Legal Affairs Internship in USA 2025

The Legal Affairs Internship in USA at the United Nations Secretariat offers an invaluable opportunity for aspiring legal professionals. This unpaid internship is designed for 2025 and allows interns to work 20 to 35 hours per week, fully in person at the UN Headquarters in New York.

No prior professional experience is required, making it accessible to recent graduates or students in the final year of their degree programs, with a strong preference for those holding a law degree.

Details of Legal Affairs Internship in USA:

• Title: Legal Affairs Internship in USA
• Employer: United Nations Secretariat (UN)
• Location: New York, United States
• Category: Internship
• Work Location: UNHQ-31 floor – In person in New York
• Expected duration: 3-6 months

Internship Overview:

• This internship is based within the United Nations Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict (TOE), Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict (SRSG-SVC).
• The TOE was established by United Nations Security Council resolution 1888 (2009) to support national authorities in enhancing the rule of law, with the objective of guaranteeing accountability for individuals responsible for conflict-related sexual violence.
• The TOE Internship is initially scheduled for a duration of three months, with the possibility of extension up to six months, contingent upon the requirements of the TOE.
• The fellowship is unpaid and may be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis.
• Interns are expected to work four to five days per week (20-35 hours) under the supervision of a staff member within their designated department or office.
• The internship work hours shall be established through individual discussions between the intern and the supervisor(s), taking into account the organization’s minimum requirements and the time zone difference between the hosting office and the intern’s location.

Responsibilities of Legal Affairs Internship in USA:

• Support the monitoring of pertinent developments in nations of interest to the TOE;
• Provide support for standard administrative duties associated with the activities of the TOE and its assistance to the Office of the SRSG-SVC;
• Aid in the coordination of conferences, events, and meetings;
• Support in note-taking and in drafting summaries and action items for internal and external meetings;
• Assist members of the TOE with research activities and other related responsibilities;
• Assist TOE members in attending meetings with delegates from Permanent Missions, engagements with other Secretariat offices, and sessions of the Security Council, General Assembly, and various other multilateral forums;
• Assist in the development of public information, social media content, presentations, and documents for TOE members; and
• Carry out any additional duties as directed by the supervisor.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Candidates are required to fulfill at least one of the following criteria:
  • Be currently enrolled in, or have successfully completed, a graduate program (such as a second university degree or its equivalent, or a higher qualification); or
  • Be currently enrolled in or have successfully completed the final academic year of a university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent).
• Applicants must also:
  • Possess proficiency in standard software applications;
  • Possess a demonstrated strong interest in the endeavors of the United Nations and a personal dedication to the principles of the Charter; and
  • Possess a proven ability to engage effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, demonstrating a propensity to understand, consider, and tolerate differing opinions and perspectives.
• A law degree is preferred for an apprenticeship with the TOE.
• No prior professional experience is necessary to be eligible for the United Nations Internship Programme.
• Your training, education, advanced coursework, or talents should contribute positively to the United Nations during your internship.
• Have you previously completed an internship with the United Nations? If applicable, kindly specify the UN entity involved along with the corresponding assignment dates.

Application Requirements:

A completed online application (Cover Note and Personal History Profile) is required. Incomplete applications will not be considered for review.

• The Cover Note must include:
  • Degree Programme (Please specify your current field of study)
  • Graduation Date (Please specify the date on which you are expected to graduate or the date on which you graduated from the program.)
  • Enumerate the IT skills and software applications in which you possess proficiency.
  • Identify your three primary fields of interest.
  • Please explain why you believe you are the most suitable candidate for this particular internship.
  • Please describe your motivation for applying to the United Nations Internship Programme.
• Please ensure that your online Personal History Profile includes a comprehensive account of all previous work experiences, IT competencies, and three professional references.
• Due to the large number of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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Languages:

English and French serve as the official working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the internship opportunity advertised, proficiency in English is required. Proficiency in French is preferred. Proficiency in an additional official language of the United Nations is considered advantageous.

Intern Specific text:

Interns do not receive financial compensation from the United Nations. Expenses related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living costs shall be borne by the interns or their sponsoring organizations. Interns who are neither citizens nor permanent residents of the country where the internship takes place may be obligated to secure the appropriate visa and work or employment authorization. Applicants who are successful should clarify their particular visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer.

Benefits of Legal Affairs Internship in USA:

• Hands-On Legal Experience
  Interns actively participate in research, drafting, and coordination, gaining practical exposure to international legal processes and conflict-related justice initiatives.
• Insight into UN Operations
  Work directly within the United Nations Secretariat, understanding how global policies, Security Council resolutions, and international law are implemented.
• Networking Opportunities
  Collaborate with experts, delegates, and UN staff, building connections that can support future legal and international careers.
• Cultural Awareness
  Engage with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, enhancing your ability to navigate and respect multiple perspectives in professional settings.
• Professional Development
  Develop key skills such as research, communication, administration, and event coordination that are valued across international organizations.
• Exposure to Multilateral Diplomacy
  Attend meetings with Permanent Missions, the Security Council, and the General Assembly, gaining insight into high-level diplomatic processes.
• Contribution to Global Justice
  Support efforts that promote accountability for conflict-related sexual violence, making a meaningful impact on international human rights.
• Flexible Work Hours
  Internships offer part-time or full-time options, allowing students and recent graduates to balance academic or personal commitments.
• Enhanced Resume
  Experience with the UN adds a prestigious credential to your CV, demonstrating commitment to international law and humanitarian work.
• Personal Growth
  Interns gain confidence, cultural sensitivity, and a deeper understanding of global legal frameworks, fostering both professional and personal development.

How to Apply for Legal Affairs Internship in USA?

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Additional Information:

Visa and Employment Authorization Mandatory Requirements: For internships conducted in the United States, individuals who are neither U.S. citizens nor permanent residents, nor on another non-immigrant status such as F1 or J1 visas, must obtain a G4 visa. The designated individual shall be responsible for verifying that they possess a valid visa and approved employment authorization (CPT/OPT/AT), permitting them to participate in the internship.

About Fee:

The United Nations does not impose any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, processing, or training. The United Nations does not involve itself with information regarding applicants’ bank accounts.

Conclusion:

The Legal Affairs Internship in the USA at the United Nations offers a hands-on, in-person experience at UN Headquarters in New York. Interns gain practical exposure to international law, research, and coordination while contributing to efforts addressing conflict-related sexual violence. This unpaid opportunity provides invaluable professional growth, cultural insight, and a chance to support global justice initiatives.

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