Human Rights Intern: Support to the Global Human Rights Programme
Organizational Context
The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), established in 2017, leads on General Assembly counter-terrorism mandates, enhances system-wide coordination, and strengthens capacity-building assistance to Member States. This internship is situated within the Human Rights and Rule of Law Section in New York, operating under the guidance of a Human Rights Officer and the Chief of Section.
Job Purpose
This internship offers a framework for gaining exposure to the work of the United Nations within the UNOCT's Global Human Rights Programme. The intern will support the implementation of the programme by assisting with research, analysis, and the preparation of various documents and materials related to human rights, the rule of law, and counter-terrorism efforts. The role provides an opportunity to contribute to the UN's mission of preventing and countering terrorism and violent extremism, while developing practical skills in a global human rights context. The internship is unpaid, full-time, and can be conducted remotely or in person in New York.
Responsibilities
Interns will perform diverse tasks supporting the UNOCT's Global Human Rights Programme. Key responsibilities include assisting in drafting, editing, and preparing background documents, reports, briefings, presentations, talking points, and outreach materials, including social media content, on human rights and the rule of law in preventing and countering terrorism and violent extremism. Interns will also take notes at meetings, prepare summaries, and conduct research and analysis on related topics, including international and country-specific trends. Additionally, support will be provided for organizing meetings, conferences, and side events to enhance strategic engagement with partners, and assisting in the preparation of training and capacity-building initiatives.
Work Experience
Professional work experience is not required for this internship. However, applicants must meet the specified academic enrollment or completion criteria. A field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Experience in undertaking research and drafting background notes and reports is considered desirable.
Skills
Research and analysis, drafting and editing documents (reports, briefings, presentations), meeting support (note-taking, summaries), event organization, communication, knowledge of human rights and rule of law issues in counter-terrorism, fluency in English (oral and written).