Organization Mission

In an increasingly economically interdependent world, the importance of an improved legal framework for the facilitation of international trade and investment is widely acknowledged. The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), established by the United Nations General Assembly by resolution 2205 (XXI) of 17 December 1966, plays an important role in developing that framework in pursuance of its mandate to further the progressive harmonization, unification and modernization of the law of international trade by preparing and promoting the use and adoption of legislative and non-legislative instruments in a number of key areas of commercial law. These areas include dispute resolution, international contract practices, transport, insolvency, electronic commerce, international payments, secured transactions, procurement and public-private partnerships as well as sale of goods. These instruments are negotiated through an international process involving a variety of participants, including member States of UNCITRAL, non-member States, and invited intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. As a result of this inclusive process, these texts are widely accepted as offering solutions appropriate to different legal traditions and to countries at different stages of economic development. In the years since its establishment, UNCITRAL has been recognized as the core legal body of the United Nations system in the field of international trade law.

Context

In 2026, UNCITRAL will celebrate six decades of contributions to the progressive harmonization, unification, and modernization of international trade law. Established by the General Assembly in December 1966, UNCITRAL has served as a forum in which government representatives and relevant stakeholders from developing and developed countries alike, as well as different legal traditions, can deliberate and reach consensus on key issues of international trade law, devising solutions to overcome significant obstacles to international commerce and promoting sustainable economic development.

UNCITRAL’s 60th anniversary presents a unique opportunity. It provides the chance not only to reflect on UNCITRAL’s significant achievements and the role of Members States and stakeholders in the development and implementation of UNCITRAL texts, but also to envision UNCITRAL’s place in the evolving landscape of international trade and the contributions it can make in the coming years. Together, we can help ensure that UNCITRAL remains fit for purpose for the coming decades and continues to serve as an inclusive and solution-oriented forum, with even greater participation from developing countries.

Key Responsibilities

We are looking for two online volunteers to help create virtual contents to be used for outreach and educational purposes during UNCITRAL”s 60th anniversary celebrations. Tasks include (1) produce one short, engaging video or animation (2-3 mins) that explain the history and mandate of UNCITRAL as well as the purpose of UNCITRAL”s 60th anniversary celebration (Assignment 1); (2) Design a range of visually compelling materials to promote UNCITRAL’s 60th anniversary events and showcase its historical journey, including (a) one flyer, (b) one informative brochure that highlight UNCITRAL’s history, mandate, and impact, (c) 20-30 posters that showcase milestones, achievements, and global influence, using archival materials and visual storytelling techniques (Assignment 2). These tasks will be performed based on inputs from UNCITRAL staff. Online volunteers are expected to collaborate with UNCITRAL staff for feedback and revisions.

Required Skills and Experience

Strong storytelling and visual communication skills; Ability to synthesize complex information into accessible visual formats; Demonstrated experience in video production, editing, and animation tools (Assignment 1) and graphic design tools (Assignment 2); Reliable access to necessary platforms and software; Familiarity with the work of international organizations and/or international trade law is a plus.