United Nations Environment Programme is looking for a Policy and Analysis Unit Intern

Work Location

Geneva, Switzerland

Expected duration

6 months

Duties and Responsibilities

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Within UNEP’s Disasters and Conflicts Branch, the Policy and Analysis Unit delivers politically informed and context-specific analysis, policy advice, and programming aimed at supporting partners to prevent conflict, sustain peace, and build resilience to linked environmental, climate change and conflict crises. Building on their 2017 strategic partnership, UNEP and the European Union (EU) have expanded their Partnership on Climate Change, Environment, and Security, which addresses climate and environmental risks contributing to instability in fragile and crisis-affected regions. This new phase (2024–2027) extends the partnership’s geographical scope, emphasizes empowering local actors as key agents of change, and strengthens their involvement through enhanced regional and transregional practitioner networks. This reinforced collaboration highlights UNEP and the EU’s shared dedication to addressing climate and environmental risks while advancing peace and security on a global scale.

The internship position is based at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) office in Geneva. The intern will report directly to the Project Coordinator and, secondly, to the Manager of the EU-UNEP Climate Change and Security Partnership Programme, both located in Geneva. This internship is tailored for a highly motivated individual with a strong passion for addressing environment- and climate-related risks to peace and security. The selected intern will provide essential support to UNEP's project activities, with a primary focus on research, analysis, and communication. Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting Research: analyse and present information gathered from diverse sources, including geospatial datasets, to support decision-making.
• Supporting Programme Delivery: assist in the implementation of project activities related to climate and environmental risks to peace and security.
• Enhancing Communication: contribute to outreach materials, reports, and presentations to support knowledge sharing and advocacy.

The Internship is UNPAID and full-time. Interns work five days per week (35-40 hours) under the supervision of a staff member in the department or office to which they are assigned. Interns may only undertake internships within UN Secretariat agencies for a cumulative duration of 6 months maximum.

Responsibilities

1. Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of programmes and projects managed by the Policy and Analysis Unit of the Disasters and Conflicts Branch. Ensure clear and effective communication of goals, progress, and outcomes with stakeholders. Leverage websites, online platforms, and digital tools to access relevant data, share updates, and collaborate efficiently with stakeholders and external partners. Support the monitoring and analysis of programme and project activities by reviewing documents and reports, identifying issues, and proposing solutions, while using online platforms to facilitate real-time communication and seamless collaboration.
2. Provide support in conducting research using geospatial datasets to analyse environmental and climate-related risks to peace and security. Assist in utilizing geospatial tools and platforms to map and evaluate key factors, helping to identify areas where environmental and climate challenges intersect with social and economic vulnerabilities. Contribute to the exploration of nature-based solutions, such as ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, by supporting the visualization of their potential impacts through geospatial data modelling. Help prepare and present findings through maps, graphs, and spatial analyses to aid evidence-based decision-making and facilitate the integration of geospatial insights into programme planning and policy development.
3. Provide support in preparing high-impact written materials such as draft research papers, analytical reports, and sections of studies that align with organizational priorities. Assist in developing contributions for publications, ensuring they reflect strategic goals and communicate key insights effectively. Conduct targeted background research, synthesize data, and draft content that addresses critical issues, supports decision-making, and drives programme objectives forward. Collaborate with team members to refine drafts and align messaging with overarching strategic frameworks.
4. Assist in planning and executing consultative meetings and conferences with a focus on achieving strategic outcomes. Propose agenda topics that align with organizational priorities, identify key stakeholders and participants, and develop comprehensive preparatory materials, including briefing notes, background documents, and compelling presentations. Provide logistical and technical support to ensure meetings are efficiently executed and contribute to actionable outcomes by preparing post-meeting summaries, reports, and follow-up documentation.
5. Support the design and delivery of outreach and communication activities, such as training workshops, seminars, or presentations, that advance strategic initiatives. Assist in developing targeted content and materials to effectively engage stakeholders and communicate the organization’s goals. Coordinate logistical elements, such as participant outreach and technical arrangements, while ensuring that activities are aligned with broader communication and capacity-building strategies.
6. Help coordinate budget-related activities with a strategic focus on resource allocation and financial planning to support programme goals. Assist in drafting funding proposals, tracking financial performance, and preparing detailed financial statements and progress reports. Ensure financial data is strategically analyzed and presented to inform decision-making, optimize resource utilization, and enhance accountability to stakeholders. Collaborate on efforts to align funding activities with the long-term goals of the organization.
7. Perform any other tasks as requested by the Programme Coordinator or Manager.

Qualifications/special skills

• Currently enrolled in or within one year of completing a master’s program in environmental sciences, policy, climate change studies, communications, public policy, geography, or related fields; final-year undergraduates with relevant experience may be considered.
• Proven research and data analysis skills, including experience with geospatial datasets and tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience preparing professional reports and research papers.
• Ability to develop outreach materials and presentations tailored to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in digital tools, including websites, online collaboration platforms, and content management systems.
• Knowledge of data visualization tools for creating analytical visuals.
• Passion for addressing environmental and climate-related risks to peace and security, with a focus on sustainable solutions.
• Familiarity with social media, online communications strategies, and web-based content management systems.

Languages

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French or Spanish is an advantage.

Additional Information

Not available.

Intern Specific text

Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations. Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken, may be required to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer.

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