• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme, or have recently graduated from a university or equivalent studies , in a field relevant to the internship assignment. As per UN rules, “recent graduates” are generally defined as candidates who graduated within one to three years prior to the date of application, depending on the specific UN agency.
• Relevant fields may include, but are not limited to: development studies, economics, public policy, international relations, political science, law, human rights, social sciences, sociology, psychology, education, health, public health, nutrition, agriculture, environmental studies, climate change, water and sanitation, engineering, energy, disaster risk reduction, migration studies, communications, journalism, information technology, data science, statistics, business administration, finance, accounting, human resources, procurement, logistics, public administration and other related disciplines.
• Strong academic performance, demonstrated through academic records or other appropriate evidence.
• Working knowledge of Tajik and/or Russian and good written and spoken English. Additional language skills relevant to the assignment are an advantage.
• Good organizational, analytical, research, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural, multidisciplinary and inclusive environment.
• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, discretion, tact, integrity and willingness to learn.
• Good computer literacy and ability to work with standard office and online collaboration tools.
• Knowledge of data-analysis, statistical, visualization or digital tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, SPSS, STATA, GIS or comparable platforms) is an asset where relevant.
• Previous volunteer, internship, academic research or work experience with an international organization, UN entity, government institution, NGO or other development partner is an advantage, but is not mandatory.

8. CORE COMPETENCIES

• Integrity and adherence to UN values and ethical standards.
• Professionalism and commitment to quality.
• Accountability and reliability.
• Respect for diversity and inclusion.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Planning and organizing.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Learning orientation, initiative and adaptability.
• Commitment to the principles of Leave No One Behind, human rights, gender equality and accessibility.

9. SAFEGUARDING, ETHICS AND CONDUCT

Interns are expected to comply with the applicable rules, policies and standards of the UN entity with which they are placed, including requirements relating to ethics, confidentiality, information security, prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, prevention of sexual harassment, safeguarding and protection from discrimination and abuse.

Where an assignment involves contact with children or other persons in vulnerable situations, access to personal or sensitive data, field activities, or other elevated-risk functions, the applicable UN entity will assess the assignment and apply the relevant safeguarding, security, data-protection and risk-management measures. Any additional screening or documentation required for a specific assignment will be communicated to the selected candidate.

10. LOCATION AND WORKING ARRANGEMENTS

The primary duty station is Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Depending on the specific assignment, limited travel within Tajikistan and/or work at other UN or project locations may be required, subject to applicable security and administrative arrangements.

Working arrangements, including office-based, hybrid or other modalities, will be determined by the respective UN entity in accordance with applicable policies and operational requirements.

11. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Qualified candidates are requested to submit:

1. Cover letter indicating the area(s) of work of interest.
2. Curriculum vitae (CV).
3. Proof of current enrolment in a degree programme or, for recent graduates, a copy of the relevant degree/diploma.
4. Academic transcript or other evidence of academic performance.
5. At least two references, where requested by the recruitment process.
6. Any additional documents required by the specific UN entity or internship opportunity.

Applications that do not meet the mandatory requirements of the relevant recruitment process may not be considered.

12. ROSTER AND SELECTION ARRANGEMENTS

The roster will be used by participating UN entities and offices in Tajikistan to identify potential candidates for future national internship opportunities. Inclusion in the roster does not guarantee selection, placement, duration, funding or a specific assignment.

When an internship opportunity becomes available, shortlisted roster candidates may be contacted and assessed against the requirements of the specific assignment. Selection will be conducted in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the recruiting UN entity.

An intern may be assigned to one UN entity or office and may, where appropriate, contribute to inter-agency or joint UN initiatives. The scope of work, supervision, deliverables and duration will be confirmed before commencement of each internship.

The HR Working Group will be responsible for maintaining and periodically updating the roster throughout its 24-month validity period.

13. REMUNERATION AND TRAVEL

Internship arrangements, including any stipend, insurance, travel, daily subsistence allowance or other support, will be governed by the applicable policy and procedures of the respective UN entity and the specific internship opportunity. No entitlement beyond what is expressly provided under the applicable rules will arise from inclusion in the roster.

14. CONFIDENTIALITY AND USE OF INFORMATION

Interns may have access to internal, confidential, personal or otherwise sensitive information. Such information must be handled strictly in accordance with applicable UN policies and instructions. Interns must not disclose, reproduce, transmit or use confidential information except as authorized in connection with their assignment.

15. NON-DISCRIMINATION

UN has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.

UN is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.