Office for Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development Intern (Start ASAP)

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:

This internship position is situated in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development (OISC), Office of the Director (OD). The location of this internship is at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, however, upon agreement, and in coordination with the needs of the Office, interns may work fully remotely/home-based. Interns work five days per week (35 hours) under the supervision of a staff member in the work unit to which they are assigned. However, upon agreement, and by the needs of the Office, interns may work part-time under an FWA arrangement. Daily responsibilities will depend on the individuals' background, the interns' assigned office, as well as the internship period.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

• Assist in the preparation of substantive documentation, perform a variety of research assignments and analyses in multiple policy areas related to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals;
• Assist in the substantive and administrative preparation of major international conferences and meetings supported by the Division, related to work of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, such as but not limited to the 2023 High-level Political Forum on sustainable development including the Voluntary National Review preparatory process;
• Assist in drafting and preparing official documents, attending and summarizing conferences and meetings, document, legal and internet research, speechwriting; 
• Analyze a variety of qualitative or quantitative sustainable development data and prepare related data visualizations;
• Follow and report on various intergovernmental, interagency, and expert group meetings, and prepare draft summaries of intergovernmental discussions and consultations, upon request.
• Assist with information and database management.

Expected duration:

• The internship is for 2 months to start as soon as possible with an opportunity for extension up to a maximum of 6 months, pending the needs of the Office.

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

Qualifications/special skills:

• Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
  • Be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher);
  • Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent);
  • Subject to review on a case-by-case basis, applicants within a few years from graduation who could not apply earlier and who are in an early stage of their careers; as a first-time entry into the workforce; are changing careers or due to compelling family circumstances.
• Be computer literate in standard software applications.
• Knowledge of issues in the context of sustainable development would be an advantage. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• 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.
• Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the Internship Programme.
• Knowledge of an additional official UN language is an asset. Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish are the official languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

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