Human Rights Internship – Development, Economic, Social & Cultural Rights

About the role

This internship is with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva. The intern will work within the Development, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Branch, supporting the team’s thematic work on civic space, the right to development, sustainable development, and related human‑rights issues.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in research, drafting, and analysis of documents related to economic, social and cultural rights.
• Support the preparation of briefing notes, reports, and policy papers for senior staff.
• Contribute to the organization of events, meetings and workshops on human‑rights topics.
• Help monitor developments in international human‑rights mechanisms and provide summaries.
• Undertake administrative tasks to ensure smooth functioning of the branch.

Required profile

• Currently enrolled in a university program (undergraduate or graduate) with a focus on law, international relations, development studies or a related field.
• Strong interest in human‑rights issues and the UN system.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment and meet deadlines.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hands‑on experience within a leading UN human‑rights institution.
• Exposure to international policy‑making processes and networking opportunities.
• Professional development in a multicultural, multilingual setting.