Economic Affairs Intern - Department of Economic and Social Affairs 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

About the internship:

The Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development (OISC)/Non-Governmental Organizations Branch (NGO) internship is for a minimum of four months, with an opportunity for an extension up to a maximum of six (6) months, depending on the needs of the Division. The internship is full‐time. Interns work five days per week (35 hours) under the supervision of a staff member in the department or office to which they are assigned. The unpaid internship is designed to be in person and full-time at the New York duty station. Depending on the situation of the successful candidates, the internship may also offer a Flexible Work Arrangement to be conducted hybrid (in-person and remote), and/or in part-time. 

The NGO Branch, in the Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development (OISCSD), serves as the Secretariat of the Committee and reviews all the documentation submitted to it. In addition, the Branch assists NGOs in their interaction with ECOSOC and other intergovernmental bodies and guides them on the use of their consultative status to make significant contributions to the work of the UN.  Interns work within the NGO Branch and support the preparation for and the work of the Branch during the regular and resumed sessions of the Committee. This includes the preparation and review of assigned documentation and communications with NGOs through the NGO Branch online platforms.

Expected duration: 6 months

Interns working for the Branch will undertake the following tasks:

• Review applications for consultative status and other requests by non-governmental organizations through the ICSO platform.
• Communicate with non-governmental organizations about their applications through the online communication system and assist in ensuring that applications are compliant with the requirements of ECOSOC Resolution 1996/31.
• Undertake Internet research, including gathering background information and materials for the compilation and preparation of reports and studies as needed.
• Assist in providing secretariat services during the sessions of the Committee on NGOs by taking notes during meetings and reviewing relevant documentation.
• Support preparations for the Committee on NGO's consultations with NGOs in consultative status.
• Support the work of the Branch in facilitating NGO participation in the work of the United Nations.
• Perform other duties as required.

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.

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

To qualify for an internship with the United Nations Internship Programme, the following conditions must be met:

• Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
  • Be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (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 degree or equivalent).

Languages:

• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.
• Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the Internship Programme.
• Knowledge of French or any of the official languages of the UN is an asset.

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