The Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit (MDPU) of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) maintains a traineeship programme for students/recent graduates interested in gaining professional experience in a multicultural environment and enhancing their understanding of the United Nations system.

MDPU designs and delivers the Institute’s core diplomacy training (CDT), consisting primarily of orientation briefings and short, intensive skills development workshops which benefit cumulatively some 2,500 diplomats yearly at the United Nations Headquarters and other venues where the Organization maintains a significant presence.

Parallel to CDT, MDPU develops and delivers training activities at country and regional levels in close partnership with governments, universities and selected international organizations. MDPU’s activities also include e-Learning courses; special projects, advisory services related to the curriculum development of diplomatic academies; and the development of other training tools and publications.

MDPU welcomes qualified candidates interested in working for a period of four-six months at UNITAR headquarters in Geneva. The placement is on an unpaid basis, but a monthly lump-sum of 900 CHF will be provided towards transportation and miscellaneous costs.

In line with the Institute’s efforts to improve its training activities, the Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit has launched Master Programmes in partnership with different academic institutions across the world. The Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy and related qualifications offer a unique opportunity for both students wanting to pursue a career in international relations and professionals working in international and regional organizations, as well as governmental and non-governmental institutions, to expand their knowledge on international affairs and strengthen their capacities in the field of multilateral diplomacy. The programme targets diplomats, government officials, UN staff, students and other stakeholders.

Under the supervision of the Programme Officer of UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit, the trainee will assist in the implementation and coordination of the Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy and related qualifications. The trainee would assist in, inter alia, designing and managing the training and academic courses and adapting training content to quality and academic standards. The trainee would also be responsible for assisting in admissions, communications and outreach activities. Furthermore, the trainee would assist with research on new programmes and academic partnerships. Typical tasks assigned to the trainee may include the following:

• To support colleagues in the preparation, design and implementation of UNITAR’s Master Programme as well as other related qualifications;
• To adapt online training materials and learning packages to quality and academic standards;
• To assist with the admissions process of the Programme;
• To liaise directly with partner organisations and beneficiaries in the preparation for the delivery of the Programme;
• To undertake research that may provide necessary input into such training tools and exercises;
• To assist the Programme in its outreach and communications strategy, especially with regard to community engagement mechanisms.

The tasks assigned may be reviewed during the contract period to reflect changes in programme needs and priorities.

After the assignment the trainee should be able to:

• Translate strategic vision into actionable objectives;
• Work independently and take initiative;
• Develop a professional rapport with UNITAR and United Nations staff;
• Propose ways to further UNITAR’s mission;
• Work in a multicultural environment.

Start date: End of March 2025. Exact date to be agreed upon with the selected candidate.

Duration: 4-6 months. The traineeship programme is normally on a full-time basis and trainees are expected to work five days a week. Requests for part-time arrangements are possible and should be agreed before the start of the traineeship.