Protocol Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries, including China, where it aims to support the government in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Country Team in China consists of multiple UN entities working collaboratively to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness at the country level.

Job Overview:
The Protocol Intern position at the UN Resident Coordinator's Office (RCO) in China is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in international relations and protocol management. The intern will work under the supervision of the UN Partnership and Financing Officer, assisting in engaging with government counterparts on protocol-related issues. This role is crucial for supporting the UN's mission in China, particularly in fostering partnerships with the government to achieve the SDGs. The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week over a six-month period, from May 5, 2025, to November 4, 202

• The intern will be involved in various tasks, including preparing draft documents and liaising with government departments, ensuring adherence to both UN and Chinese government protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protocol Intern will have a range of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Preparing draft Note Verbales to government counterparts, particularly the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, regarding diplomatic immunities and privileges of the RCO and its members.
• Engaging with government counterparts under the guidance of the UN Partnership Officer to address practical protocol-related issues.
• Supporting the UN Country Team by responding to their requests for assistance from the RCO on protocol matters.
• Assisting with logistics and substantive support for incoming high-level UN delegations, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication.
• Collaborating closely with the Partnership and Financing Officer and other stakeholders, including government partners and think tanks, to ensure successful completion of assigned tasks. The intern's responsibilities may vary based on their background and the duration of the internship.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required for this internship, candidates should have a field of study closely related to the internship's focus, such as international relations, public policy, or diplomacy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, which can include enrollment in or completion of a graduate program or the final year of an undergraduate program. The field of study should ideally align with the responsibilities of the internship, emphasizing international relations, public administration, or similar disciplines that provide a foundation for understanding protocol and diplomatic practices.

Experience:
This internship does not require prior professional work experience. However, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background in a relevant field and possess skills that align with the duties of the position. The internship is designed for individuals looking to gain practical experience in a professional setting, particularly within the context of international organizations.

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 is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Additionally, proficiency in Chinese is considered an advantage, as it facilitates communication with local government counterparts and enhances the intern's ability to navigate the protocol landscape in China.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of China may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the UN prior to accepting the internship offer. The UN emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable selection process.