Research Intern

Work LocationGeneva, Switzerland Expected duration3 months extendable Duties and ResponsibilitiesBACKGROUND: About ITC The International Trade Centre (ITC) is the joint agency of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. ITC provides technical assistance and capacity-building to policymakers, the private sector, and trade and investment support institutions, helping them leverage trade as a driver of sustainable growth and employment. ITC contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by connecting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to global value chains. By fostering export success in developing countries, ITC supports the creation of sustainable livelihoods and incomes—particularly for women and youth—while integrating environmental sustainability and social responsibility. About the Programme ITC is currently implementing the programme “Capacity-Building on Trade in Services in Central Africa under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)”, also known as “ECCAS Services.” Funded by the European Union (EU), the programme seeks to increase intra-regional, continental, and bilateral trade in services. It specifically aims to foster greater liberalization of trade in services and enhance exports in two priority sectors: tourism and road transport. The programme is organized around four main components: 1. Sectoral analysis and policies: Identify barriers to trade in priority services sectors and design policies to address them. 2. Technical support to Member States: Assist ECCAS countries in preparing specific commitments under the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Services. 3. Private sector support: Raise awareness among businesses, particularly women- and youth-led enterprises, about export opportunities. 4. Regulatory harmonization: Promote transparent, harmonized, and inclusive regulations that integrate social and environmental considerations into services trade. In this context, the Office of Africa (OA) is seeking an intern to support the management and implementation of the ECCAS Services programme in the region. DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES Under the overall guidance of the Chief, Office of Africa (OA), and the direct supervision of the Programme Officer, the intern will: 1. Conduct research and analysis on the evolving economic situation in each ECCAS countries, including trade policy trends and SME competitiveness. 2. Analyze the strategic goals and priorities of development partners (ECCAS Commission, other trade agencies etc) in the region related to services. 3. Research market trends, industry best practices, and policy developments in the tourism and road transport services sectors. 4. Assist in drafting project proposals, reports, and presentations. ITC champions workforce diversity, inclusion, gender equality and gender parity and considers all qualified persons - of all genders - equally, including those with disabilities, without discrimination or prejudice of any kind. Qualifications/special skillsEducation a) Be enrolled in the final academic year of the first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent); OR b) Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher);OR c) Have graduated with a university degree (as defined above) and, if selected, must commence the internship within one year of graduation. Relevant field of studies include economics, business studies, international trade, development etc. Skills - Excellent written communication skills. - Ability to undertake independent research and analysis, including in categorizing and organizing data. - Strong internet research skills and MS Office (Word, Excel, and Power Point). - Good knowledge of trade issues and of Central Africa. LanguagesAdvanced knowledge of French is required. Working knowledge of English is desirable. Additional InformationLEARNING ELEMENTS • Gain meaningful work experience in the area of trade-related technical assistance aimed to expand academic, professional and personal learning • Gain experience in the work of ITC and deepen knowledge and understanding of ITC’s goals and mission • Gain exposure in specialized events related to the United Nations & 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Intern Specific textInterns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations. Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken, may be required to obtain the appropriate visa and work/employment authorization. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.