UNITAR Traineeship Opportunities for Freshers and Junior Professionals

Are you a passionate communications student or recent graduate eager to gain valuable experience within the United Nations system? The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is offering a unique traineeship position within its Peacekeeping Training Programme Unit (PTPU) in Geneva, Switzerland. This six-month traineeship provides an exceptional opportunity for aspiring communications professionals to contribute to peacebuilding efforts and enhance global understanding of UN peace operations.

About UNITAR and its Mission

Established in 1965 by a UN General Assembly resolution, UNITAR is an autonomous UN body dedicated to developing individual, institutional, and organizational capacities worldwide. Through innovative learning solutions, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building initiatives, UNITAR aims to support decision-making and foster action towards overcoming global challenges.

Within its Division for Peace, UNITAR focuses on conflict prevention, peace-making, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding. Its work supports the promotion of peace, justice, and strong institutions—aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 16. The division emphasizes providing tailored capacity-building and knowledge management solutions to a diverse range of personnel, including UN peacekeepers, regional and international partners, women peacemakers, and representatives of indigenous and minority groups, especially in conflict-affected and post-conflict regions.

The Traineeship: Supporting Communication in Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding

This traineeship is designed for individuals interested in exploring the vital role of communication in advancing peace and development. The selected trainee will work directly with the Pre-deployment Training and Advisory (PDTA) team to support a broad array of communication activities related to the planning, development, and implementation of PDTA projects.

Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the role offers hands-on experience in strategic communication within a dynamic international environment. The trainee will contribute to raising awareness, promoting visibility, and supporting outreach efforts for UNITAR’s peace operations initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, edit, and prepare engaging communication materials, including social media posts, web content, newsletters, and reports, ensuring consistency with UNITAR’s branding and communication strategies.
• Assist with the planning and execution of social media campaigns for international days and other key events, maximizing outreach and engagement.
• Gather content such as testimonials, media, and relevant information to support storytelling and promotional activities.
• Collaborate with the Division for Peace communications team to develop, schedule, and monitor PDTA communication outputs.
• Contribute to the preparation of internal reports, including quarterly and annual reports, reflecting the progress and impact of PDTA activities.
• Support the ongoing update and enhancement of the PDTA web pages to ensure content remains relevant, engaging, and accurate.
• Provide administrative and logistical support for communication activities, including organizing meetings, managing digital files, and preparing internal documentation.
• Assist in drafting and implementing a comprehensive communication plan to promote PDTA’s initiatives and expand its reach.
• Undertake additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the team.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the traineeship, participants will:

• Understand how strategic communication enhances the visibility and impact of UNITAR’s peace initiatives.
• Develop skills in creating and editing diverse communication materials, including social media content, newsletters, and web articles.
• Learn how to collect and organize content that supports storytelling and stakeholder engagement.
• Collaborate effectively within multicultural, multidisciplinary teams.
• Propose creative solutions to improve outreach and engagement strategies.
• Demonstrate independence and initiative in a professional environment, adapting to evolving priorities.

Performance and Competencies

The successful trainee will be assessed based on the quality and timeliness of deliverables, effective communication, professionalism, and the ability to work collaboratively. Key competencies include professionalism, adaptability, effective interpersonal communication, organizational skills, and proficiency with digital tools and social media platforms.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Enrolled in or recent graduate of a university program in communication, media studies, journalism, public relations, marketing, international relations, or a related field.
• Demonstrated interest in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, or international affairs.
• Excellent organizational skills, initiative, and attention to detail.
• Strong written and spoken communication skills in English; knowledge of French is an advantage.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe applications.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to new challenges.

Additional Details

• Location: Geneva, Switzerland
• Duration: 6 months, starting approximately 4 August 2025
• Stipend: 900 CHF/month
• Application Deadline: 30 June 2025

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly. Due to anticipated high demand, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

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