Public Information: Communications & Journalism Intern (Jul 2024)

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: 6 months

About this internship position:

• This internship announcement is valid for one (1) candidate who will intern in the Public Inquiries Unit (PIU), Visitors Services Section (VSS).
• Visitors Services is part of the Outreach Division, Department of Global Communications in New York City which engages and educates people and their communities worldwide to encourage support for the ideals and activities of the United Nations.
• Within VSS/PIU, the intern will assist in preparation for the 2024 Reham al-Farra Memorial Journalism Fellowship (RAF) Programme.
• RAF provides exceptional young journalists from developing countries with in-depth exposure to the work of the UN.
• During the Fellowship, RAF Fellows have the opportunity to cover the opening of the UN General Assembly, meet expert speakers on a range of issues on the UN’s agenda, and learn from the best in international and local media throughout New York City, among other activities. 
• The internship is in-person, unpaid, and full-time but could also be part-time. When full-time, interns work five days a week (35 hours), and when part-time, they work less than 34 hours a week.
• The intern will report to the RAF Coordinator (Associate Public Information Officer) and the Chief of Unit.
• The hybrid or remote setting of the internship may be considered based on a request by the successful candidate, the nature of the tasks, the needs of the Units and Section, and the discretion of the manager.

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) (b) Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent). 
• Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience. However, prior experience in journalism, media relations, program management, or stakeholder management is desirable. 
• An academic background in Journalism, Public Relations, Communications, or International Relations is desirable.
• Applicants must also;
  • Be computer literate in standard software applications, especially MS Word and MS Excel.
  • Have a demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and have a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.
  • Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which includes a willingness to understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.

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