Strategic Communications 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. The UN operates in various fields including humanitarian aid, development, and human rights, with a workforce of over 44,000 employees worldwide. The organization is dedicated to addressing global challenges and fostering international collaboration to achieve sustainable development goals. The Department of Peace Operations (DPO) is one of the key departments within the UN, focusing on peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts across the globe.

Job Overview:
The Strategic intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Communications Intern will play a vital role in supporting the UN's communication efforts related to peacekeeping operations. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in strategic communications, digital media, and public relations within a global context. The intern will work closely with the DPO/SCS Public Information Officer and will be involved in various tasks that contribute to the overall mission of raising awareness and building support for UN Peacekeeping initiatives. The position requires a proactive approach to communication strategies, media relations, and digital content production, ensuring that the UN's messaging is effectively conveyed to diverse audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include assisting in the coordination of daily operations within the Strategic Communications Section, which encompasses both substantive and administrative tasks. This involves contributing to internal workflow processes, organizing team meetings, maintaining tracking tools and files, and liaising with other offices to ensure timely implementation of activities aligned with organizational priorities. The intern will conduct research and analysis on issues related to strategic communications and UN Peacekeeping, gathering information from various sources such as UN documents, media reports, and public data. Additionally, the intern will assist in preparing reports, briefing notes, and communication materials. Collaboration with the Strategic Communications Section will be essential, particularly in media relations and digital content production, including curating content for social media platforms and drafting UN Peacekeeping publications. The intern will also support the planning and execution of campaigns and public events, monitor media trends, and contribute creative ideas to enhance communication efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second 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 degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Proficiency in standard word processing and software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential. The ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is also required, demonstrating tolerance and understanding of differing opinions and views. Relevant training in communications, event planning, or public relations is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a field related to communications, public relations, international relations, or a similar discipline. The educational background should align closely with the responsibilities of the internship, ensuring that the intern possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the Strategic Communications Section.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, any relevant experience in communications, public relations, or related fields will be considered an asset. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in a dynamic international environment.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the 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 advantage and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week over a duration of six months. The expected start date is May 12, 2025, or sooner, and the internship will be conducted in a hybrid working arrangement at the UN premises in New York City. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants must provide a motivational statement detailing their interest in the internship, their degree program, and why they believe they are the best candidate. Additionally, applicants should include their past work experiences, IT skills, and three references in their online Personal History Profile. It is important to note that the UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses.