Economic Affairs Intern

Organizational Context

The Economic Affairs Intern position is within the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), specifically in the Policy Analysis and Research Branch of the Division for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes (ALDC). This unpaid, full-time internship supports UNCTAD's mandate by contributing to research and technical assistance initiatives, providing a crucial role in the division's analytical work.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this Economic Affairs Internship is to provide comprehensive research support and technical assistance within the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), specifically for the Policy Analysis and Research Branch of the Division for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes (ALDC). The intern will contribute significantly to the preparation of key publications, such as the 2026 Least Developed Countries Report, and various technical assistance projects. This role offers a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in economic research, data analysis, and international development, directly supporting UNCTAD's efforts to promote sustainable development and integrate developing countries into the global economy. The intern's contributions will enhance the division's analytical capacity, improve the quality of its research outputs, and strengthen the effectiveness of its outreach and policy recommendations to member states. This position is integral to advancing UNCTAD's mandate in fostering trade and development for the benefit of least developed countries.

Responsibilities

The intern will provide essential research support for the 2026 Least Developed Countries Report and other critical research and technical assistance initiatives within the Policy Analysis and Research Branch. This involves carrying out tasks under the direct supervision of an Economic Affairs Officer. Core duties include applying statistical tools to analyze and verify data, ensuring accuracy and reliability in research findings. The intern will actively assist in the drafting and preparation of a range of important documents, such as project proposals, comprehensive reports, concise policy briefs, and academic papers, contributing to UNCTAD's knowledge products. Furthermore, the role entails significant involvement in the organization of workshops, which includes developing and preparing training materials, crafting workshop presentations, and designing evaluation questionnaires to assess impact. The intern will also attend online conferences and meetings, synthesizing key discussions into summary reports, and will be responsible for developing engaging infographics and formatting various materials for desktop publication to enhance communication. Additionally, the intern must adhere strictly to all applicable UN rules, regulations, instructions, procedures, and directives, provide copies of all materials prepared during the internship, respect the impartiality and independence of the UN, maintain confidentiality of all non-public information, and ensure conduct that upholds the Organization's integrity.

Work Experience

No professional work experience is required for the United Nations Internship Programme. However, applicants must demonstrate a field of study closely related to the internship's focus. The intern's academic training, advanced coursework, or existing skills should directly benefit the United Nations during the internship period.

Skills

Required skills include computer literacy in standard software applications and fluency in spoken and written English. An advantage is knowledge of desktop publishing software. Essential competencies include a keen interest in the United Nations' work, a personal commitment to the UN Charter's ideals, and a demonstrated ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, showing willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions. For remote work, applicants need full access to a computer with a modern browser, the latest Office 365 applications, up-to-date Microsoft Windows OS and security updates, an enabled software firewall, and the ability to use a password manager.

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