Intern, Special Procedures

Organizational Context

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland, is the UN Secretariat department dedicated to strengthening international human rights mechanisms, promoting equality, combating impunity, and integrating human rights across development and economic spheres. This internship is within the Special Procedures Sections of the Thematic and Special Procedures Division.

Job Purpose

This internship within the Special Procedures Sections of the OHCHR aims to support the mandate holders (Special Rapporteurs, Working Groups, Independent Experts) appointed by the Human Rights Council. The role contributes to thematic research, policy development, human rights mainstreaming across the UN system, and the development of tools and learning packages. The intern will assist in providing expertise to various stakeholders on a wide range of human rights themes, thereby supporting OHCHR's mission to protect human rights globally and empower individuals to realize their rights.

Responsibilities

Interns will support OHCHR's mission by contributing to thematic reports and studies, including research on relevant literature, international law, and jurisprudence. Specific duties may involve assisting with country visit preparations through drafting human rights assessments, analyzing human rights issues in cases and complaints, and drafting correspondence for mandate holders. Interns will also collect information for briefing notes and statements, take notes during stakeholder meetings, attend Human Rights Council sessions, assist in organizing events and seminars, and perform translations. The daily responsibilities will vary based on the assigned work unit and the intern's background, with all duties performed under the guidance of a supervisor.

Work Experience

Professional work experience is not required for participation in this internship program. The focus is on academic background and potential to contribute to human rights work.

Skills

Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of an additional official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is an advantage. Competencies include Professionalism, Communication, Teamwork, and Client Orientation.

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