Social Affairs Intern null

Your role

About this internship:

This internship is located in the Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The Division seeks to strengthen international cooperation for social development, particularly in the areas of poverty eradication, productive employment and decent work, and the social inclusion of older persons, youth, families, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and persons marginalized from society and development.

The intern works under the supervision of and reports to the Senior Social Affairs Officer of the Programme on Ageing Section (PAS)in the Social Inclusion and Participation Branch. The intern will contribute to research and the organization of meetings and events on the topic of ageing, the human rights of older persons, care and support, elder abuse, and intergenerational solidarity as well as other topics relating to preparations for the GA Third Committee and observance of the International Day of Older Persons.

Tasks may include, but are not limited to:

• Assisting with preparations for and observance of the United Nations International Day of Older Persons (ECOSOC Chamber, 7 October 2024).
• Assisting with research for drafting the United Nations Inter-Agency Group on Ageing exploratory paper.
• Assisting with research for drafting the report of the Secretary-General on the modalities of the 5th review and appraisal of the implementation of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing.
• Assisting with the preparation of materials to be posted on the website and social media platforms.

This internship is designed to be carried out on a full-time basis and in a hybrid manner (several days per week in-person at UNHQ with the possibility of telecommuting from within the duty station on other days). Part-time employment may be considered on a very exceptional basis, due to the individual circumstances of the chosen candidate.

Expected duration: 2 to 6 months

About you

Qualifications/Special Skills Required:

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

• 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 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. Knowledge of an additional official UN language is an advantage. Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish are the official languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Intern specific text:

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.

Compensation & 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:

• Rental subsidy
• Dependency allowances
• Travel and shipping expenses
• Danger pay and rest and recuperation break
• Health insurance
• Holidays and leave
• Retirement pension

Training & development

Interns receive hands-on training in research and event organization, focusing on ageing and human rights issues under the guidance of the Senior Social Affairs Officer. They gain experience in preparing high-level UN reports and observances, such as the International Day of Older Persons, and contribute to drafting significant documents. Additionally, interns develop skills in creating content for websites and social media platforms.

Career Progression

At the United Nations USA, career progression starts at entry-level positions, advancing through merit-based categories reflecting greater responsibilities. Interns gain essential practical experience and skills, contributing to peace, sustainable development, and human rights.

Staff are supported and encouraged to develop their unique career paths at the United Nations. The program emphasizes mentorship and professional development, preparing interns for future roles within the UN and beyond.

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• careers.un.org/jobSearchDescription
• careers.un.org/payandbenefits
• careers.un.org/career-development?language=en
• instagram.com/uncareers/p/C59QcwVSFnc/?img_index=1
• youtube.com/@UnitedNationsAcademicImpact