Intern - Political Affairs at Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary

Responsibilities
Under the overall supervision of the Senior Political Affairs Officer, the Intern duties may include, but are not limited to: 

• Support the Office’s activities in relation to the implementation of the UN Strategy for Peace Consolidation, Conflict Prevention and Conflict Resolution for the Great Lakes region, through monitoring, reviewing and reporting on relevant trends and programmatic activities, Assist with drafting various written outputs: such a meeting notes, background documents, draft agendas, summaries, amongst others, Conduct basic background research on select aspects of programmes and activities undertaken under the Action Plan of the regional Strategy, Contribute to the preparation of meetings and conferences, including logistic aspects and scheduling aspects of the steering mechanisms of the UN regional Strategy, notably the Integrated Secretariat, the Implementation Support Mechanism, and the Senior Policy Group, Perform other related duties, as required.

Competencies

• Professionalism : Shows ability to monitor and analyze political, operational and security developments; shows ability to produce reports and papers on substantive issues; shows ability to apply UN rules, regulations, policies and guidelines in work situations; shows pride in work and in achievements; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.    
• Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. 
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Education

• Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) in international relations, political sciences, economics, development, public administration, or other related fields;be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the same fields.  In addition, the candidate must: Be computer literate in standard software applications; 
• Have a demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and have a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter; and 
• Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which include willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.

Work Experience

• No working experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. Your training, education, advance course work or skills should benefit the United Nations during your internship.