Intern - Administrative Law Division

Intern - Administrative Law Division

United Nations Secretariat

May 11, 2025June 16, 2025New YorkUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations is an intergovernmental 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, addressing global challenges such as human rights, development, and humanitarian issues. The organization operates in various countries around the world, employing thousands of staff members across diverse fields.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Administrative Law Division (ALD) of the United Nations offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in administrative law within an international context. This internship is designed for a duration of three months, with the possibility of extension based on the division's needs. Interns will work under the guidance of experienced Legal Officers or Conduct and Discipline Officers, engaging in a variety of tasks that will enhance their understanding of legal processes and administrative law. The role is particularly suited for those who are passionate about the ideals of the United Nations and wish to contribute to its mission while developing their professional skills in a multicultural environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be involved in a range of responsibilities that include assisting in the preparation of legal advice on appeals and disciplinary matters, conducting reviews of ongoing allegations of misconduct, and preparing communications to Member States. They will also assist in reviewing and updating conduct and discipline-related policy documents, conducting legal research, and analyzing issues related to the application of the Staff Regulations and Rules. Furthermore, interns will support counsel in preparing submissions for proceedings before the United Nations Dispute Tribunal (UNDT), draft various legal documents, attend meetings and conferences to take notes, and contribute to information management practices. Additionally, they may work on the Conduct and Discipline website and assist in creating presentations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong communication skills, demonstrating the ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally. They should be able to listen actively, interpret messages accurately, and engage in constructive dialogue. Teamwork is essential, as interns will collaborate with colleagues to achieve organizational goals, valuing diverse perspectives and contributing to a positive team environment. Planning and organizing skills are also crucial, enabling interns to set clear goals, prioritize tasks, and manage their time efficiently. Proficiency in standard software applications is required, along with a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals. Additionally, candidates should show cultural sensitivity and the ability to interact effectively with individuals from various backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent) or in the final year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level). Alternatively, candidates who have graduated with a university degree must commence the internship within one year of graduation. For those studying in systems where higher education is not divided into undergraduate and graduate stages, completion of at least four years of full-time studies towards a degree in Law or a related field is required.

Experience:
No prior working experience is necessary to apply for this internship. However, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or skills that would be beneficial to the United Nations during their internship. This could include coursework, volunteer work, or other experiences that demonstrate their commitment to the field of administrative law and the mission of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and familiarity with another official United Nations language is considered an advantage. This linguistic proficiency will enable interns to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and candidates must submit a completed online application, including a cover note and Personal History Profile (PHP). Incomplete applications will not be considered. The cover note should detail the title and date of the most recent degree, the title of any degree currently pursued, the expected graduation date, a list of IT skills, and an explanation of why the candidate is the best fit for the Administrative Law Division. Additionally, candidates should indicate their availability, including preferred start and end dates for the internship. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.
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