Job Description

INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION




ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems. ITU also organizes global Telecom events bringing together the most influential representatives of government and the private sector to exchange ideas and knowledge for the benefit of all.

ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.

Unpaid Internship - LDCS, LLDCS, SIDS and CISNS

Vacancy notice no:

2165

Sector:

BDT

Department:

DDR

Country of contract:

Switzerland

Duty station:

Geneva

Position number:

[[positionNumber]]

Grade:

[[PositionGrade]]

Type of contract:

Internship

Duration of contract:

6 months

Recruitment open to:

External

Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time):

20 November 2025





ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT





The Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) is responsible for the organization and coordination of the work of the Telecommunication Development Sector of the Union. BDT deals mainly with development policies, strategies, programming, projects, as well as technical cooperation activities to enable and foster universal access to affordable, high-quality and secure telecommunications/ICTs and Foster equitable and inclusive use of telecommunications/ICTs to empower people and societies for sustainable development. To effectively and efficiently serve the needs of Member States, BDT is organized into four functional areas:




Operations Coordination Department (Office of the Deputy to the Director) (DDR) Projects, Partnerships & Digital Skills Department (PPS) Digital Networks & Environment Department (DNE) Digital Knowledge Society Department (DKS)




The Office of the Deputy to the Director and Operations Coordination Department (DDR) are responsible for ensuring operation readiness and providing support for the functioning of the Regional Offices and Geneva HQ, especially the implementation of projects and programmes. Functional areas, such as meetings, fellowship and IT support reports to this Department. The unit for special attention in all aspects related to LDCs, LLDCs and SIDs is the responsibility of this Department. The Deputy to the Director is responsible for assisting and advising the Director in the direction and management of the Bureau including on all questions related to personnel, financial and operational planning process. The Department is responsible for leading the operational planning and implementation support, within the framework of the Action Plan. The Department is also responsible for coordinating conferences and events, editorial works and documentation control, monitoring the implementation of decisions emanating from ITU and BDT governing bodies, including TDAG, Council, Conferences and Assemblies of the other Sectors on matters of relevance to BDT. The Department is responsible for coordination of the Bureau's cooperation with other Sectors and General Secretariat.

TERMS OF REFERENCE

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1. Background and Rationale



The LLS Unit of the ITU Telecommunication Development Sector works to provide concentrated assistance to Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and countries which constitute those that are in special need. Our mission is to report on ITU work in these vulnerable countries and foster partnerships, advocate for policies that empower LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS to harness the full potential of digital technologies. Through our core expertise and collaborative efforts, we strive to create an environment where connectivity becomes a catalyst for positive change, enabling these nations to build resilient, knowledge-driven economies and foster social progress, leveraging Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) for sustainable development, capacity-building, and digital transformation.



The intern will support the Unit's ongoing work, gaining hands-on experience in project management, knowledge sharing, and inter-agency coordination while contributing to ITU's development mandate.





2. Objectives of the Internship



The internship aims to:

Provide the intern with exposure to the operations of an international organization in the field of digital development and cooperation. Enhance the intern's knowledge of ICTs for development, particularly in the context of LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. Support the LLS Unit in research, analysis, communication, and project-related activities.



3. Under the supervision of the Senior Liaison Officer, the intern will:



Assist in the preparation of briefs, reports, presentations, and meeting summaries for stakeholders. Conduct desk research and analysis on digital development issues affecting LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. Support the organization of meetings, workshops, and side events (logistics, documentation, follow-up). Contribute to the drafting and editing of project proposals, concept notes, and donor correspondence. Update and maintain knowledge databases, country profiles, and internal tracking tools. Provide communication support (e.g., drafting website content, social media snippets, success stories). Carry out other related tasks as required.



4. Learning Opportunities for the Intern



The intern will:

Gain a practical understanding of UN project design, coordination, and reporting processes. Learn about South-South and Triangular Cooperation and digital transformation initiatives in LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. Enhance skills in research, drafting, and stakeholder engagement in a multicultural environment.

COMPETENCIES

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Applying Expertise; Effective Communication; Learning and Knowledge Sharing; Organizational Commitment; Results-Focused, and; Teamwork and Collaboration.




Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize information clearly.

Excellent drafting and communication skills in English.

Good organizational skills and attention to detail.

Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with digital collaboration tools (Teams, SharePoint, Trello, etc.) is an advantage.

Demonstrated interest in ICT for development and sustainable development goals.

QUALIFICATION REQUIRED

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Education

: Currently enrolled in or recently completed a master's or bachelor's degree in international development, law, economics, political science, communications, or related field.

Experience

: No work experience required.

Languages

: Advanced level of English. Knowledge of French and/or Spanish is an asset.

REMENURATION INFORMATION

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Unpaid Internship

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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ITU Internship Requirements

To be eligible for an internship at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), candidates must:

Be under 30 years of age (Exceptions may be considered for candidates pursuing a Ph.D.). Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate programme, or be a recent graduate (within six months prior to the start of the internship). Be a citizen of a Member State of ITU.

Please note that a non-remunerated Internship position at ITU does not carry the same conditions of employment as a Short-term or a Fixed-term position. Mandatory Medical Insurance, travel expenses, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or sponsoring institutions.

INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS





Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.