http://unny.mission.gov.au/unny/130311_ungainterns.html

Each year the Australian Mission offers six - seven internship positions that run for the duration of the high level session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) from mid-September to mid-December.

The Mission’s 2016 UNGA Internship Programme will commence on Wednesday 7 September.

The Australian Mission to the United Nations in New York is one of four posts representing Australia’s interests in the United Nations system. The other posts are in Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi.

The Mission serves as the nucleus of the Australian delegation to the regular sessions of the General Assembly, and represents Australia at a range of UN meetings that take place when the Assembly is not in session.

The work of the Mission is intense and diverse, requiring flexibility, analytical thinking and a firm understanding of diplomatic principles. The environment is complex and demanding but the work is highly rewarding for the right people.

Interns will work under the guidance of experienced officers and will be expected to contribute to the regular diplomatic reporting undertaken by the Mission. They will primarily assist with policy work on the six main UNGA Committees – for example, attending committees and meetings, and assisting with negotiations of texts and resolutions. Interns will also assist with events and high level visits associated with “Leaders’ Week”, the high level week of the General Assembly.

Interns represent the Australian Government in a formal capacity in an international environment, therefore social and cultural maturities, as well as being a clear communicator, are essential qualities.

The Key Selection Criteria for the UNGA Internship program are:

relevant qualifications and/or experience – with preference given to those who have undertaken studies in the areas of political science, international relations, international law, human rights, gender studies, environment and international development;

clear communication and strong interpersonal skills;

able to operate effectively in a team, contributing positively to team operations and working relationships;

problem solving and analytical skills;

proven ability to handle high pressure environments, demonstrating initiative and flexibility; and

Desirable: prior exposure to, or demonstrated knowledge of, the United Nations system and Australian policies and priorities within the United Nations.

To apply, please submit:

a one-page covering letter indicating policy areas of interest;

responses to the Key Selection Criteria – limit each criterion to 150 words;

a CV of no more than two pages; and

names and contact details of two referees (written references are not required).

(Please note that examples of previous work and responses over the word limits will not be considered.)

Applications for the 2016 UNGA Internship Programme must be received by the Australian Mission to the United Nations in New York by 5pm local time, Wednesday 27 April 2016.

Please send applications and any queries to:

unny.generalassembly@dfat.gov.au