Communications Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional commission established by the United Nations in 197

• Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCWA works with member states to formulate policies and strategies that address the challenges faced by the region, focusing on sustainable development, social justice, and economic growth. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, engaging with various stakeholders including governments, civil society, and the private sector. ESCWA employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to advancing the UN's goals and objectives in the region.

Job Overview:
The intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Communications Intern position at ESCWA is designed to provide support in media relations and communication strategies. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Secretary of the Commission and the Chief of External Relations and Outreach. The role involves assisting in the creation and dissemination of communication materials, monitoring media coverage, and engaging with various media platforms. The intern will gain hands-on experience in the field of communications within an international organization, contributing to the visibility and outreach of ESCWA's work. This internship is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in pursuing a career in communications, public relations, or international relations, as it offers exposure to the inner workings of a UN agency and the chance to work on impactful projects.

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

• Assisting in drafting and preparing press releases to communicate ESCWA's initiatives and events to the public.
• Supporting the reporting process for news stories related to ESCWA's work, ensuring accurate and timely dissemination of information.
• Attending and assisting in covering conferences and meetings, which may involve taking notes, capturing key moments, and providing logistical support.
• Taking photos and videos at conferences and events to create engaging content for social media and other communication channels.
• Preparing posts for various social media platforms to enhance ESCWA's online presence and engage with a broader audience.
• Compiling social media analytics and trends to assess the impact of communication efforts and inform future strategies.
• Conducting research on issues related to the work of the Commission to support communication initiatives.
• Monitoring media coverage and analyzing public perception of ESCWA's activities.
• Assisting in other ad-hoc activities as required by the communications team.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent), or have graduated with a university degree.
• Be computer literate in standard software applications, demonstrating proficiency in tools commonly used in communications and media.
• Exhibit a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.
• Demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing a willingness to understand and respect differing opinions and views. No previous experience is required for this internship, making it accessible for students and recent graduates.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, which includes being enrolled in or having completed a university degree. This could be a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, international relations, or a related field. Graduate students or those pursuing advanced degrees are particularly encouraged to apply, as they may bring additional insights and skills to the role. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the internship, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and understanding of international issues.

Experience:
This internship does not require any previous work experience, making it an ideal opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the field of communications. The focus is on providing a learning environment where interns can develop their skills and knowledge while contributing to the work of ESCWA. Candidates should be eager to learn and demonstrate a proactive approach to their responsibilities, as well as a willingness to engage with various tasks and challenges that may arise during the internship.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must be able to speak, read, write, and understand both languages at a fluent level. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. This multilingual requirement reflects the diverse nature of the organization and its commitment to effective communication across different cultural contexts.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last for a minimum of two months on a full-time basis, with the possibility of extension for a maximum period of six months. Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns must provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship and submit a medical certificate of good health prior to starting. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information. The position allows for flexible working arrangements, contingent upon written agreement by the receiving entity, but interns must commit to completing their internship within the specified timeframe.