Political Affairs Internship

About the role

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) is looking for a motivated Political Affairs Intern to support its Front Office for a six‑month period. The internship is unpaid and can be undertaken full‑time (35 hours/week) or part‑time (20 hours/week) with a flexible remote or hybrid work arrangement.

Key responsibilities

• Provide substantive and organisational support to the Under‑Secretary‑General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs.
• Assist in preparing briefing materials, reports, and strategic advice on cross‑cutting disarmament, arms‑control and non‑proliferation issues.
• Support the coordination of meetings with UN bodies, Member States, and civil‑society stakeholders.
• Facilitate the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters and help implement UNODA‑wide policies, including gender and inclusion initiatives.
• Conduct research and maintain up‑to‑date information on disarmament topics for internal and external audiences.

Required profile

• Currently enrolled in a university programme related to international relations, political science, law, or a comparable field.
• Strong analytical and research abilities with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently in a remote or hybrid environment and meet deadlines.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hands‑on experience in multilateral disarmament policy within the UN system.
• Flexible work arrangements (remote or hybrid) and the possibility of part‑time scheduling.
• Exposure to senior UN officials and high‑level diplomatic engagements.