Internship at the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the designated focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts to reduce disaster risks. The organization aims to ensure synergies among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations and regional organizations, addressing both developed and less developed countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG) and employs over 150 staff members at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in various regional offices. The organization plays a crucial role in guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, while also supporting regional and national efforts to reduce disaster risks and enhance global awareness through collaboration with U.N. Member States and a diverse range of partners, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the scientific community.

Job Overview:
The internship at UNDRR is designed to provide a comprehensive experience in event coordination, administrative support, outreach, and communications. Interns will work remotely and are expected to commit to a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week for a duration of six months. The internship is unpaid, and interns will report to the External Relations Officer at the UNDRR Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean. The role involves assisting in the planning and execution of the IX Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction for the Americas and the Caribbean 2026 (RP26), which includes both in-person and virtual sessions. Interns will gain valuable insights into the workings of international organizations and the importance of disaster risk reduction efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Event Coordination and Logistics: Interns will assist in planning and coordinating logistics for the RP26, ensuring efficient execution of various session formats. This includes identifying service providers for venues and online platforms, developing session agendas, and preparing event materials.
• Administrative and Procurement Support: Responsibilities include supporting procurement processes, managing participant registration, and maintaining event-related documentation.
• Outreach and Communications Support: Interns will draft announcements and social media content, develop outreach materials, and coordinate communications with event participants.
• Post-Event Activities: Interns will collect feedback, analyze participant surveys, and assist in preparing post-event reports that document lessons learned and best practices.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent). Candidates should be pursuing or have pursued a degree in a field related to the internship. Good knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word, PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is essential. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in or have completed a Master's or Ph.D. program. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided with the application. The field of study should be closely related to the internship role.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic backgrounds that align with the responsibilities of the position. This internship is particularly suitable for students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in international relations, disaster risk reduction, or related fields.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is required for this internship, as these are the primary languages of communication within the organization. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The 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 Panama may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, background, or disability status.