UNHCR Internship Opportunities: Join the Fight for Refugees in Multiple Locations . APPLY NOW

Position : Multiple Internship
Location : Various
Organization : UNHCR
Application Deadline : 20 Nov 2024

Introduction

UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, is a global humanitarian organization dedicated to protecting and assisting refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and stateless people worldwide. Since its inception in 1950, UNHCR has worked to provide life-saving aid, advocate for the rights of displaced people, and find long-term solutions to displacement crises. As the world faces an unprecedented number of refugees and displaced individuals, UNHCR continues to expand its efforts, offering various opportunities for individuals to contribute to its mission. One such opportunity is through the UNHCR internship program, which allows young professionals, students, and recent graduates to gain valuable experience in the humanitarian sector while supporting the organization’s life-saving work.

This blog explores the various internship opportunities offered by UNHCR at different locations across the globe, shedding light on the roles, requirements, and benefits of joining the organization’s global internship program.

Why Choose an Internship at UNHCR?

An internship at UNHCR offers numerous advantages for individuals interested in pursuing a career in international development, humanitarian aid, human rights, or refugee protection. Here are some compelling reasons to apply for an internship with UNHCR:

1. Exposure to Global Humanitarian Work
   Interns at UNHCR get the chance to be part of a leading global organization that responds to some of the world’s most urgent crises. By working in field operations or at headquarters, interns gain practical experience in the humanitarian sector, helping to shape policies and solutions that directly impact the lives of displaced people worldwide.
2. Skill Development and Networking
   UNHCR internships provide interns with the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills in areas such as project management, research, policy development, communications, and advocacy. Additionally, interns have the chance to build a professional network within the United Nations system, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders in the refugee and development sectors.
3. Contribution to a Greater Cause
   Working at UNHCR means making a tangible difference in the lives of refugees, IDPs, and other vulnerable populations. Interns are often involved in important tasks such as research, reporting, and outreach efforts, contributing directly to the organization’s mission of protection and assistance.
4. Multicultural Work Environment
   UNHCR’s workforce is diverse, comprising professionals from different cultural and professional backgrounds. Interns will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic, multicultural environment, promoting cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Types of Internships at UNHCR

UNHCR offers a wide range of internship opportunities across multiple areas of its operations. Internships are available at UNHCR’s global headquarters in Geneva, as well as in various field offices located in refugee-hosting countries. Below are some of the key internship areas at UNHCR:

ALSO READ AND APPLY

• UN Women x62 Multiple Jobs: Join and Explore Exciting Various Global Opportunities- APPLY NOW
• UNHCR x6 Assistants: Join and Explore Global Entry Level Jobs- APPLY NOW
• FAO Consultant Opportunities: Your Path to Making a Global Impact . APPLY NOW
• UNESCO Internship Opportunities: A Gateway to Global Experience . APPLY NOW

1. Field Operations and Program Support
   Interns in field operations assist with the implementation of programs that provide essential services to refugees, including food aid, shelter, education, and healthcare. This is an ideal opportunity for students in international relations, development studies, social sciences, or humanitarian aid fields. Field-based internships are available in countries such as Jordan, Uganda, Kenya, and Colombia, where displacement crises are most prevalent.
2. Protection and Advocacy
   Protection interns work on issues related to refugee rights, legal protection, and advocacy. These interns help to conduct research, prepare reports, and assist with advocacy campaigns aimed at influencing national and international policies. Protection interns may also work directly with refugees to ensure their rights are upheld under international law. This internship is perfect for law students, human rights advocates, or anyone passionate about refugee protection.
3. Communication and Public Information
   UNHCR’s communications team plays a critical role in raising awareness of refugee issues and promoting the organization’s work to the global community. Interns in this area may assist with social media campaigns, content creation, video production, and public relations efforts. Ideal for students in journalism, communications, or media studies, this internship allows individuals to develop skills in public relations, content development, and media outreach.
4. Research and Policy
   Interns working in research and policy support UNHCR’s efforts to improve its programs through evidence-based analysis. This role involves reviewing reports, collecting data, conducting interviews, and analyzing trends related to refugee displacement, protection challenges, and long-term solutions. Research and policy internships are suitable for those with strong analytical skills and academic backgrounds in political science, economics, or international relations.
5. Logistics and Supply Chain Management
   UNHCR’s logistics team ensures that vital supplies, such as food, water, and medical equipment, reach refugees in crisis areas. Interns in this field may help coordinate transportation, manage inventory, and assist with the overall logistics strategy. This internship is ideal for individuals studying supply chain management, logistics, or related fields.
6. Finance and Administration
   Interns in finance and administration support the budgetary, accounting, and administrative functions of UNHCR. They assist with financial reporting, budget preparation, and maintaining administrative records. This internship is an excellent fit for students pursuing a degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or economics.

Internship Locations and Duration

UNHCR offers internships in a variety of locations, from headquarters in Geneva to field offices around the world. The duration and nature of the internship may vary depending on the location and specific role, but typically internships last between 2 and 6 months. Some of the key locations where internships are available include:

• Geneva, Switzerland: UNHCR’s headquarters, offering a wide range of opportunities across different functional areas.
• Amman, Jordan: Internships in the Middle East, particularly in response to the Syrian refugee crisis.
• Nairobi, Kenya: Opportunities focused on East Africa, where UNHCR is involved in refugee operations across the region.
• Kampala, Uganda: Uganda is one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in the world, and internships here focus on field operations.
• Bogotá, Colombia: Opportunities to work on the Venezuelan refugee crisis and other displacement issues in Latin America.
• Other field locations: UNHCR has a presence in over 130 countries, so internships can be available in numerous other regions, including Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

While internship requirements can vary depending on the specific role, most UNHCR internships have the following basic eligibility criteria:

1. Education: Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate or post-graduate program (e.g., Master’s or Ph.D.) or have completed their studies in the past 12 months. Some internships may also accept undergraduate students who have completed at least two years of university education.
2. Skills and Experience: Interns should possess relevant academic qualifications, language proficiency, and in some cases, prior experience in the humanitarian or development sector. Specific skills, such as knowledge of UNHCR’s mandate, proficiency in multiple languages, or experience with refugee issues, can be an asset.
3. Language: Fluency in English is usually required. Depending on the location and specific position, knowledge of additional languages (e.g., Arabic, French, Spanish) may be advantageous.
4. Motivation: A strong commitment to the values and mission of UNHCR, a desire to contribute to humanitarian efforts, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment are essential.

How to Apply

To apply for an internship at UNHCR, candidates should visit the organization’s careers page and search for available internship opportunities. The application process typically involves submitting a resume/CV, a motivation letter, and academic transcripts. UNHCR also requests that applicants complete an online questionnaire to assess their suitability for the role.

Final Thoughts

Interning with UNHCR is a unique and impactful experience that offers the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of millions of refugees and displaced people around the world. Whether working in a field office or at global headquarters, UNHCR interns are an integral part of the organization’s efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of society. If you are passionate about humanitarian work and want to gain valuable experience in a leading international organization, an internship with UNHCR may be the perfect opportunity for you.

APPLY NOW ON OFFICIAL WEBSITE