Internship in International Trade & Commodities – Sustainable Ocean Programme

About the role

This unpaid, full‑time internship is based at UNCTAD in Geneva and supports the Sustainable Ocean and Blue Economy Programme within the Division on International Trade and Commodities. You will work under the supervision of a Project Officer, contributing to policy analysis, communications, and capacity‑building activities that help developing countries harness ocean‑related trade opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare briefing notes, speeches, PowerPoint slides, flyers and other communication material on oceans economy, trade, fisheries, seaweed aquaculture, coastal tourism and climate change.
• Collect and input data for analytical studies, especially for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
• Draft short news items, articles and social‑media posts on programme activities.
• Provide rapid policy, economic and legal analysis on the interface between trade, sustainable oceans and circular economy.
• Support event preparation, minute‑taking and reporting for UNCTAD, UN, WTO and other intergovernmental meetings.
• Assist in organizing the 6th UN Ocean Forum and related online trainings.
• Translate technical and policy content into accessible language for diverse stakeholders.

Required profile

• University student or recent graduate with interest in international trade, sustainable development and ocean economics.
• Strong analytical and writing abilities; capable of producing concise briefing notes and presentations.
• Ability to work five days a week on‑site in Geneva and to obtain a valid visa.
• Willingness to cover personal travel, accommodation, insurance and living costs.

Required skills

• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Social‑media content creation

What we offer

• Hands‑on experience with UN‑level policy analysis and multilateral negotiations.
• Exposure to a global network of experts in trade, environment and sustainable ocean development.
• Opportunity to contribute to high‑impact research and capacity‑building projects.