Internship in the Editorial Unit

Internship in the Editorial Unit

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

June 15, 2025June 26, 2025GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN Human Rights) is the leading UN entity on human rights, representing the world's commitment to the promotion and protection of the full range of human rights and freedoms as set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Established in 2013, the External Engagement and Partnerships Service (EPS) works to create synergies between different external relations services to maximize the impact of their work. The EPS comprises five thematic areas/units: Audio-visual, Graphic Design, Social Media, Editorial, and Web. The Communications and Public Mobilization Section develops and implements strategies to improve general awareness of human rights issues and generates support for OHCHR's work in human rights.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds to gain exposure to the work of the United Nations through their service within Secretariat entities. The internship is unpaid and requires full-time engagement. Interns will work primarily with the Editorial Unit, assisting in various tasks related to content creation for the UN Human Rights website, newsletters, social media, and public information campaigns. The role requires a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and the ability to interact successfully with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Interns will report to the Head of the Editorial Unit and may also receive assignments from the Chief of Communications.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include assisting in the production of a bi-monthly newsletter, which involves layout design, information gathering, sending out the newsletter, and monitoring metrics with reporting. They will also assist in producing weekly emails regarding upcoming communication products and social media metrics. Conducting research based on official UN documentation for drafting feature stories is another key responsibility. The intern will help prepare public information campaigns and outreach activities, as well as gather feedback on campaigns. Additionally, they will assist in developing and branding public information products such as fact sheets and brochures, research and draft texts for the OHCHR website, liaise with OHCHR field presences and the UN Department of Public Information, organize materials for distribution to partners, coordinate briefings for visiting groups, and assist in monitoring and evaluating campaigns and communication products. Attendance at relevant meetings is also expected.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree, master's, or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. A keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals are essential. The ability to interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program. This educational background is crucial for understanding the work and functions of the United Nations and its various entities.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, a demonstrated interest in human rights and the workings of the United Nations is essential. Interns should be prepared to engage in a full-time internship that provides practical experience in a professional setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, and familiarity with another United Nations official language (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) would be advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
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