Economic Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Environment and Development Division, specifically within the Sustainable Urban Development Section of the United Nations. The UN is a global organization founded in 1945, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries. It operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a focus on addressing global challenges such as sustainable development, human rights, and humanitarian assistance. The Sustainable Urban Development Section aims to foster sustainable and inclusive urban development in Asia and the Pacific, working closely with member states and stakeholders to achieve these goals.

Job Overview:
The Economic intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the field of sustainable urban development. Interns will work under the supervision of a staff member in the Sustainable Urban Development Section, contributing to various projects and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable urban practices. The internship is full-time and unpaid, requiring a commitment of five days per week for a minimum of four months, with the possibility of extension up to six months. Interns will engage in a range of activities, including organizing meetings, conducting research, and assisting with project implementation, all of which are crucial for enhancing awareness and decision-making in urban development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a diverse set of responsibilities that may vary based on their background and the specific office to which they are assigned. Key duties include:

• Supporting the organization and execution of meetings relevant to the Sustainable Urban Development Section's work, which involves drafting documents and communication materials, preparing for intergovernmental meetings, and following up on activities (40% of the time).
• Assisting with tasks related to the implementation of programs and projects, such as SDG Localization, urban climate action, and sustainable urban development initiatives (30% of the time).
• Conducting research and identifying case studies on urban development policies and their impacts on sustainability in the Asia-Pacific region (20% of the time).
• Participating in daily operational tasks, including responding to information requests, developing presentations, and updating web pages related to the section's work (10% of the time).

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 (second university degree or equivalent) in fields related to economics, urban planning, urban development, policy analysis, environmental management, sustainability, international relations, or similar areas; or (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent) in the same fields. Additionally, candidates should possess special skills such as proficiency in Microsoft Suite beyond basic applications, video-editing capabilities, and graphic design or illustration skills relevant to urban contexts.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, either being currently enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or the final year of an undergraduate program in fields such as economics, urban planning, urban development, environmental management, sustainability, or international relations. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of urban development and the policies that govern it.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, any relevant experience in urban development, policy analysis, or related fields will be advantageous. Interns should demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the dynamic environment of the United Nations and its various initiatives.

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 French is also beneficial, and familiarity with another language used in the Asia-Pacific region is considered an asset, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the application and selection process is free of charge.