Intern, Political Affairs
Organizational Context
The United Nations Secretariat, specifically the Department of Peace Operations (DPO), is seeking an intern for its Office of the Director. This UNPAID, in-person internship is based in New York and offers a duration of up to six months. The intern will support the Front Office in critical executive coordination, policy, research, and strategic partnership functions.
Job Purpose
This internship aims to provide practical experience within the Office of the Director at the Department of Peace Operations (DPO). The intern will support the Front Office by assisting in executive coordination, policy development, research, and strategic partnership initiatives. This role contributes to the Division's strategic priorities by conducting analysis, preparing documentation, and supporting high-level engagements. The intern will gain exposure to the complexities of United Nations peacekeeping and peace operations, contributing to informed decision-making and effective communication within the department and with external stakeholders.
Responsibilities
The intern will conduct research and analysis on peacekeeping, peace operations, policy development, innovation, digital transformation, strategic partnerships, and organizational reform. Responsibilities include assisting in the preparation of reports, concept notes, policy papers, briefing materials, and speeches. The intern will review and analyze policies and documents, preparing summaries for senior management. Data collection, management, and analysis, including maintaining databases and preparing analytical products, are also key duties. Project management support, tracking deliverables, and monitoring action items will be required. Additionally, the intern will assist in planning and servicing high-level meetings, taking notes, and preparing summaries. Developing communication products and providing editorial support for documents and knowledge products are also expected. Supporting the development of strategic partnerships and performing other assigned duties will be part of the role.
Work Experience
Professional work experience is not required for this internship. However, desirable experience includes research or knowledge related to peacekeeping missions, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, or humanitarian settings. Experience working in an engaging and interactive environment is also considered a plus.
Skills
Research and analysis, policy development, strategic partnerships, project management, data management and analysis, communication product development, editorial support, meeting coordination and servicing, report writing, document preparation.