Legal Intern – Counter‑Terrorism and Human Rights

About the role

The United Nations Counter‑Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate is seeking a motivated Legal Intern to support its work at the intersection of counter‑terrorism and human rights. This 3‑to‑6‑month internship, based in New York, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high‑level analyses and policy development.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in analysing and interpreting counter‑terrorism instruments and laws from a human‑rights perspective.
• Research and collect information on human‑rights and counter‑terrorism issues.
• Prepare analytical background and briefing papers.
• Draft reports, summary notes and correspondence related to human‑rights matters.
• Maintain awareness of relevant human‑rights developments, including at country level.
• Support the organization of workshops, seminars and briefings.
• Liaise with external partners as required.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Required profile

• Enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s or equivalent) or in the final year of a Bachelor’s programme, preferably in law, political science, international relations, social sciences or a related field.
• Alternatively, a recent graduate with a relevant university degree.
• Fluency in English (required); French is an asset.
• Strong research, analytical and writing abilities.

Required skills

• Legal research and analysis.
• Report writing and briefing preparation.
• Ability to synthesize complex legal texts.

What we offer

• Unpaid internship with valuable UN experience.
• Exposure to counter‑terrorism and human‑rights policy work.
• Professional networking within an international environment.
• Workplace located in New York City.
• Duration of 3 to 6 months, starting July 2026.