Job Summary
- Employer: The United Nations Human Rights
- Job Type: Internship
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Human Rights Affairs
- Closing Date: 2026-10-04
Key Responsibilities
- Support the effective monitoring and evaluation of programme implementation and results.
- Assist in the management of evaluations included in the Evaluation Plan 2026-2027 .
- Support the screening of consultants and collection and analysis of documents for desk reviews.
- Assist with the preparation of meetings and the revision and proofreading of evaluation reports.
- Assist in drafting and revising guidance, guidelines, checklists and templates relating to evaluation reports and planning documents.
- Support the preparation of executive summaries, evaluation management responses and follow-up action plans.
- Support the evaluation communication, dissemination and use strategy.
- Assist with uploading, reviewing and correcting evaluation-related data in the Decision Tracking System (DTS), Performance Monitoring System (PMS) evaluation module and Evaluation Findings Explorer.
- Perform other duties as required by supervisors.
- Update repositories of evaluation reports on the OHCHR intranet and website, as well as the UNEG website.
- Assist with the revision and maintenance of the database and mailing list of evaluation consultants.
Requirements
- Be enrolled in, or have completed, a second university degree, equivalent or higher; or
- Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent).
- Previous work experience is not required.
- A field of study closely related to Evaluation and/or Human Rights issues is considered an advantage.
- Strong English drafting ability.
- Graphic design skills.
- Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship.
- The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. Fluency in Arabic, Spanish or French , both oral and written, is highly desirable.
How to Apply
Job Code: 284967
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to apply for a Human Rights Affairs Intern position with the UN in Zimbabwe?
Most UN human rights internships require completion of a university degree in law, political science, international relations, or a related field. Some positions accept candidates in their final year of study. Proficiency in English is essential, and knowledge of local languages like Shona or Ndebele is often advantageous.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Human Rights Affairs Intern?
Interns typically conduct research on human rights violations, draft reports and briefing notes, assist with case documentation, and support field monitoring activities. You may also help organize workshops, liaise with civil society organizations, and contribute to data analysis. Administrative tasks and note-taking during meetings are also common.
How does the work culture differ in UN offices in Zimbabwe compared to local NGOs?
UN offices in Zimbabwe follow international bureaucratic standards with formal hierarchies, strict deadlines, and extensive documentation requirements. Punctuality and protocol are highly valued, and decisions often require multiple levels of approval. Unlike smaller local NGOs, you will work within a multicultural team with diverse international and national staff.
What career progression opportunities exist after completing this internship?
Successful interns may transition to consultancy roles, junior professional officer positions, or national staff roles within the UN system. Experience here strengthens applications for master's programs in human rights law or international development. Many former interns also secure positions with Zimbabwean human rights organizations or regional bodies like the African Commission.
What benefits are typically provided to UN interns in Zimbabwe?
UN internships are generally unpaid, though some programs offer modest stipends to cover local transportation and lunch costs. Interns do not receive medical aid, pension, or leave benefits as these are reserved for staff contracts. You should budget for personal health insurance and accommodation in Harare, which can be costly.
How should I prepare my application to stand out for this role?
Tailor your cover letter to demonstrate knowledge of Zimbabwe's human rights challenges, such as land rights, freedom of expression, or electoral issues. Highlight any volunteer work with local organizations like ZLHR or ZPP, and ensure your CV reflects strong research and writing skills. Submit early through the UN Careers portal, as competition for these nine positions will be intense.
