Political Affairs / Human Rights (Jul 2024)

About United Nations

The United Nations is a global sentinel for cooperation, championing diplomacy over conflict and unity over division. Committed to fostering peace, development, and human rights, it transcends borders to address the world's most pressing challenges, epitomizing the collective aspirations of humanity toward a harmonious and just world.

Your role

The internship would normally be conducted onsite at the UNHQ - New York. However, there is a possibility to conduct the initial period in New York and the balance of the internship period working remotely. The granting of a remote internship is dependent on operational requirements and will be at the sole discretion of the United Nations.

Expected duration:

The internship is for a period of four to six months. The internship is unpaid. Interns work five days per week (35 hours) under the supervision of a staff member in OSCSEA. With a possible start date between 1st July and 31st December 2024.

Duties and responsibilities:

This internship is located in the Office of the Special Coordinator on Improving United Nations Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OSCSEA). The Office supports the ongoing efforts of the Secretary-General and the leadership of United Nations offices, departments, funds and programmes, along with other Implementing Partners, to strengthen the response to sexual exploitation and abuse in peacekeeping, humanitarian, development and human rights sectors.

Responsibilities Within the delegated authority the Political Affairs Intern will perform the following duties:

• Conduct research on issues related to the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, including data collection and analysis.
• Support in implementing internal and external communications strategies through the use of web-based tools.
• Provide general office support services, including drafting and/or processing a variety of correspondence and other communications.
• Assist in preparing, updating, and maintaining a variety of presentations and other communications materials.
• Undertake other responsibilities as required within the delegated authority of the Political Affairs Intern in the Office of the Special Coordinator on Improving United Nations Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OSCSEA

Training & development

During the internship, interns have the opportunity to enhance their skills in project management, research, and event organization, acquiring valuable experience in financial analysis, policy drafting, and data management within the realm of sustainable development at the United Nations.

Benefits

If you join as a full-time employee, you will get the following benefits:

• Holidays and leave
• Health insurance
• Retirement pension
• Tax exemption
• Allowances

Career progression

At the United Nations, interns gain practical experience through engaging in meaningful work across various fields, contributing to the UN's mission of promoting peace, sustainable development, and human rights. With a strong focus on mentorship and professional development, the program equips interns with the skills and knowledge necessary for future career advancement within the organization and other organizations.

Work-life balance

The United Nations strongly recognizes that interns need time for personal and social activities outside of work to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They provide opportunities for interns to engage in meaningful work while ensuring they have time for personal growth and well-being. Interns will work five days per week (35 hours) under the supervision of a staff member in the work unit to which they are assigned.

Culture & vibe

At the United Nations, the culture and vibe are truly exceptional. From savouring a delightful cup of coffee to engaging with talented colleagues, it's a place that offers insightful experiences in a friendly environment. Embracing diversity, the workspace becomes a vibrant hub of varied perspectives, while maintaining high standards for sustained success.

About you

Qualifications/special skills:

Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher).
• Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent).

Experience:

• No working experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme.
• Training, education, advanced coursework, or skills should benefit the United Nations during the internship.

Skills:

• Be computer literate in standard software applications.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate:

• A keen interest in the work of the United Nations.
• A personal commitment to the ideals of the Charter.
• A demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, including a willingness to try to understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.

Additional Information:

Visa and Work Authorization Mandatory Requirements:

• For internships in the United States of America:
  • Interns who are not United States citizens, permanent residents, or on another non-immigrant status (such as an F1 visa) will be required to obtain a G4 visa.
  • Interns are responsible for ensuring they have a valid visa and, if required, employment authorization (CPT/OPT) allowing them to undertake the internship.

Terms of the Internship Programme:

• The minimum duration of the internship is four months, extendable up to a total period of six months.
• Interns are expected to work full-time or part-time under the supervision of a staff member at an appropriate level.
• Working hours will be discussed with the supervisor at the time of the interview.
• Internships may be undertaken based on flexible working arrangements if:
  • The receiving entity agrees in writing.
  • Interns agree to work the equivalent of a minimum of at least two months full-time or four months part-time within six months.
  • A record of attendance shall be maintained by the receiving entity.
• Interns serving in one entity do not have the right to transfer to another entity.

Languages:

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French is desirable. Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.

Intern-specific text:

Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations. Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken may be required to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer.

How to apply

Application Process:

• Potential candidates will be contacted by the Hiring Manager directly for further consideration.
• A completed online application (Cover Note and Candidate Profile) is required.
• The Cover Note must include:
  • Title of degree currently pursuing.
  • Graduation date from the current program.
  • List of IT skills and programs proficient in.
  • Top three areas of interest/department preferences.
  • Explanation of why the candidate is the best candidate and interest in the UN Internship Programme.
• In the Candidate Profile, include all past work experiences (if any), skills, and three references.
• Due to the high volume of applications received, only successful candidates will be contacted.

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx
• youtube.com/unitednations
• careers.un.org/payandbenefits