Drug Control Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Established in 1997, UNODC operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to assist member states in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, organized crime, and terrorism. The organization aims to promote justice and the rule of law, enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies, and support health authorities in addressing drug-related issues. UNODC's work is guided by the principles of the United Nations Charter, focusing on human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Drug Control Intern position is an internship opportunity designed for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in the field of drug control and international law enforcement. The internship is set to commence in May 2025 and will last for a duration of four to six months. The intern will work in-person and full-time, dedicating approximately 40 hours per week, although this can be adjusted based on the intern's requests. This position is unpaid, and the intern will be involved in various activities related to the Mekong MOU Secretariat, which focuses on enhancing drug control efforts in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The intern will support the organization and coordination of events, assist in drafting reports and advocacy materials, and conduct research on relevant topics. This role provides a unique opportunity to engage with international organizations and contribute to significant initiatives in drug control.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: drafting concept notes and invitations for planned activities; coordinating nominations with invited countries; assisting with presentations, documentation, and photo taking; preparing and summarizing evaluation and feedback forms; drafting activity reports with recommendations; creating web stories and advocacy materials; conducting research on drug control topics; and performing other tasks as assigned by the Regional Office. The intern will report directly to the Regional Coordinator of the Mekong MOU, ensuring that all activities align with the objectives of the UNODC and the Mekong MOU.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have recently completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or be enrolled in or have recently completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Additionally, candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications, demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in their final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have recently completed such programs. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided with the application. The educational background should ideally be in fields related to international relations, law, public policy, or other relevant disciplines that align with the objectives of the internship.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, applicants should have relevant academic experience or coursework that pertains to drug control, international law, or related fields. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in a professional setting, particularly within the context of the United Nations and international cooperation.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship. Knowledge of French is beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Additionally, knowledge of Chinese is considered an advantage, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and resources.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants can apply without financial burden.