Economic Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (OHRLLS) is part of the United Nations and focuses on supporting the development needs of the least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. The office aims to promote sustainable development and enhance the capacity of these countries to participate in the global economy. Established as part of the UN's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by these nations, OHRLLS works with various stakeholders to implement policies and programs that foster economic growth and development. The organization operates globally, engaging with member states and international organizations to advocate for the interests of these vulnerable countries.

Job Overview:
The Economic intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position at OHRLLS is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the field of economic affairs within the United Nations framework. The internship is structured to last for two months, with the possibility of extension up to six months, depending on departmental needs. Interns will be expected to work full-time, typically five days a week, totaling 35 hours. The internship is primarily in-person at the New York duty station, but there is flexibility for remote work arrangements based on the intern's situation. Interns will be supervised by a staff member and will engage in various tasks that align with their academic background and the needs of the office. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the UN's mission while developing professional skills in a dynamic international environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a diverse range of responsibilities, which may include: assisting in drafting and preparing official documents, attending and summarizing conferences and meetings, conducting document, legal, and internet research, providing assistance during conferences, working on web presentations, evaluating projects, compiling statistics, performing media analysis, and engaging in speechwriting. The specific duties will vary based on the intern's assigned office and the internship period, allowing for a tailored experience that reflects the intern's skills and interests.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application: they should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or they should be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, as computer literacy is essential for the role. Importantly, no prior work experience is required to apply for this internship, making it accessible for students and recent graduates looking to gain experience in the UN system.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes either a graduate degree or a bachelor's degree. Candidates should be enrolled in a relevant academic program that aligns with the functions of the internship, such as international relations, economics, public policy, or a related field. This educational foundation will help interns contribute effectively to the work of OHRLLS and the broader objectives of the United Nations.

Experience:
This internship does not require any previous work experience, making it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain their first professional experience in an international organization. The focus is on the candidate's educational background and skills rather than prior employment history, allowing for a diverse range of applicants to participate.

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 an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages is highly valued in the UN environment, as it facilitates communication and collaboration across diverse teams.

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 the United States 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 before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process remains accessible and equitable for all candidates.