Intern - Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations that was established in 195

• Its mission is to promote the economic and social development of its member states, foster regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. ECA operates in 54 African countries and has a workforce of over 300 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including economic development, social development, and environmental sustainability, with a strong emphasis on supporting member states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The intern will play a crucial role in supporting the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in its efforts to ensure that the extraction and processing of raw materials during the green minerals boom contribute positively to the socioeconomic development of the continent. The intern will work under the supervision of an Economic Affairs Officer and will be involved in various activities aimed at aligning ECA's work with global and regional frameworks such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Mining Vision. The intern's responsibilities will include conducting research, analyzing data, and assisting in the organization of meetings and initiatives related to mineral-based development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will undertake several key activities to support ECA's work, including:

• Conducting desk research to map and analyze databases of mineral and natural resource data, identifying existing data and gaps at the regional level.
• Drafting summaries of research findings and conducting detailed analysis on mineral data in a specific country of focus.
• Assisting in the organization of the UN Extractives working group, which includes organizing meetings, taking notes, and drafting proposals for ECA's work in implementing the Secretary General’s Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals.
• Reviewing substantive documents and drafts produced by ECA on mineral-based development.
• Supporting ongoing initiatives such as the DRC-Zambia Battery and Electric Value Chain and the International Climate Initiative project on green and inclusive mining and manufacturing in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, such as a Master’s degree or higher, including Ph.D. or postgraduate degree). Additionally, candidates must be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent).

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have a strong educational background in fields related to economic affairs, environmental studies, or a related discipline. A graduate degree is preferred, but candidates with a completed undergraduate degree may also apply. The educational qualifications should align with the responsibilities of the internship, particularly in research and analysis of economic and environmental data.

Experience:
While specific prior work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of economic and environmental issues, particularly in relation to mineral resources and sustainable development. Experience in research, data analysis, or involvement in relevant academic projects will be advantageous.

Languages:
The job posting does not specify mandatory languages; however, proficiency in English is typically expected in UN internships. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the African region, may be considered an asset.

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 Ethiopia may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.