Intern - Economic Affairs
Organizational Context
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), specifically the Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) and its Policy Analysis and Development Branch (PADB), seeks an intern. This role is based in New York and focuses on research and analysis related to financing for development action areas, contributing to global technical guidance and reports.
Job Purpose
This internship aims to provide practical experience in economic affairs within the UN Secretariat. The intern will support the Policy Analysis and Development Branch (PADB) of the Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) by conducting research and analysis on critical financing for development topics. This includes areas such as domestic public resources, private finance, international development cooperation, and debt sustainability. The role contributes to the development of policy papers, supports inter-agency task forces, and assists in the preparation of key reports, thereby supporting the UN's mandate in sustainable development financing and providing valuable learning opportunities for the intern.
Responsibilities
The intern will assist PADB staff in conducting research and analysis across various financing for development action areas, including domestic public resources, private finance, international development cooperation, and debt sustainability. Responsibilities include supporting ad hoc projects related to Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFFs) and assisting the work of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Financing for Development. The intern will also conduct research and prepare background papers on financing for sustainable development issues, attend and summarize conferences and meetings, provide logistical and administrative assistance during conferences, and compile statistics and data for analysis.
Work Experience
Professional work experience is not required for this internship. However, a field of study closely related to the internship's focus is necessary. Applicants should possess good knowledge of standard software applications, including MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams. Desirable skills include the ability to draft news articles, social media posts, and design surveys or polls.
Skills
Communication (clear and effective speaking/writing, active listening, appropriate tailoring of language), Teamwork (collaboration, valuing input, prioritizing team goals), Client Orientation (understanding client needs, building partnerships, meeting deadlines), Research and Analysis, Data Compilation, Logistical and Administrative Support, Interest in UN work and sustainable development, Cross-cultural interaction.