Comprehensive Guide to the Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) Role at UNDP
The Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) position at UNDP in Copenhagen is an internship role focused on communications, public engagement, and partnership support within the UNDP Nordic Representation Office. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the job:
About UNDP and the Nordic Representation Office
UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is a global organization working in over 170 countries to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and support sustainable development. The Nordic Representation Office, located in Copenhagen (with satellite offices in Stockholm, Oslo, and Helsinki), focuses on partnership-building and public outreach in the Nordic countries.
As an intern in this office, you will work closely with UNDP’s Partnership Specialist and Deputy Director, supporting efforts to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders in Sweden and the Nordic region. You will also help raise awareness about UNDP’s work through social media, events, and other communication efforts.
Key Responsibilities
Since the office is small and dynamic, the intern will take on a variety of tasks, including:
1. Communications & Social Media Management
- Create and publish social media content for platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.
- Help manage and update the websites undp.se and globalamålen.se with new content.
- Translate news articles and materials between Swedish and English.
- Use tools like Canva to design social media graphics or promotional materials.
2. Public Events & Outreach
- Assist in planning and conducting public events such as:
- Conferences
- Seminars
- Report launches
- Prepare briefing materials for meetings, events, and visits by international UNDP representatives.
- Work with key stakeholders, including Swedish government agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions.
3. Administrative & Organizational Support
- Perform general administrative tasks related to partnerships and communications.
- Help with data collection, documentation, and coordination for UNDP’s outreach efforts.
What They’re Looking For
To be successful in this role, you should have: ✅ Excellent communication skills in Swedish and English (both written and spoken).
✅ A strong interest in global development, international relations, and UNDP’s work.
✅ Social media and digital communication skills, with knowledge of tools like Canva being an advantage.
✅ The ability to work independently in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment.
✅ Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Having knowledge of the UN system and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a plus but not required.
Eligibility & Requirements
To apply, you must meet one of these academic requirements: ✔ Be enrolled in a Master’s degree program OR
✔ Be in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree OR
✔ Have recently graduated (within the past year) OR
✔ Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program.
Internship Conditions
- The internship lasts for 6 months and is based at UN City in Copenhagen.
- Interns receive a monthly stipend (varies by location).
- The internship does NOT lead to employment at UNDP.
- Any additional expenses (such as travel and accommodation) must be covered by the intern.
- If the intern receives financial support from another institution, UNDP will only pay the difference.
Application Process
When applying, you must submit:http://UNDP Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) – Copenhagen
📌 An updated CV with contact details of at least two professional references.
📌 A cover letter explaining why you are a good fit for the internship.
Applications must be submitted through the UNDP job portal before April 11, 2025.http://@vacancyspaces.com
Why This Internship is Valuable
✅ Gain international work experience in a UN organization.
✅ Learn about partnerships, public engagement, and communications in a global development context.
✅ Work in a diverse and multicultural environment at UN City in Copenhagen.
✅ Develop skills in digital media, event planning, and policy engagement.
✅ Network with professionals in the United Nations system and Nordic development organizations.
Would you like help with your CV, cover letter, or interview preparation for this position? Let me know how I can assist! 😊
Sure! Here’s a detailed, in-depth explanation of the Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) role at UNDP in Copenhagen, covering every aspect of the position, its responsibilities, required qualifications, benefits, and career development opportunities.
Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) – A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction to UNDP and the Nordic Representation Office
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading agencies within the United Nations system, dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and promoting sustainable development worldwide. UNDP operates in 170 countries, working with national governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector to develop policies, leadership skills, and institutional capabilities to foster economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social progress.
Within this vast international network, the UNDP Nordic Representation Office plays a crucial role in engaging with stakeholders in the Nordic countries (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland). The office is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with satellite branches in Stockholm, Oslo, and Helsinki. It serves as a bridge between UNDP’s global initiatives and the Nordic region, which is known for being one of the most active supporters of international development and humanitarian efforts.
The office focuses on public engagement, strategic communications, and donor relations, ensuring that governments, organizations, and citizens in the Nordic countries remain informed and engaged in UNDP’s mission.
Overview of the Internship Position
The Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) is an exciting six-month opportunity for a student or recent graduate who is passionate about global development, international relations, and communications. This role is designed for someone who is fluent in both Swedish and English and eager to contribute to UNDP’s public engagement and outreach efforts in Sweden and other Nordic countries.
Since the UNDP Nordic Representation Office is relatively small, the intern will have a diverse and hands-on experience, gaining exposure to various aspects of communications, media engagement, event planning, and administrative support. The intern will be based at UN City in Copenhagen, a major UN hub that houses several UN agencies, offering an excellent environment for networking and professional growth.
This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience within an international organization, develop valuable skills, and build a network in the UN system and development sector.
Detailed Responsibilities and Key Tasks
The role of the Partnership and Communications Intern includes a variety of tasks related to communications, media management, event organization, and partnership support. Some of the key responsibilities include:
1. Communications and Social Media Management
- Assist in the creation and dissemination of communications materials for social media platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.
- Support in updating and maintaining UNDP’s Swedish websites, including undp.se and globalamålen.se (a site dedicated to the Sustainable Development Goals).
- Draft, edit, and translate news articles, press releases, blog posts, and reports between Swedish and English to ensure that UNDP’s key messages are effectively communicated.
- Monitor social media trends and engagement analytics, helping to optimize UNDP’s digital presence and outreach strategies.
- Use tools like Canva, Adobe Photoshop, and other graphic design software to create visually appealing content for social media and other digital platforms.
- Support the development of newsletters, infographics, and other communication materials to be distributed to partners and the public.
2. Public Events and Stakeholder Engagement
- Assist in the planning and execution of public events, seminars, conferences, and report launches to promote UNDP’s work in the Nordic region.
- Support the logistics and coordination of events by liaising with speakers, preparing presentations, and organizing materials.
- Attend and report on public events, meetings, and panel discussions relevant to UNDP’s work in Sweden and the broader Nordic region.
- Prepare briefing materials and background documents for high-profile events, meetings, and international visits involving UNDP officials and partner organizations.
- Engage with key stakeholders, including Swedish government agencies, universities, NGOs, and private sector partners, to strengthen UNDP’s partnerships and outreach efforts.
3. Administrative and Organizational Support
- Perform general administrative tasks, including maintaining databases, tracking engagements, and organizing documentation for the office.
- Assist in drafting internal reports, correspondence, and summary documents related to partnership activities.
- Support internal communications within the UNDP Nordic Representation Office and contribute to knowledge-sharing efforts.
- Handle inquiries from external stakeholders, media representatives, and the public, ensuring they receive accurate and timely information.
Required Qualifications and Skills
To be eligible for this internship, candidates must meet certain academic, language, and skill requirements:
1. Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application:
- Be enrolled in a Master’s degree program in a relevant field such as communications, journalism, political science, international relations, development studies, or public administration.
- Be in the final academic year of a Bachelor’s degree program in a relevant field.
- Have recently graduated from a Bachelor’s or Master’s program (within one year prior to the application).
- Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program where the internship is a required component.
2. Language Requirements
- Fluency in both spoken and written Swedish and English is mandatory.
- The ability to translate documents accurately between Swedish and English is highly valued.
- Additional language skills, particularly in Danish, Norwegian, or Finnish, are considered a plus but are not required.
3. Key Competencies and Skills
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong social media and digital communication skills.
- Knowledge of web content management tools and graphic design tools (such as Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or InDesign) is an advantage.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively in a team.
- A strong interest in international development, UNDP’s work, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Internship Conditions and Benefits
1. Stipend and Financial Support
- UNDP interns receive a monthly stipend, the amount of which varies based on the duty location.
- If the intern is financially supported by an institution, government, or third party, UNDP will pay only the difference between the external funding and the UNDP stipend.
- All other expenses, including travel, accommodation, and living costs, must be covered by the intern or their supporting institution.
2. Professional Development Opportunities
- Exposure to a highly international and professional environment at UN City in Copenhagen.
- Networking opportunities with UNDP staff, partner organizations, and other UN agencies.
- Hands-on experience in communications, social media management, public relations, and event planning.
- The opportunity to learn from experienced UN professionals and expand knowledge in international development and policy-making.
3. Employment Considerations
- The internship does not lead to employment with UNDP, as per UNDP’s internship policy.
- However, the experience gained can be valuable for future careers in international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, or private-sector roles in communications and development.
How to Apply
To apply for the Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) role, candidates must submit: ✅ An updated CV with at least two professional references.
✅ A cover letter explaining why they are suitable for the position.
Applications must be submitted via UNDP’s online job portal before April 11, 2025.
Final Thoughts
This internship is an excellent opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of communications, partnerships, and international development. By joining UNDP’s Nordic Representation Office, interns will contribute to meaningful global initiatives while developing skills that are highly valuable for careers in communications, policy-making, and international affairs.
Would you like assistance with your application, CV, or cover letter? Let me know how I can help!
Sure! Let’s expand even further, providing a deep dive into the Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) role at UNDP. This will cover additional details about the work environment, career impact, challenges, networking opportunities, personal development, and potential career paths after the internship.
A Deep Dive into the Partnership and Communications Intern (Swedish Speaking) Role at UNDP
The Work Environment at UNDP Nordic Representation Office
Interning at the UNDP Nordic Representation Office in Copenhagen offers an exceptional opportunity to work in a fast-paced, professional, and multicultural setting. The UN City in Copenhagen, where the office is located, houses multiple UN agencies, making it a hub for international cooperation and development efforts.
What Makes the UNDP Nordic Office Special?
- Proximity to Nordic Governments – The Nordic countries are among the strongest supporters of international development aid, and the office plays a crucial role in maintaining relationships with donors.
- Small and Dynamic Team – Unlike larger UN offices, the Nordic Representation Office is relatively small, which allows interns to be deeply involved in projects and initiatives.
- Interdisciplinary Work – The internship combines elements of media, communications, public affairs, and diplomacy, giving interns exposure to multiple career paths.
- Diversity and Inclusion – The UNDP strongly emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive workplace.
A Typical Day as a Partnership and Communications Intern
The internship offers a varied and dynamic work schedule, with no two days being exactly the same. Here’s an idea of what a typical day might look like:
Morning ☀️
- Check social media engagement: Reviewing analytics from LinkedIn, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook to assess the performance of previous posts.
- Draft a social media post: Writing engaging content based on recent UNDP reports or global events related to sustainability and development.
- Update the Swedish UNDP websites: Making small edits or adding news articles to undp.se and globalamålen.se.
- Prepare briefing notes for an upcoming event: Gathering facts and figures for a conference on Nordic foreign aid policies.
Afternoon 🌍
- Assist in an event setup: Helping coordinate a seminar with government officials, business leaders, and NGOs about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Translate an article from English to Swedish: Ensuring accurate translations for local audiences.
- Attend a stakeholder meeting: Taking notes while UNDP staff discuss ongoing partnerships with Swedish organizations.
Evening Wrap-Up ✍️
- Summarize event highlights: Writing a short blog post or social media update about a panel discussion that took place during the day.
- Team meeting: Discussing upcoming projects and brainstorming new ways to engage with the Swedish public on key UNDP initiatives.
Challenges Interns Might Face
While the internship offers incredible learning opportunities, it also comes with challenges that interns must be prepared for:
1. Managing Multiple Tasks at Once
Since the Nordic Representation Office is relatively small, interns are given a lot of responsibility. This means juggling multiple tasks, from translating reports to organizing events and managing social media.
🡆 How to Overcome This?
- Prioritize tasks using productivity tools like Trello, Asana, or Notion.
- Keep open communication with your supervisor to set realistic deadlines.
2. Working in a Fast-Paced Environment
The UNDP office deals with high-profile stakeholders, including government officials and international organizations. Events and meetings can be scheduled on short notice, requiring quick adaptability.
🡆 How to Overcome This?
- Stay organized by maintaining a detailed calendar and to-do list.
- Be proactive and ask for guidance when needed.
3. Adapting to UNDP’s Communication Style
The UNDP follows a formal, diplomatic communication style, especially when dealing with official reports, press releases, and social media posts. Interns need to write in a tone that aligns with the organization’s values and standards.
🡆 How to Overcome This?
- Read previous UNDP publications to understand their tone and structure.
- Ask for feedback from colleagues on how to refine your writing style.
Networking and Career Development
One of the most significant benefits of this internship is the opportunity to build a strong professional network.
1. Networking with UN Officials and Diplomats
Interns regularly interact with UNDP staff, government representatives, and NGO leaders. These connections can be invaluable for a career in international relations, diplomacy, or development work.
2. Gaining Mentorship from Senior UNDP Staff
- Interns work closely with senior officials in communications, partnerships, and policy analysis.
- Seeking mentorship opportunities during the internship can provide valuable career guidance.
3. Connecting with Other UN Interns
Since multiple UN agencies are housed in UN City, interns can network with peers from organizations such as UNICEF, WHO, and UNHCR.
Potential Career Paths After the Internship
Many interns use this opportunity as a stepping stone toward careers in communications, public affairs, and international development.
1. International Organizations (UN, EU, World Bank, OECD)
- Many interns continue working with the UN or other international bodies after gaining relevant experience.
- Potential roles: Communications Officer, Policy Analyst, Development Consultant.
2. Government and Diplomacy
- Interns with strong interest in foreign policy often move into government roles.
- Potential roles: Foreign Affairs Analyst, Embassy Press Officer, Public Relations Advisor.
3. Journalism and Media
- The communications and writing experience gained can lead to careers in international journalism.
- Potential roles: News Correspondent, International Media Advisor, Digital Content Strategist.
4. NGOs and Non-Profit Organizations
- Many NGOs value UN experience, making it easier to transition into non-profit work.
- Potential roles: Advocacy Coordinator, Fundraising Specialist, Social Media Manager.
Table of Contents
Final Thoughts – Is This Internship Right for You?
This internship is perfect for students and recent graduates who:
✅ Are passionate about global development, diplomacy, and international relations.
✅ Have strong communication skills in both Swedish and English.
✅ Want to gain hands-on experience in media, social media management, and event planning.
✅ Are looking for a stepping stone into a career with the UN or other international organizations.
The experience gained from this role will equip interns with critical skills that will be valuable in any future career path. While it is demanding, it is also highly rewarding, offering an opportunity to work on meaningful global projects that make a real impact.
Would you like help preparing your CV, cover letter, or interview strategy for this role? Let me know—I’d be happy to assist! 🚀😊
