Sustainable Development Intern

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Vientiane, Lao PDR, is seeking an intern to support its Alternative Development Programme. This six-month, in-person internship focuses on promoting sustainable livelihoods and reducing illicit crop cultivation. The role operates under the direct supervision of the Alternative Development Programme Lead.

Job Purpose

This internship aims to provide practical experience in sustainable development initiatives within the UNODC framework. The intern will actively contribute to the implementation and coordination of alternative development activities, focusing on promoting sustainable livelihoods and reducing reliance on illicit crop cultivation in Lao PDR. Key contributions include supporting data collection and analysis, assisting in the preparation of programme documents and reports, contributing to communication efforts by drafting success stories and outreach materials, facilitating coordination with national and local stakeholders, and monitoring programme progress. This role offers a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international development, programme support, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Responsibilities

The intern will support the implementation and coordination of Alternative Development activities. Key duties include: collecting, consolidating, and analyzing data related to livelihoods, agriculture, gender inclusion, environmental sustainability, and community development. The intern will assist in drafting and editing programme documents, such as activity reports, briefing notes, and donor reporting inputs. Communication and visibility efforts will be supported by drafting success stories, summaries, and newsletters. Coordination and communication with national counterparts, local authorities, and community-based organizations will be facilitated. Programme progress will be monitored, and lessons learned documented. Administrative and operational support, including document preparation, filing, record-keeping, and scheduling, will also be provided.

Work Experience

Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience. However, a field of study closely related to the internship is required. Experience or an academic background in international development, sustainable agriculture, forestry, agroforestry systems, or coffee production is desirable. Familiarity with the social, economic, and development context of Lao PDR is also desirable.

Skills

Computer literacy in standard software applications (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams). Ability to design surveys, questionnaires, and basic data collection tools is desirable. Demonstrated keen interest in the UN's work and commitment to its ideals. Ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Fluency in spoken and written English is required; fluency in Lao is desirable.

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