Political Affairs Internship null

About United Nations

The United Nations stands as 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

Expected duration: 3 months

About the team:

The position is located in the Office of the Victims' Rights Advocate (OVRA). The OVRA was created as part of the four-pronged strategy set out in the 2017 report of the SG to the General Assembly on special measures on protection from sexual exploitation and abuse: a new approach (A/71/818). The mandate of the Victims' Rights Advocate is directed to ensure that the rights and dignity of victims are at the forefront of all elements of the UN system-wide response to sexual exploitation and abuse alleged to be perpetrated by UN uniformed or civilian personnel and non-UN troops serving under a SC mandate.

The intern will perform the following duties:

• Conduct research and analysis on matters of concern to the work of the VRA. 
• Prepare ad hoc short policy papers on topics related to the VRA's mandate. 
• Draft or contribute to the drafting of notes, background papers, talking points, speeches, and other materials in the area of responsibility. 
• Attend and take notes of the proceedings of meetings and conferences. 
• Provide support for meetings of the Senior Victims’ Rights Officers and Victims’ Rights Focal Points. 
• Assist in communication and public information activities and outreach. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Training & development

The United Nations internship program offers comprehensive training opportunities to aspiring professionals. With a focus on cultivating skills and knowledge across various fields, interns gain valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the organization's work. Through mentorship, workshops, and practical assignments, the program equips interns with the necessary tools to thrive in their careers and contribute to the UN's global mission.

Salary & benefits 

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.

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

• Health insurance
• Holidays and leave
• Retirement pension, etc.

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. The intern is expected to work five days a week, on a full-time basis. They provide opportunities for interns to engage in meaningful work while ensuring they have time for personal growth and well-being.

Culture & vibe

At the United Nations, the culture and vibe are truly exceptional. From savoring 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;

• (a) Be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent).
• Be computer literate in standard software applications; Applicants should be able to demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and have a personal commitment to the ideals of the Charter.
• In addition, candidates should have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which includes a willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.
• No working experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. Your training, education, advanced course work, or skills should benefit the United Nations during your internship.

Languages:

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

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx
• careers.un.org/payandbenefits?language=en
• youtube.com/unitednations