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Join UNIDIR as a Graduate Professional – Youth, Peace & Security Focus

Overview

  • Location: Geneva (On-site & Remote)

  • Application Deadline: 13 April 2025

  • Contract Type: Temporary

  • Position Title: Graduate Professional (Youth, Peace and Security)

  • Start Date: May 2025

  • Occupational Rate: 100%

  • Duration: 6 months, with potential for extension

  • Remuneration: Stipend provided – Geneva-based: USD 1,331/month; Remote: USD 665/month

About UNIDIR

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an autonomous body within the United Nations that conducts independent research on disarmament and global security. Headquartered at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, UNIDIR aims to foster a safer world by supporting Member States, UN bodies, and policy experts in advancing peace and security initiatives.

UNIDIR is seeking a Graduate Professional to contribute to its Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda through research, stakeholder engagement, and outreach.

Note: The selected candidate is responsible for all travel, visa, accommodation, and living costs.

Key Responsibilities

The Graduate Professional will assist in cross-programmatic efforts, reporting to both the Head of the Gender and Disarmament Programme and the Head of the Managing Exits from Armed Conflict project. Responsibilities include:

  • Conducting research on the Youth, Peace, and Security agenda

  • Engaging with stakeholders, including UN partners, States, and civil society organizations

  • Supporting fundraising efforts

  • Coordinating UNIDIR’s participation in UN-wide youth initiatives, such as the Youth 2030 agenda

  • Assisting in planning and executing events, including preparing invitations, agendas, logistical notes, and post-event summaries

  • Performing daily administrative, communication, and coordination tasks

  • Undertaking additional tasks as assigned

Required Skills and Competencies

Core Skills

  • Strong research and analytical skills

  • Ability to synthesize information into high-quality reports

  • Organizational and multitasking skills

  • Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and communication abilities (written and verbal)

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and InDesign

  • Interest in international peace, disarmament, and youth engagement

UN Core Competencies

  • Professionalism: Commitment to delivering quality work with integrity

  • Communication: Ability to adapt messages for different audiences and maintain transparency

  • Teamwork: Collaboration with diverse colleagues to achieve goals

  • Planning & Organization: Efficient time management and adaptability

  • Creativity: Proactive problem-solving and openness to new ideas

  • Client Orientation: Understanding and responding effectively to stakeholder needs

Eligibility Criteria

Education

Candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Be enrolled in a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent)

  • Have graduated with a university degree and begin the program within one year of graduation

Preference is given to candidates with postgraduate qualifications in peace and security-related fields such as international relations, political science, social sciences, international law, and gender studies.

Work Experience

  • No prior professional experience required, but familiarity with the YPS agenda is an asset

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and InDesign

  • Demonstrated interest in the UN’s mission and commitment to its values

  • Ability to work effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds

Language Requirements

  • Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory

  • Knowledge of another UN language is an asset

Application Process

To Apply:

  • Submit a cover letter and CV (PDF format, titled as SURNAME_Name_CV-CL) to melissa.nyoni@un.org

  • Email subject line: “UNIDIR GPP YPS Application”

  • Deadline: 13 April 2025 (Midnight Geneva Time)

Note: Incomplete applications will not be processed. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Additional Information

  • Selected candidates must provide proof of valid medical insurance for the entire duration of the program.

  • A medical certificate confirming good health is required before commencing the position.

  • The UN does not assume liability for medical expenses, injuries, illnesses, or death during the Graduate Professional Program.

UNIDIR upholds the United Nations' core values of Integrity, Professionalism, and Respect for Diversity.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply

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