UNDP Business and Human Rights (BHR) Internship: A Comprehensive Guide for Applicants

February 25, 2025

11 minutes read

This UNDP Business and Human Rights Internship is a six-month, full-time, unpaid position based in Geneva, Switzerland, with the option of working remotely. It is part of the UNDP Business, Human Rights, and Peace Team, which operates under the Governance, Rule of Law, and Peacebuilding Hub. The role supports UNDP’s global initiative on Business and Human Rights (B+HR), which helps governments, businesses, and civil society improve human rights protections in corporate operations.

Key Aspects of the Jobhttp://UNDP Internship – Business and Human Rights

1. Focus Areas

The intern will work on a variety of business and human rights topics, including:

UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights (policies to improve human rights protection in businesses)
Right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment
Human rights due diligence (ensuring businesses assess and address human rights risks)
Modern slavery (forced labor, child labor, human trafficking)
Sustainable finance (making sure investments align with human rights standards)

2. Responsibilities

The intern will support the Business and Human Rights Team in multiple ways:

Assisting with events and meetings, including the Global Forum on Business and Human Rights
Engaging with UN agencies, businesses, civil society, and other stakeholders
Preparing background documents, concept notes, reports, and discussion papers
Helping with webinars, online dialogues, and knowledge-sharing sessions
Reviewing and improving internal guidance and policy papers
Supporting fundraising and resource mobilization through research and drafting proposals
Contributing to communication efforts (e.g., social media, website updates)
Assisting with research on key human rights topics, such as environmental rights and corporate accountability

3. Learning Opportunitieshttp://@vacancyspaces.com

This internship provides hands-on experience in:

International human rights law and corporate responsibility
The UN system and UNDP’s work on business and human rights
Policy development, advocacy, and event organization
Engagement with governments, businesses, and civil society on human rights issues

Requirements

To apply, candidates must:

Be enrolled in or have recently completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., law, human rights, political science, development studies, business administration)
Have experience or familiarity with human rights, international organizations, or sustainable development
Be fluent in English (knowledge of Arabic, French, or Spanish is a plus)
Have experience with Microsoft Office and web-based applications

Application Process

Applicants need to submit:
✅ A Cover Letter explaining their interest and qualifications
✅ A CV (Resume)
✅ Availability timeframe

If selected, additional documents will be required, such as:
✔ University enrollment confirmation
✔ Academic transcript
✔ Letter of recommendation
✔ Copy of passport
✔ Medical insurance proof

Additional Details

Internship Type: Unpaid (a stipend may be provided under certain conditions)
Location: Geneva, Switzerland (partially remote)
Duration: 6 months
Deadline to Apply: March 3, 2025

Internship Opportunity at UNDP: Business and Human Rights (Geneva, Switzerland/Remote)

Introduction

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering an internship in Business and Human Rights (BHR) for candidates interested in human rights, governance, sustainable development, and corporate accountability. This position is an opportunity to gain valuable experience working within the UN system, contributing to the Business and Human Rights (B+HR) Initiative, which aims to promote corporate respect for human rights globally.

The selected intern will work under the supervision of the Global Adviser on Business and Human Rights in Geneva, Switzerland, and collaborate with other team members in New York and regional offices worldwide. This internship is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates who wish to gain practical knowledge and contribute to global initiatives that ensure businesses respect human rights in their operations.

The internship duration is six months, and candidates may work remotely or from the UNDP office in Geneva. The position is full-time and unpaid, although a stipend may be provided under specific conditions.

About UNDP and the Business and Human Rights Initiative

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s lead development agency, working in about 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and promote sustainable development. UNDP’s work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on governance, peacebuilding, crisis response, and resilience building.

The Governance, Rule of Law, and Peacebuilding Hub is a joint initiative between the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) and the Crisis Bureau (CB). It focuses on accountable, inclusive, and effective governance, conflict prevention, and peacebuilding. The hub’s work integrates policy development, advocacy, and programming to help countries tackle governance challenges and promote human rights, security, and justice.

The Business and Human Rights (B+HR) Initiative is a key program within this hub. It aims to:

Support Governments in strengthening human rights frameworks related to business operations.
Help Businesses integrate human rights into their policies and supply chains.
Engage Civil Society and Other Stakeholders to ensure human rights compliance, monitoring, and accountability.

This initiative operates in 42 countries across multiple regions, including Africa, the Arab States, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Central Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Role and Responsibilities

The intern will support the Business, Human Rights, and Peace Team in various aspects of policy development, advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and research. The internship responsibilities include but are not limited to:

1. Policy and Research Support

Conducting research on business and human rights issues, including:
- UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs)
- National Action Plans (NAPs) on Business and Human Rights
- Corporate human rights due diligence processes
- Modern slavery, forced labor, and child labor in supply chains
- Sustainable finance and responsible investment
- Environmental rights and the corporate sector’s role in climate action
Assisting in the preparation of policy briefs, reports, discussion papers, and concept notes.
Reviewing existing policies and legal frameworks related to business and human rights.

2. Event Planning and Coordination

Supporting the organization of key events, forums, and webinars, including:
- The Global Forum on Business and Human Rights
- Regional Business and Human Rights Fora
- Private-sector engagement meetings and high-level dialogues
Assisting with event logistics, including agenda setting, speaker coordination, and participant engagement.
Helping with post-event follow-ups, reporting, and dissemination of key takeaways.

3. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

Engaging with UN agencies, international organizations, businesses, civil society, academia, and government representatives.
Supporting efforts to mobilize resources and partnerships for business and human rights initiatives.
Assisting in outreach and networking activities to expand UNDP’s business and human rights community.

4. Communication and Awareness

Assisting in the development of social media content, newsletters, and online publications to promote business and human rights topics.
Supporting the management of web-based applications, websites, and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Preparing infographics, presentations, and visual materials to enhance public awareness and engagement.

5. Knowledge Management and Internal Capacity Building

Helping to organize online knowledge-sharing sessions and webinars.
Assisting in updating internal guidance documents, manuals, and toolkits.
Supporting the development of case studies and good practice examples for internal learning.

6. Administrative and General Support

Participating in internal and external meetings, taking notes, and following up on action points.
Assisting with administrative tasks related to project coordination and reporting.
Carrying out any other tasks assigned by the supervisor to support the team’s goals.

Learning and Professional Development Opportunities

By participating in this internship, candidates will gain:
✅ Hands-on experience in business and human rights research, advocacy, and policy development.
✅ Exposure to international human rights frameworks and UN mechanisms related to corporate accountability.
✅ Practical experience in stakeholder engagement, event coordination, and project implementation.
✅ Networking opportunities with UN agencies, NGOs, governments, and private-sector organizations.
✅ Improved research, communication, and analytical skills in an international working environment.

Required Qualifications and Skills

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background

Candidates must be currently enrolled in or have recently completed a degree in a relevant field, such as:

International Law / Human Rights Law
Political Science / International Relations
Public Administration / Development Studies
Business Administration / Corporate Sustainability

Note: If recently graduated, candidates must begin the internship within one year of graduation.

2. Language Requirements

Fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of Arabic, French, or Spanish is an asset.

3. Technical Skills and Experience

Familiarity with UN systems, human rights organizations, or international institutions.
Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Knowledge of web-based applications, social media, and content management.

4. Personal Competencies

Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask.
Excellent research and writing skills.
Ability to work independently and take initiative.
Team player with strong communication and collaboration skills.
High ethical standards and commitment to human rights principles.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit:
📌 A Cover Letter explaining their motivation and qualifications.
📌 A Current CV (Resume).
📌 Availability timeframe (preferred start and end dates in 2024).

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Selected candidates will be asked to submit additional documents, including:
- University enrollment confirmation and transcript.
- Letter of recommendation from a professor.
- Copy of passport and medical insurance proof.

Internship Conditions

Interns are not paid, but a stipend may be provided if they are not financially supported by another institution (e.g., university or scholarship).
Interns must secure their own medical insurance for the duration of the internship.
Interns cannot apply for UNDP staff positions during the internship period.

Final Thoughts

This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global business and human rights initiatives while gaining invaluable professional experience in an international setting. It is ideal for individuals passionate about human rights, corporate accountability, and sustainable development.

Would you like help refining your CV or crafting a compelling cover letter? 😊

UNDP Internship Opportunity: Business and Human Rights (BHR)

A Comprehensive Guide for Applicants

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering a unique and valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates through its Business and Human Rights (BHR) Internship program. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in human rights, business ethics, corporate responsibility, and sustainable development. It is a highly competitive position that attracts applicants from around the world who are passionate about corporate accountability, responsible business practices, and international human rights frameworks.

What Is the UNDP?

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading development agency of the United Nations (UN), working in over 170 countries and territories. It is dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and promoting sustainable development. UNDP collaborates with governments, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations to create long-term development strategies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UNDP focuses on several key areas, including:

Governance and Peacebuilding
Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability
Gender Equality and Social Inclusion
Crisis Prevention and Response
Poverty Reduction and Economic Development

One of UNDP’s most critical areas is Business and Human Rights (BHR), which ensures that corporations, financial institutions, and industries respect human rights in their operations. This internship is an opportunity to actively contribute to this mission.

What Is the Business and Human Rights (BHR) Initiative?

The Business and Human Rights (B+HR) Initiative is a program within UNDP’s Governance and Peacebuilding Hub that supports:

Governments in strengthening human rights frameworks and implementing laws to regulate corporate activities.
Businesses in adopting ethical and responsible policies that respect human rights and protect workers.
Civil society organizations (CSOs) and stakeholders in promoting transparency and accountability.

The initiative operates in more than 42 countries and focuses on:

The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs)
National Action Plans (NAPs) on Business and Human Rights
Corporate human rights due diligence
Supply chain responsibility
Sustainable finance and responsible investment
The intersection of environmental rights, climate change, and business ethics

The intern will work directly within this initiative to support various projects, research, and global engagement efforts.

Internship Overview

This internship opportunity is available to students and recent graduates who want to develop their expertise in business and human rights, corporate governance, and sustainability.

Key Details

📍 Location: Geneva, Switzerland (Remote options available)
⏳ Duration: 6 months (with potential extension)
📅 Start Date: Rolling applications, based on project needs
💼 Work Type: Full-time (Some flexibility may be possible)
💰 Stipend: Unpaid (Limited stipend available in some cases)

This is a learning-based internship aimed at building knowledge, skills, and practical experience in international governance and human rights compliance.

Internship Responsibilities

The selected intern will assist the Business and Human Rights Team in a variety of activities related to policy research, stakeholder engagement, event coordination, and knowledge sharing.

1. Policy and Research Support

Conduct in-depth research on business and human rights issues, including:
- Corporate accountability mechanisms
- Human rights due diligence frameworks
- Modern slavery, forced labor, and child labor prevention
- Environmental and social governance (ESG) reporting
- Legislative developments related to responsible business conduct
Prepare policy briefs, discussion papers, and thematic reports for UNDP programs.
Analyze corporate sustainability frameworks to assess best practices in human rights compliance.

2. Event Planning and Coordination

Support the organization of high-level international events, such as:
- The UN Forum on Business and Human Rights
- Regional Business and Human Rights Dialogues
- UNDP’s Private Sector Engagement Meetings
Assist in developing event agendas, presentations, and communication materials.
Help coordinate speakers, partners, and participants from governments, NGOs, and the private sector.

3. Stakeholder Engagement and Networking

Work with UN agencies, international organizations, NGOs, and businesses to promote corporate responsibility.
Support advocacy initiatives and awareness-raising campaigns.
Assist in expanding UNDP’s BHR partnerships and collaboration efforts.

4. Communication and Public Engagement

Develop social media content, blog posts, and newsletters to increase awareness about business and human rights.
Assist in updating UNDP’s websites and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Prepare infographics and multimedia presentations.

5. Knowledge Management and Capacity Building

Assist in developing training materials and toolkits on business and human rights.
Help organize webinars, internal training sessions, and knowledge-sharing events.
Document case studies and best practices.

6. Administrative and Operational Support

Attend internal meetings and prepare reports, summaries, and recommendations.
Assist with general administrative tasks related to UNDP’s BHR work.
Support fundraising and resource mobilization efforts.

Qualifications and Skills Required

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background

Applicants must be currently enrolled in or have recently completed a degree in:
🎓 International Law / Human Rights Law
🎓 Political Science / International Relations
🎓 Public Administration / Development Studies
🎓 Business Administration / Corporate Sustainability

📌 Note: If recently graduated, applicants must start the internship within one year of graduation.

2. Language Requirements

🌍 Fluency in English is required.
🌍 Knowledge of Arabic, French, or Spanish is an asset.

3. Technical Skills and Competencies

Strong research and analytical skills.
Excellent writing and communication abilities.
Familiarity with human rights laws and corporate governance standards.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office, social media platforms, and content management tools.

4. Personal Attributes

✅ Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
✅ Ability to work independently and take initiative.
✅ Interest in business ethics, corporate sustainability, and governance.
✅ Commitment to human rights and social justice.

Professional Development and Benefits

Although the internship is unpaid, it offers exceptional learning and career development opportunities, including:

⭐ Hands-on experience in international policy work.
⭐ Exposure to the UN system and global governance frameworks.
⭐ Networking opportunities with UN professionals and experts.
⭐ Professional mentorship and career guidance.
⭐ Improvement of research, writing, and presentation skills.

This experience will enhance career prospects in UN agencies, international NGOs, corporate sustainability departments, and academia.

How to Apply

📌 Application Requirements:

Cover Letter (Explain motivation, skills, and interest in business and human rights).
CV (Resume).
Availability (Start and end dates for the internship period).

📌 Selection Process:

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Selected candidates must submit additional documents, including:
- University enrollment proof or transcript.
- Letter of recommendation.
- Medical insurance proof.

📌 Application Deadlines: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early submission is advised.

Conclusion

This UNDP Business and Human Rights Internship is a unique opportunity for those passionate about corporate accountability, human rights, and sustainability. If you are looking to build a career in international law, corporate social responsibility (CSR), or sustainable business practices, this experience will provide exceptional professional exposure and skills development.

Would you like help refining your CV or cover letter? Let me know! 😊