Political Affairs 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 human rights. The UN operates in various countries around the world, with a significant presence in conflict-affected regions. The organization employs thousands of individuals across diverse fields, working towards its goals of fostering international collaboration and improving the lives of people globally.

Job Overview:
The Political intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the United Nations, specifically in the Analysis and Outreach Hub on Children and Armed Conflict located in Doha, Qatar. The intern will work under the supervision of the Head of the Analysis and Outreach Hub, engaging in various projects and initiatives that align with the mandate of the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC). The role is designed for individuals who are passionate about the protection of children in conflict zones and are eager to contribute to meaningful research and outreach efforts. The internship is expected to last for three months, starting on June 2, 2025, and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week, although part-time arrangements may be considered depending on the intern's circumstances. This position is unpaid, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience and contributing to the UN's mission rather than financial remuneration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Political Affairs Intern, the individual will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the work of the OSRSG-CAAC. Key responsibilities include conducting thorough research and reference searches on issues related to children and armed conflict, which encompasses political, security, and humanitarian developments. The intern will participate in meetings with stakeholders, contributing to collaborative projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the protection of children affected by armed conflict. Additionally, the intern will attend conferences and meetings, taking detailed notes to assist in the documentation of discussions. The role also involves preparing reports, concept papers, policy documents, talking points, and articles, as well as performing administrative tasks as needed. This diverse set of responsibilities provides a comprehensive understanding of the UN's operations and the complexities surrounding children in conflict situations.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet specific educational requirements. Candidates should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, candidates must be computer literate in standard software such as Microsoft Excel, MS Word, and Teams or similar applications. A keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter are essential. Furthermore, candidates should demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, showcasing a willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions and views.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes either a graduate degree or a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. This could encompass areas such as international relations, political science, human rights, or social sciences. The emphasis is on candidates who have a strong academic foundation and are capable of applying their knowledge to real-world situations, particularly those related to children and armed conflict. The UN values educational diversity and encourages applicants from various academic disciplines to apply, provided they meet the basic educational criteria.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. The UN recognizes that internships are primarily educational opportunities designed to provide practical experience. Therefore, candidates are encouraged to leverage their training, education, and any advanced coursework or skills that may benefit the organization during their internship. This approach allows individuals to gain valuable insights into the workings of the UN while contributing to its mission without the necessity of previous professional experience.

Languages:
For this position, fluency in both English and Arabic is required, as these are essential for effective communication within the UN's working environment. Additionally, proficiency in French is beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and resources.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. Therefore, candidates should be prepared to cover their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Qatar to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. Successful candidates are advised to discuss their specific visa requirements with the UN before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, it is crucial to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.