Intern, Legal Affairs (Incheon-based)

Organizational Context

The UNCITRAL Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific (RCAP) in Incheon, Republic of Korea, operates as a unit within the International Trade Law Division (ITLD) of the UN Office of Legal Affairs. This Division serves as the substantive secretariat for the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), with RCAP specifically mandated to promote international trade law in the Asia-Pacific region.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this internship is to contribute significantly to the UNCITRAL Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific's (RCAP) overarching mission of enhancing international trade and development throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The intern will support the RCAP's primary goals, which include promoting certainty in international commercial transactions by actively disseminating international trade norms and standards, particularly those elaborated by UNCITRAL. A key aspect of the role involves assisting in providing bilateral and multilateral technical assistance to States, facilitating the adoption and uniform interpretation of UNCITRAL texts through organized workshops and seminars. Additionally, the intern will engage in coordination activities with various international and regional organizations actively involved in trade law reform projects within the region. Finally, the role contributes to RCAP's function as a vital channel of communication between States in the region and UNCITRAL, thereby strengthening the international trade law framework and its practical application.

Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of professional staff, the intern will undertake various tasks to support the UNCITRAL Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific's (RCAP) mandate. Key responsibilities include assisting in the research, preparation, and dissemination of international trade norms and standards, particularly those elaborated by UNCITRAL, to enhance certainty in commercial transactions across the Asia-Pacific region. The intern will actively support the planning, organization, and execution of bilateral and multilateral technical assistance activities, such as workshops, seminars, and training programs, aimed at promoting the adoption and uniform interpretation of UNCITRAL texts by States. This involves preparing background materials, presentations, and logistical arrangements. Furthermore, the intern will contribute to coordination efforts by gathering information, drafting correspondence, and assisting in liaison with international and regional organizations engaged in trade law reform projects. The role also entails supporting the RCAP's function as a communication channel, which may involve drafting reports, summaries, and updates for States in the region and UNCITRAL. The intern will also perform general administrative duties and research assignments as required, contributing to the Centre's daily operations and overall objectives in promoting international trade law.

Work Experience

Professional work experience is not required for this internship. However, a field of study closely related to the type of internship applied for is mandatory. Desirable experience includes knowledge of standard office computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and general research. The ability to manage time and priorities effectively to ensure timely completion of tasks, and to interact well with people of diverse cultural backgrounds in occasionally stressful environments, is also desirable.

Skills

Required skills include computer literacy in standard office applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet research), a keen interest in the United Nations' work, and a commitment to the UN Charter's ideals, including human rights. Demonstrated ability to interact successfully with diverse cultural backgrounds, showing tolerance and understanding, is also essential. Desirable skills include familiarity with virtual conferencing software (e.g., Microsoft Teams), SharePoint, WordPress, HTML, electronic document management, effective time management, and the ability to manage priorities in a dynamic environment.

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