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INTERNSHIP: Social and Human Sciences Sector 1

OVERVIEW

Grade : N/A

Parent Sector : Social and Human Sciences Sector (SHS)

Duty Station: Paris

Classification of duty station: [[filter12]]

Standard Duration of Assignement: [[filter13]]

Job Family: Social and Human Sciences

Type of contract : Non Staff

Duration of contract : From 1 to 6 months

Recruitment open to : External candidates

Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 18- AUG-2025

 

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

 

OVERVIEW:

In the framework of UNESCO’s activities to implement the Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers (RS|SR) and particularly within the framework of the Programme on Freedom and Safety of Scientists, and under the overall supervision of Anna Maria Majlöf, Chief SHS/REI/IRD, and direct supervision of Konstantinos Tararas, programme specialist, the Intern shall undertake  tasks linked to the implementation of UNESCO’s Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers (RS|SR) and the Programme on the freedom of science and the safety of scientists. This will involve the following: 

    1. Contribute to the implementation of the Programme in line with the Call to Action on freedom and safety of scientists and its five pillars: engagement with policymakers, data collection and monitoring, capacity building, advocacy and awareness raising, and partnership building;

    2. Assist in finalizing an Assessment Tool on the freedom and safety of scientists by incorporating expert inputs, proofreading, and coordinating with central services to ensure proper layout ahead of the Policy Dialogue in November.

    3. Support the organization of the second Policy Dialogue on the Freedom and Safety of Scientists, including preparing talking points, taking notes, drafting communication and promotional materials, managing logistical arrangements, liaising with central services, and contributing to the final report.

    4. Assist in organizing the launch event for a publication related to human rights, scheduled for December 2025.

    5. Assist in the development of partnerships with a broad range of stakeholders to further the Programme, including on protecting science and scientists in conflicts, potentially leading to the mobilization of extra-budgetary funds;

    6. Assist in the preparation of inputs on the Recommendation to UNESCO’s Executive Board and also to the UPR;

    7. Undertake any other duties as may be required in relation to other workstreams of the Section and also to daily activities, including tasks relating to the 222nd session of the Executive Board and the 43rd session of the General Conference, the organization of meetings and preparation of relevant background documents, drafting of correspondence, reports, briefings, web entries and statements.

 

 

 LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

  LEARNING OBJECTIVES : 

  • Develop a better understanding of how UNESCO, its governing bodies and the wider UN system operate;
  • Expand knowledge and skills in the areas covered by the Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers, including the right to science and scientific freedom;
  • Enhance ability to work in a multicultural environment and as a member of a team.


QUALIFICATIONS :

  • At the time of your application to the internship programme:
    • You are currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent, second university degree or higher).
    • You have recently graduated with a Master’s degree or PhD (or second degree as defined above), 12 months prior to the start of the internship.

  • Studies in fields related to international relations, political sciences, social and human sciences, or human rights.
  • Excellent knowledge of English (written and spoken). Knowledge of French, and/or any other UNESCO official language(s) (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish) will be an asset.
  • Computer literacy (i.e. Microsoft Teams, etc.).

 

 

SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted.

The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as an interview. 

UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates.

Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided.

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UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States (last update here) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts.

UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

Please note that UNESCO is a non-smoking Organization. 

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