Economic Affairs Internship with the United Nations
Apply for the UN internship program as an Economic Affairs Intern! This is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experience and insights into global economic issues. You’ll have the chance to work alongside professionals in the field and contribute to meaningful projects. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your skills and make a difference—send your application today!
The Economic Affairs Internship Job Information
Position Details
Opening ID: 253843
Network: Economic, Social, and Development
Family: Economic Affairs (and Sustainable Development)
Category and Level: Internship, I-1
Location: Geneva
Department/Office: United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
Date Posted: February 24, 2025
Application Deadline: March 22, 2025
Contract Duration: 3-6 months
Duties and Responsibilities of the Economic Affairs Internship
Overview of UNCTAD and MDPB
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) offers two internship positions. These are within the Macroeconomic and Development Policies Branch (MDPB) of the Division on Globalization and Development Strategies. The MDPB primarily focuses on producing the annual Trade and Development Report (TDR). It evaluates global economic trends. It also identifies emerging shifts and addresses significant international policy issues. Additionally, the TDR provides actionable policy recommendations at national, regional, and multilateral levels.
The Economic Affairs Internship Details
These internships last for three months. They start as soon as possible. There is potential for a three-month extension based on departmental needs. Interns will engage in a full-time, in-person capacity. They will report directly to the Head of the Branch and the Economic Affairs Officer.
Key Responsibilities of the Economic Affairs Interns
Interns will actively contribute to MDPB efforts through various tasks, including:
- Conducting document and internet research
- Compiling data and statistics for charts and visual presentations
- Providing editorial assistance for texts, charts, and overall layout
- Preparing substantive inputs for reports
- Developing PowerPoint presentations
- Assisting with communication materials
Visa and Expenses
To join in this in-person internship, candidates must have a valid visa. All travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern.
Guidelines for Interns
Interns are expected to adhere to the subsequent guidelines:
- Compliance: Interns must observe all applicable rules, regulations, and directives of the UN. These are outlined in the UN Internship Programme Administrative Instructions ST/AI/2020/1.
- Material Ownership: Interns must provide copies of all materials created during the internship to the receiving departments. The UN retains all property rights, including patents and copyrights, for materials directly related to the internship services. Interns will assist in securing these rights as needed.
- Impartiality: Interns must respect the impartiality and independence of the UN. They must respect the receiving department. Interns should refrain from accepting instructions from external authorities.
- Confidentiality: Interns do not disclose any non-public information obtained during their internship without prior written authorization. Such information must not be used for personal gain, and these obligations extend beyond the internship’s conclusion.
- Conduct: Interns should maintain a professional demeanor. Their behavior should reflect positively on the UN. They must refrain from activities that conflict with the UN’s mission and objectives.
Eligibility Requirements for the Economic Affairs Internship
To apply, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school programme (second university degree or higher).
- Be enrolled in or have finished the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor’s level).
Essential Skills and Qualities for the Economic Affairs Interns
Interns should possess the following attributes:
- Proficiency in standard software applications.
- A strong interest in the UN’s mission and a commitment to its Charter ideals.
- The ability to engage effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, demonstrating tolerance and understanding of differing viewpoints.
Experience and Educational Background
No prior work experience is necessary to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. Your education and skills should contribute positively during your internship. However, applicants must have a field of study closely related to the internship position.
Candidates should be:
- Students in the final year of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), master’s, or Ph.D. programme.
- Additionally, individuals who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. programme.
Application Process
If you meet any of these criteria, please indicate which one and attach the relevant proof to your application. Note that you will need to provide an official certificate at a later stage.
Language Requirements for the United Nations Internship
The United Nations Secretariat primarily operates in English and French. As a result, candidates must demonstrate fluency in both spoken and written English for the internship.
Moreover, having proficiency in an additional official UN language can be advantageous. The United Nations recognizes six official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. Thus, mastering any of these languages can strengthen your application and enrich your internship experience.
Assessment Process for the United Nations Internship
The Economic Affairs Internship Candidates will undergo evaluation based on their Personal History Profiles (PHP). Additionally, the selection committee may conduct individual interviews for further assessment. To be considered, you must submit a complete online application, which includes a Cover Note and a Personal History Profile. Incomplete applications will not receive review.
Cover Note Requirements
Your Cover Note should include the following details:
- The title of your degree
- Your expected graduation date (if you have not yet graduated)
- A list of IT skills and programs in which you are proficient
- A brief explanation of why you are the best candidate for the internship
Personal History Profile
In your Personal History Profile, ensure you include all relevant work experience, if applicable. Add your IT skills and three references. Due to the high volume of applications, only successful candidates will receive contact.
Special Notice
This profile is specifically for the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development Internship Programme. Therefore, you should not expect employment with the UN after the internship.
Furthermore, interns cannot apply for or be appointed to professional-level positions within the Secretariat for six months following their internship.
Lastly, applicants who are children or siblings of UN staff members are ineligible to apply for an internship. Related individuals may be considered. They must not be assigned to the same work unit. They should also not be under the direct or indirect supervision of that staff member.
Financial Considerations for United Nations Interns
Interns do not receive financial remuneration from the United Nations. Therefore, interns or their sponsoring institutions are responsible for covering costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses.
Interns who are neither citizens nor permanent residents of the host country may need to obtain the appropriate visa. They may also need to get work authorization. Consequently, successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer.
Recruitment Process and Fees at the United Nations
The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. This includes application, interview, processing, or training. Furthermore, the United Nations does not request or require information regarding applicants’ bank accounts.
Please visit the following link to access the official website and the application portal.
