Unpaid Internship - Media & Communication Intern

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems. ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU. Unpaid Internship - Media & Communication Intern Vacancy notice no: 2294 Sector: SG Department: SPM Country of contract: Switzerland Duty station: Geneva Position number: [[positionNumber]] Grade: [[PositionGrade]] Type of contract: Internship Duration of contract: 6 months Recruitment open to: External Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 7 May 2026

The General Secretariat directs administrative, human and financial resources and activities of the Union, including the implementation of the provisions of the administrative regulations on operational questions, the dissemination of information on telecommunication/ICT matters for operational and other purposes, and the provision of legal advice to the whole of the Union.  The General Secretariat coordinates the implementation of the Strategic Plan, monitors the telecommunication/ICT environment and recommends as needed action relating to the Union’s future policies and strategy.  The General Secretariat ensures inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation to advance a whole of ITU approach (One-ITU) in headquarters and the field. The General Secretariat provides logistical and information technology support to the Union’s activities including conferences and global forums; the coordination of the work of the Union with the United Nations system, and other international organizations; and the engagement of the Member States, Sector Members, and Academia. The General Secretariat manages corporate governance, and strategic communications and relations with the media, different stakeholder groups as well as the general public. Within the General Secretariat, the Strategic Planning and Membership Department (SPM) advises the Secretary-General on strategic challenges and their implications for the Union in the fast evolving telecommunications/ICT environment; develops forward-looking strategic proposals to the ITU management team with a view to ensuring that the organization meets the objectives assigned by the membership; plans and coordinates the corporative and strategic activities with a view to ensuring their accordance with membership objectives; organizes and provides secretariat services to the Plenipotentiary Conference, Council, and other meetings in the general secretariat in order to achieve a high level of involvement from Member States and Sector Members, develops and maintains sound relations with Member States, Sector Members and other entities, the UN and other international organizations. The Department is also responsible for providing expert advice on communication and promotion strategies and for developing and implementing the Union's corporate communication plan in cooperation with the three Sectors with a view to promoting ITU leadership in the field of telecommunications and ICT.

Under the supervision of the Media Relations Officer, the Media & Communication Intern will contribute to the activities of the Media Relations team, gaining hands-on  experience in communications. Key responsibilities include: Assisting in the development and management of a centralized system to compile messaging and talking points for media relations use. Using a systems-based approach, leveraging all currently available tools to propose and assist in design and implementation of innovative solutions to improve efficiency of managing messaging and coordinating with other departments. Updating media calendar to ensure accuracy and relevance. Preparing media kits for specific campaigns and events to support effective communication with reporters. Receiving training on CRM systems and supporting the media registration desk at ITU events. Supporting the organization of any ITU press event. Providing support on additional projects and tasks as required by the team.

Excellent computer skills (MS365, generative Al platforms, database systems, Canva and/or Adobe Creative Suite are valuable assets). Innovative systems-first mindset with a focus on efficiency and problem-solving; ability to develop creative solutions and optimize processes. Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and stay organized in a dynamic environment. Attention to detail in proofreading and editing is essential. Familiarity with Switzerland's media landscape and tech media is an advantage.

Education : Applicants must be a student in the final year of the first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. Programme or equivalent, or have completed a Bachelor's, Master's or Ph.D. Programme. Preferred areas of studies: Communications, Journalism, Media Relations, Marketing, or any other related field. Experience : No work experience required. Language : English at advanced level. Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.

Unpaid Internship. Please note that a non-remunerated Internship position at ITU does not carry the same conditions ofemployment as a Short-term or a Fixed-term position. Mandatory Medical Insurance, travelexpenses,accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or sponsoring institutions.

To be eligible for an internship at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), candidates must: • Be under 30 years of age (Exceptions may be considered for candidates pursuing a Ph.D.). • Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate programme, or bearecentgraduate(withinsix months prior to the start of the internship). • Be a citizen of a Member State of ITU.

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU 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. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.