights. The organization operates in various countries around the world, engaging with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to promote human rights standards and practices. The OHCHR is a part of the United Nations system and plays a crucial role in addressing human rights violations and advocating for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Public intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Information Intern will support the OHCHR in its mission to protect human rights for all individuals. This internship is designed for individuals who are passionate about human rights and wish to gain practical experience in public information and outreach. The intern will be involved in researching current human rights issues, maintaining media lists, conducting media monitoring, and assisting in the preparation of materials for press conferences and events. The role requires a proactive approach to learning and contributing to the OHCHR's communication efforts, particularly around significant events such as Human Rights Day. The intern will work closely with the Public Information Officer and will be expected to draft articles and social media posts, as well as assist in researching materials for speeches.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's daily responsibilities will include: researching current human rights issues to support media and public information outreach; maintaining and updating media mailing lists; conducting media monitoring and compiling media clippings related to the work of the OHCHR, Treaty Bodies, and Special Rapporteurs; assisting in the preparation of materials for press conferences; helping to set up and run events, particularly around Human Rights Day; drafting website articles and social media posts; and performing other related duties as requested by the supervisor. The intern will gain valuable insights into the workings of the UN and the importance of effective communication in promoting human rights.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the United Nations Secretariat internship programme, applicants must be enrolled in the final academic year of a first-level university degree programme (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) or in a graduate school programme (Master's degree or equivalent) or have completed one of these degrees. The field of study should preferably be in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. While professional work experience is not required, a relevant field of study is essential for this internship.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in a university degree programme at the time of application. This includes those in their final year of undergraduate studies or those pursuing a graduate degree. The educational background should ideally be in areas related to human rights, law, political science, or international relations, which will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the work of the OHCHR and the broader context of human rights issues.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have a strong academic background in a relevant field. This internship is particularly suited for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of human rights and public information. The internship is an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting and to develop skills that are valuable in the human rights sector.

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 French, another official UN language, is also required. Additionally, familiarity with any other official UN languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish would be considered an advantage, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the OHCHR's communication efforts.

Additional Notes:
This internship is expected to last for 3-4 months and is unpaid. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States to obtain the necessary visa and work authorization before starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all qualified candidates.