Internship in Policy Planning Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Secretariat is an international organization founded in 1945, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. It employs thousands of individuals from diverse backgrounds and operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on various global issues such as human rights, development, and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law. The organization is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The internship in the Policy Planning Unit is designed to provide practical experience in the workings of the United Nations, particularly in the areas of international peace and security, multilateralism, and diplomacy. The intern will work under the supervision of the Team Leader and will have the opportunity to engage in various tasks that contribute to the Unit's objectives. The internship is expected to last for six months, starting on or around August 1, 2025, and while it is primarily in-person, there is flexibility for remote work. The position is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel and living expenses. This role is ideal for individuals looking to gain insight into international affairs and the operations of a major global institution.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: attending meetings, events, and conferences, and drafting summary reports, minutes, and notes; assisting in the organization of events, both online and on-site, which involves planning, administration, coordination, and logistics; conducting research and policy analysis on topics relevant to the Unit's interests; preparing reports, concept papers, policy documents, and presentations; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor. The intern will gain hands-on experience in the field of international relations and will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants 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 degree or equivalent). Additionally, candidates should be proficient in standard software applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. A strong interest in the work of the United Nations and in research and drafting related to international affairs is essential. The ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is also required, demonstrating tolerance and understanding of differing opinions and views.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess at least a bachelor's degree or be in the final year of their undergraduate studies. Those pursuing or having completed a graduate degree are also eligible. The educational background should ideally be in fields related to international relations, political science, public policy, or similar disciplines that provide a foundation for understanding the complexities of global governance and diplomacy.

Experience:
While prior experience is not strictly required, any relevant internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to international affairs, diplomacy, or policy analysis will be advantageous. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in a professional setting, particularly within the context of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, making proficiency in these languages particularly valuable.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and all costs related to travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern. The United Nations encourages applications from female candidates and individuals from diverse backgrounds to promote inclusivity. Applicants who have previously served as interns in the UN Common System for a total of six months are not eligible for this position. Additionally, family members of current UN staff are also ineligible. Candidates must provide a motivational statement detailing their interest in the internship, their degree program, and why they believe they are suitable for the role. A complete online application, including a Personal History Profile with past work experiences and references, is required.