Internship in Communications and External Relations

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which is a part of the United Nations. UNCTAD was established in 1964 and has a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering economic growth and development.

Job Overview:
This internship position is situated within the Communications and External Relations (CER) office of the Secretary-General at UNCTAD, based in Geneva, Switzerland. The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of five days a week, totaling 40 hours. Interns are expected to work on various projects that enhance the visibility and understanding of UNCTAD’s initiatives, particularly in areas such as sustainable development, trade, investment, finance, and the digital economy. Interns will assist in creating compelling content, performing edits, and supporting multimedia content development. They will also be involved in identifying modern editorial practices, including the use of Artificial Intelligence tools to improve workflow efficiency. The internship provides an opportunity for training and mentoring from senior staff and colleagues, ensuring that interns gain valuable experience and skills during their time at UNCTAD.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Assisting in the creation of engaging content related to sustainable development, trade, investment, finance, and the digital economy.
• Performing initial edits and contributing to the drafting and editing of content for both digital and print formats.
• Supporting the development of multimedia content that aligns with UNCTAD’s goals.
• Identifying and implementing the latest editorial practices, including the use of AI tools to enhance communication workflows.
• Observing all applicable rules and regulations of the UN, ensuring compliance with the organization’s directives.
• Providing copies of all materials prepared during the internship to the receiving departments.
• Respecting the confidentiality and impartiality required by the UN, refraining from sharing any non-public information.
• Conducting oneself in a manner that reflects positively on the UN and its objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in Journalism, English, Communications, Writing, International Relations, or a related field. Strong analytical abilities and a keen interest in modern editorial practices are essential. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills are required, along with good analytical skills. Experience with modern editorial practices, including agile or scrum methodologies, and familiarity with new media tools, such as large language models (LLMs) and AI-driven editorial technologies, will be considered advantageous. While professional work experience is not mandatory, a relevant field of study is required for applicants to the UN Internship Programme.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. Proof of enrollment or completion must be provided as part of the application process, including an official certificate at a later stage if required.

Experience:
While applicants are not required to have professional work experience, they should have a field of study closely related to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that candidates have a foundational understanding of the subject matter and can contribute effectively during their internship.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of French and Spanish is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for all personal costs, including travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. Interns must have valid health insurance coverage in Switzerland and may need a visa for the duration of the internship. The internship is expected to last from June 10, 2025, to September 9, 202

• Candidates will be assessed based on their Personal History Profiles (PHP), and individual interviews may be conducted for further evaluation. A complete online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile, is required, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed. It is important to note that there is no expectation of employment within the UN following the internship, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional-level positions within the UN for six months after their internship ends. Additionally, applicants who are related to UN staff members must meet specific criteria to be eligible for the internship.