Governance, Rule of Law and Peacebuilding Intern

BACKGROUND

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP:  we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

CORPORATE BACKGROUND

Asia and the Pacific is one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in the world, home to 60% of the global population and to political systems at very different stages of development. Rapid economic growth, shifting demographics, climate vulnerability, technological transformation, and widening inequalities are reshaping the relationship between citizens and institutions. At the same time, many countries in the region are facing interlinked challenges including declining public trust, shrinking civic space, persistent corruption risks, and capacity gaps in the public sector. In this context, the demand for governance systems that are more inclusive, accountable and transparent, and able to manage complex, overlapping crises has never been greater.

Governance is a core enabler of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Effective, people-centered governance determines how policies are designed, financed, and implemented and how public services reach those most at risk of being left behind. It underpins rule of law, integrity, and anti-corruption efforts, supports transparent and evidence-based decision-making, and creates space for meaningful participation by women, young people, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, and marginalized communities. Governance reforms that strengthen institutions, harness digital and data innovations, and embed human rights and gender equality are essential to address cross-cutting challenges such as climate change, social fragmentation, and democratic backsliding in the region.

UNDP has decades of experience in supporting democratic governance and public sector reform across Asia and the Pacific. Through policy and technical advisory services, capacity-building, innovation, and knowledge-sharing, UNDP works with governments, parliaments, oversight institutions, local authorities, and civil society to build more open, effective, and accountable institutions. Its Governance for People and Planet approach emphasizes whole-of-government and whole-of-society solutions that connect core governance functions such as effective public service delivery, public finance management, anti-corruption, access to justice, and local and urban governance with broader agendas on climate action, and inclusive growth. Within this framework, UNDP also supports the development of open, participatory and trusted public communication and information ecosystems as a foundation for resilient, rights-based governance. Building on this experience, UNDP is well-placed to support countries in advancing next-generation governance reforms that can accelerate SDG implementation and ensure that development gains are more just, resilient, and sustainable for all.
 

INTERNSHIP BACKGROUND

Working with the Governance and Rule of Law team and Peacebuilding team at the UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub (BRH), UNDP Country Offices in target countries, and under the direct supervision of the GRP Team Leaders, the Intern will carry out communications and knowledge management activities.

DUTIES

The intern will assist in the following duties and responsibilities, which will be aligned to specific country context:

Communications and Outreach (50%):

• Develop a communication plan for a regional initiative focusing on governance, rule of law and peacebuilding, ensure donor and programme visibility;
• Track viewership and engagement levels on multiple platforms;
• Produce communication materials and support drafting of newsletters, briefing materials and press releases as required; 
• As needed, coordinate and support communication activities across countries, ensure consistency of messaging and compliance with UNDP and donor editorial and branding guidelines.

Knowledge Management and Event Coordination (40%):

• Assist in arranging logistics, preparing agenda and coordinating with related stakeholders for organizing a regional dialogue scheduled for October;
• Support data collection and analysis on websites, social media and other communication channels for monitoring and evaluation and reporting purposes;
• Support as needed the regional Community of Practice of the Governance, Rule of Law, and Peacebuilding Hub.

Other (10%):

• Participate in team meetings and brainstorming sessions to provide input on communication strategy and content creation;
• Support any other relevant tasks as identified by the supervisor and the GRP team leaders.
   

COMPETENCIES

• Interest and motivation in working in an international organization, particularly in programmes that support youth, entrepreneurship, climate action, and inclusive development;
• Outgoing and initiative-taking person with a goal-oriented mindset;
• Communicates effectively when working both independently and as part of a team, with the ability to engage respectfully, transparently, and constructively with colleagues, partners, and programme participants;
• Good in organizing and structuring various tasks and responsibilities; 
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and adaptability, showing humility and openness when engaging with people from diverse cultural, socio-economic, gender, religious, and geographic backgrounds;
• Responds positively to feedback and differing points of view, demonstrating self-awareness, intellectual humility, and a growth mindset;
• Consistently approaches work with energy, integrity, and a positive, constructive attitude, and is able to instill confidence, optimism, and belief in the people they support, especially those working on complex social and climate challenges.

INTERNSHIP CONDITIONS

• UNDP will not pay interns for internship but will provide a stipend in the amount of THB 8,302.50 monthly in accordance with the provisions of the UNDP internship policy; all other expenses connected with it will be borne by me or my sponsoring Government or institution;
• UNDP accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents and/or illness or death incurred during the internship;
•  Interns are responsible for obtaining necessary visas and arranging travel to and from the duty station where the internship will be performed;
• Interns are not eligible to apply for, or be appointed to, any post in UNDP during the period of the internship;
• Interns must provide proof of enrolment in health insurance plan;
• Interns are not staff members and may not represent UNDP in any official capacity;
• Interns are expected to work full time but flexibility is allowed for education programmes;
• Interns need to obtain financing for subsistence and make own arrangements for internship, travel, VISA, accommodation, etc.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

Candidates must meet one of the following educational requirements:

• currently enrolled in a master’s degree in International Affairs, or related fields
• have graduated no longer than 1 year ago from a bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent studies.

Field of study: Peacebuilding, Civic studies, International Security and Diplomacy.

IT skills:

• Knowledge and a proficient user of Microsoft Office productivity tools;
• Ability to use basic design tools (e.g. Canva) to support programme communications, presentations, and visual materials; 
• Familiarity with simple data management and tracking tools (e.g. spreadsheets, Airtable or similar platforms) is an asset.

Language skills:

• Excellent command of English, both written and oral, required;
• Knowledge of other UN languages is an advantage.