Internship in Social Development Division

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Social Development Division of the United Nations, which focuses on various aspects of social development including demographic transitions, socio-economic transformations, and gender equality. The division is committed to addressing issues such as inequality, social protection, population dynamics, and the rights of marginalized groups. The UN has a global presence and operates in numerous countries, working towards sustainable development goals and promoting social inclusion.

Job Overview:
The internship in the Sustainable Demographic Transition Section is designed for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in social development and demographic analysis. Interns will work full-time for a duration of 3-6 months, under the supervision of experienced staff members. The role involves engaging with critical issues such as population trends, international migration, and the implications of demographic changes on sustainable development. Interns will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that align with the UN's 2030 Agenda, particularly in relation to youth engagement and the rights of older persons. This position is ideal for those looking to enhance their research, analytical, and communication skills in a professional setting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will undertake a variety of tasks that contribute to the work of the Sustainable Demographic Transition Section. Responsibilities include conducting literature reviews and data analysis on demographic trends and their implications for sustainable development. Interns will assist in organizing meetings, preparing relevant materials, and reviewing documents for clarity and accuracy. They will also develop audio-visual materials to effectively communicate policy messages to diverse audiences. Additionally, interns will analyze data using Excel and other statistical tools, and may be assigned other duties by the Chief of Section or professional staff as needed. This hands-on experience will provide interns with insights into the workings of the UN and the challenges faced in social development.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific educational requirements to be considered for the internship. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not mandatory, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential. Candidates should possess strong knowledge of standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams. Skills in drafting articles or social media posts, as well as designing surveys and polls, are considered advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes either a graduate degree or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree program. This ensures that candidates have a solid foundation in relevant fields such as social sciences, public policy, or international relations, which are pertinent to the work of the Sustainable Demographic Transition Section. The emphasis on related fields of study highlights the importance of having theoretical knowledge that can be applied in practical settings.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not a requirement for this internship, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and relevant coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and gain experience in the field of social development, making it suitable for recent graduates or students nearing the completion of their studies.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, particularly Chinese or Russian, is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's application. This requirement reflects the UN's commitment to multilingualism and effective communication across diverse cultural contexts.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are expected to cover their own expenses related to travel, accommodation, and living costs. Interns 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 candidates to discuss their visa requirements with the UN prior to accepting an internship offer. The UN emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably.