Legal Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization is dedicated to addressing environmental issues at a global scale and operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders to foster sustainable practices. UNEP's Corporate Services Division (CSD) plays a crucial role in managing UNEP's corporate interests, mitigating risks, and supporting the organization with management tools and capacity building initiatives. The division ensures that UNEP operates efficiently and effectively, adhering to accountability requirements, rules, regulations, and the core values of the United Nations.

Job Overview:
The Legal Intern position is located within UNEP’s Corporate Services Division, specifically in the Legal Unit. The intern will work under the guidance of the Senior Legal Officer and will be involved in a variety of legal research and administrative tasks. The role is designed to provide practical experience in legal functions related to environmental governance and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law. The intern will assist in legal research, maintain legal documentation, and support the preparation of legal instruments and agreements. This position offers an opportunity to gain insights into the workings of international environmental law and the legal frameworks that govern the United Nations' operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Intern will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: assisting the Head of the Legal Unit with legal research and related functions; managing incoming requests for legal support and ensuring proper documentation; maintaining the Legal Unit Case Management System for tracking and analysis; collecting and analyzing data for reports and presentations; supporting administrative tasks such as processing travel requests and scheduling meetings; preparing and reviewing draft legal documents; conducting research on UN rules and regulations; and assisting with research in international law as it pertains to public institutions. The intern may also take on additional responsibilities as assigned by the Head of the Legal Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a degree program in Law. They must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Proof of enrollment or graduation must be provided with the application.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a degree in Law or be in the process of completing such a degree. This includes being a student in the final year of a bachelor's degree program, or having completed a master's or Ph.D. program. The educational background should be relevant to the legal functions of the internship, ensuring that the intern has a foundational understanding of legal principles and practices.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This is an entry-level position aimed at students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in a legal environment within an international organization.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this internship position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN language, such as French, is desirable and may enhance the candidate's application, but it is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated for their work. All costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is located may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not subjected to any financial burdens related to their application.