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Exciting Internship Opportunity: Business and Human Rights Intern

28/05/2024

4 minutes read

Unlocking Opportunities: A Comprehensive Exploration of the Business and Human Rights Internship with UNDP

Table of Contents

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Introduction

In today’s interconnected world, the relationship between business and human rights has garnered increasing attention. As global economic activities expand, it becomes imperative to ensure that business operations are conducted in a manner that respects and upholds fundamental human rights principles. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) stands at the forefront of promoting responsible business practices through its Business and Human Rights Unit in the Asia-Pacific region. This comprehensive article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the internship opportunity offered by UNDP, shedding light on its background, responsibilities, competencies required, and the potential impact it holds for aspiring professionals seeking to make a difference in the field of business and human rights.

Understanding the Context

Before delving into the specifics of the internship opportunity, it’s crucial to grasp the broader context within which UNDP operates. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working tirelessly towards the eradication of poverty, reduction of inequalities, and promotion of sustainable development. In the Asia-Pacific region, significant strides have been made in economic growth and poverty reduction. However, this progress has been accompanied by challenges related to human rights abuses, particularly in the context of business operations and supply chains.

Exciting Internship Opportunity: Business and Human Rights Intern

The Role of UNDP’s Business and Human Rights Unit

The Business and Human Rights Unit at UNDP Asia-Pacific plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. By promoting the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), the Unit seeks to clarify the responsibilities of states and businesses in upholding international human rights norms. The UNGPs are based on three pillars: the state’s duty to protect human rights, the corporate responsibility to respect human rights, and the need for effective remedies for victims of human rights abuses. Through its regional project titled “Business and Human Rights in Asia: Promoting Responsible Business Practices through Regional Partnerships,” UNDP aims to strengthen the business and human rights agenda in the region.

Exploring the Internship Opportunity

Now that we have laid the groundwork, let’s delve into the specifics of the internship opportunity offered by UNDP’s Business and Human Rights Unit in Bangkok, Thailand. This internship presents a unique chance for aspiring professionals to gain hands-on experience in the field of business and human rights while contributing to meaningful projects aimed at promoting responsible business practices and upholding human rights standards in the Asia-Pacific region.

Internship Responsibilities

As an intern with UNDP’s Business and Human Rights Unit, you will have the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of activities aimed at supporting project implementation, coordination, and research. Your responsibilities will include:

Project Implementation and Coordination (50%): This aspect of the internship involves providing project management and technical support. You will assist in organizing multi-stakeholder events, conducting research on business and human rights issues in Asia, and supporting the delivery of project activities aimed at promoting responsible business practices.
Reporting and Data Collection Support (25%): In this capacity, you will support data collection and reporting efforts, ensuring that project outcomes and impacts are effectively documented and communicated. You will also contribute to knowledge management activities, helping to consolidate and disseminate valuable insights and lessons learned.
Other Responsibilities (25%): Additionally, you will be tasked with providing support for ad hoc activities as needed. This may include engaging in awareness-raising events, capacity-building initiatives, and other project-related activities based on your personal interests and learning objectives.

Competencies and Attitude

To excel in this internship opportunity, certain competencies and attitudes are essential. These include:

Demonstrable Interest: A genuine interest in business and human rights issues is crucial. As an intern, you should be passionate about making a positive impact and contributing to meaningful projects in this field.
Proactive Mindset: A proactive, problem-solving mentality is highly valued. You should be eager to take initiative, tackle challenges, and seek out opportunities to contribute effectively to project goals.
Analytical Skills: Strong analytical skills are essential for gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing data effectively. You should be able to critically assess information and derive meaningful insights to inform project activities.
Communication Skills: Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are vital for engaging with diverse stakeholders and conveying information clearly and persuasively. You should be able to communicate ideas and findings effectively in a professional manner.
Cultural Sensitivity: Cultural sensitivity and adaptability are key, especially in a diverse and multicultural environment like UNDP. You should be open-minded, respectful of different perspectives, and able to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Internship Conditions

Before applying for the internship, it’s important to understand the conditions associated with the position. While the internship is unpaid, UNDP provides a stipend to cover basic living expenses. Interns are responsible for arranging their own travel, accommodation, and other expenses related to the internship. Additionally, interns are expected to work full-time, although flexibility is allowed for educational programs. It’s important to note that interns are not eligible to apply for or be appointed to any post in UNDP during the internship period.

Requirements and Qualifications

To qualify for this internship opportunity, you must meet certain requirements and qualifications. These include:

Education: Candidates must be currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, enrolled in a Master’s degree program, or have graduated no longer than 1 year ago from a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in fields such as international law, political science, business administration, sustainability, or equivalent studies.
IT Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools is required, and experience in organizing meetings and webinars through platforms like Zoom is advantageous.
Language Skills: Fluency in English is required, while knowledge of other UN or Asian languages is considered an advantage.

Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity

In conclusion, the Business and Human Rights Internship with UNDP offers a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to gain valuable experience in the field of business and human rights. By joining UNDP’s efforts to promote responsible business practices and uphold human rights standards in the Asia-Pacific region, interns can make a tangible difference in advancing sustainable development goals and creating a more just and equitable world. Apply now to seize this opportunity and embark on a rewarding journey towards personal and professional growth with UNDP.

Keywords: UNDP, Business and Human Rights, Internship, Asia-Pacific, Sustainable Development, Responsible Business Practices, Human Rights Standards.