UNHCR's Energy and Environment Unit is seeking a highly motivated and creative intern to help us develop and implement a communications strategy. If you have what it takes to cut through the noise and make the energy and environment needs of refugees seen and heard, then you are the kind of person we are looking for.
Background
Energy access and environmental management need to be considered in humanitarian operations to enhance the well-being and protection of affected populations, and the sustainability of operations. The majority of refugees rely on their surrounding natural environment for food, water, livelihoods, shelter and fuel. However, a large population in an area can put substantial pressure on the surrounding resources, with consequences for persons dependent on the surrounding environment. Additionally, limited access to energy can have severe repercussions on the socio-economic situation and safety of refugees.
UNHCR, mandated to protect the rights and wellbeing of refugees, has implemented measures to address these issues, including providing refugees with fuel-efficient stoves, solar street lights, and solar lanterns, and implementing environmental activities such as land rehabilitation. Recently, however, UNHCR's engagement in energy, including renewable energy, has expanded and is receiving increasing attention globally. UNHCR has developed its first Global Strategy for Safe Access to Fuel and Energy (SAFE). This will allow UNHCR to have a more comprehensive response to energy issues, folding in cutting-edge technologies, approaches and ideas.
In this regard, the UNHCR Energy and Environment Unit would like to enhance internal and external communications on issues surrounding energy as well as environment in humanitarian situations. To do this, the Energy and Environment Unit within the Operational Solutions and Transition Section (OSTS) is seeking an intern who will be able to assist with various related tasks.
Description of duties
Below is a broad description of activities to be undertaken over the course of the internship:
- Assist with the organization of workshops/events for the Energy and Environment Unit, including administrative works like identification of participants, drafting invitation letter, preparing programmes and managing the logistics of the participants;
- Support organising events and research activities related to the UNHCR Strategy for SAFE (i.e. SAFE Learning Programme; SAFE Advisory Board Workshop);
- Manage the Unit's online presence on both external and internal platforms (Twitter, Facebook, SharePoint);
- Assist with the development of information materials, including mapping of environment and energy activities across UNHCR operations;
- Assist the unit with strengthening the network between HQ and field staff dedicated to energy and environment issues;
- Support any communications (presentations, editing, publishing, etc.) and outreach activities related to the Energy and Environment Unit;
- Support the Unit with any reporting requirements, and additional duties as needed.
Qualifications:
- Pursuing or recently graduated from an advanced degree in communications, journalism, environmental sciences, sustainable development or a related field;
- Demonstrated experience with communications/marketing/public relations, and related tools;
- Interest in humanitarian operations and/or energy and environment an advantage;
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in written and spoken English;
- Fluency in English, knowledge of another UN language an asset;
- Computer literacy (MS Office Suite, desktop publishing/design, social media, Prezi), and willingness to learn additional programmes (at UNHCR) if necessary;
- Ability to navigate in a dynamic, multi-cultural environment;
- Ability to think creatively, and to harness and incorporate innovative concepts
Duration: The successful candidate will be based at UNHCR in Geneva, Switzerland, on a full-time basis for a period of 6 months, starting in June 2016 (or as soon as possible). Please note that the internship is not remunerated.
HOW TO APPLY:
If this sounds interesting to you, please send your application by 14 May 2016 toenvironment@unhcr.org. Your application should include a motivation letter, your CV, and a sample of previous work (e.g. information materials or a writing sample) in English.
Communications Intern - UNHCR
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