Intern

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a Secretariat Department focused on strengthening international human rights mechanisms, promoting equality, combating impunity, and protecting human rights globally. This internship is within the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section (ARDS) in Geneva, Switzerland, supporting efforts to eliminate racial discrimination.

Job Purpose

This internship provides individuals from diverse academic backgrounds with exposure to the work of the United Nations, specifically within the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section (ARDS) of the OHCHR. The role contributes to the Section's mandate of eliminating racial discrimination worldwide by supporting States, national human rights institutions, civil society, and the UN system. Interns will gain practical experience in implementing human rights standards, conducting research on contemporary issues related to racism and intolerance, and providing secretariat support to relevant mechanisms. This opportunity is designed to foster a keen interest in UN human rights work and develop practical skills in a global human rights context.

Responsibilities

The intern will be assigned to the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section (ARDS) under the guidance of a supervisor. Key duties include supporting the Section's work in eliminating racial discrimination globally, which involves implementing international human rights standards and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. This includes assisting with capacity-building initiatives, and the promotion, protection, prevention, and monitoring of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. The intern will also contribute to thematic advice and research on contemporary issues such as hate speech, religious intolerance, multiple discrimination, and systemic racism. Additionally, the role involves providing secretariat support to the mandates of six mechanisms focused on these issues.

Work Experience

Professional work experience is not required for this internship program. The focus is on the applicant's academic background, training, education, or coursework that can benefit the United Nations during their internship.

Skills

Demonstrated ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs; willingness to understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views; fluency in spoken and written English; knowledge of another UN official language is an asset.

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