INTERNSHIP: Communication & Information Sector

OVERVIEW

Duty Station: Headquarters, Field Offices, and Institutes

Type of contract : Internship

Duration of contract : 1 to 6 months

Recruitment open to : External Candidates

Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 30 June 2026

 

 

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

 

OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

The Communication and Information Sector’s mission is to promote freedom of expression, media development and media literate societies, and to build knowledge societies through fostering universal access to information, innovation for sustainable development and the preservation of documentary heritage. 
(The role of the internship position does not include responsibility for UNESCO's wider external communications, which is managed by the Division for Communications and Public Engagement.).

Areas of activity covered by the Communication and Information Sector include (not exhaustive):

• Supporting Freedom of Expression, access to information and the safety of journalists
• Empowering societies, citizens and youth through Media and information Literacy
• Supporting the development of free, diverse and gender-inclusive independent media
• Promoting open access to information for all and supporting linguistic diversity
• Fostering innovation and an inclusive digital transformation in the service of sustainable development 
• Protecting, preserving and promoting access to the world’s documentary heritage
• Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic:  Addressing disinformation and ensuring access to reliable information for all in times of crises

TASKS

The Intern will have the opportunity to learn and support the overall work of the Sector’s mission.
Activities will vary depending on the requirements of the assignment. Specific Terms of Reference and learning objectives will form part of the contract.
The work entrusted to interns falls under one or more of the following categories as per the requirements/needs of each team.

Programme and Project Support:
•    Participate in the preparation and review project documents.  Draft notes and prepare technical annexes.
•    Prepare conceptual framework / concept notes on new areas of work or development challenges.
•    Collect, organize and analyze data.
•    Contribute to the production/preparation of documents, working papers, and conceptual framework/concept notes on area of work or development challenges.  
•    Assist in the development of technical support in the development of new interventions or projects.

Research and Knowledge Management: 
•    Undertake specific research and reviews to produce well defined aspects or segments of work products, including publications, documents and project proposals.
•    Contribute to the preparation of knowledge and communication products, materials for advocacy and outreach, related to area of work.
•    Participate in meetings and seminars.

Partnerships: 
•    Analyze and compile background data for potential partnerships and fundraising events and opportunities. Arrange briefings, visits, tours, meetings and other related activities to support collaborative activities.
•    Liaise and build networks with officials in national administrations, researchers, other international organisations and member country Delegations.

Operations Support:
•    Provide administrative and logistical support in the planning and organization of meetings, events, workshops, and conferences in coordination with other staff.
•    Support the preparation of specific budgets, financial and accounting documents, and project documentation and evaluation.
 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Understand the approach to developing and managing communication and information projects

Understand multilateral processes.

Carry out data  analyses as it relates to communication and information.

Design of policy briefs , using a variety of approaches including tools such as case studies, group discussion work, facilitator input and individual reflection.

Gain insight into development and implementation of communication and information projects

Understand the context of global policy making in the field of communication and information projects, including role of international organizations through their work in setting standards, facilitating knowledge exchange, providing policy advice, enhancing huma