Intern on Environmental Governnance

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Panama City serves the Latin America and Caribbean region, supporting 33 countries. Its mandate is to coordinate global environmental policy, keep the environment under review, and bring emerging issues to international attention. The Environmental Governance Subprogramme aims to strengthen regional governance to achieve environmental goals and support the 2030 Agenda.

Job Purpose

This internship supports UNEP's Environmental Governance Subprogramme in Latin America and the Caribbean. The role contributes to strengthening national institutions, improving enforcement capacities, and developing effective environmental policies and laws. It involves assisting countries in developing and revising environmental legislation, conducting legal research on international environmental and human rights law, and supporting the implementation of the Escazú Agreement. The intern will help advance integrated approaches to sustainable development and promote the environmental rule of law, contributing to UNEP's mission of addressing global environmental issues and fostering environmental democracy in the region.

Responsibilities

Assist countries in developing and revising environmental legislation through research, analysis, and drafting proposals. Conduct legal research on international environmental and human rights law, and governance issues, presenting findings to facilitate decision-making. Provide legal support for the implementation of the Escazú Agreement and related initiatives. Support the organization of activities on environmental human rights defenders and assist in UNEP's roles as Secretariat for the Montevideo Programme. Contribute to developing regional model laws and provide technical legal support to countries on environmental law matters. Prepare research summaries, reports, and briefing notes. Assist in organizing training events, meetings, and workshops, including preparing materials and taking notes. Support the production of communication and outreach materials.

Work Experience

No prior professional experience is required for this internship. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate relevant academic background, coursework, or projects related to environmental law and governance. Proficiency in standard office software (MS Office) is expected.

Skills

Strong analytical skills, sound knowledge of Environmental law and international law, excellent communication and writing skills in Spanish and English, planning and organizational skills, coordination, creativity, teamwork, computer literacy (MS Office), keen interest in UN work, ability to interact with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Explore related opportunities