INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION
ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems.
ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.
Unpaid Internship - Staff Counselling Intern
Vacancy notice no: 2397
Sector: SG
Department: HRMD
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva
Position number: [[positionNumber]]
Grade: [[PositionGrade]]
Type of contract: Internship
Duration of contract: 6 months (starting 1 October 2026)
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 31 August 2026
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The General Secretariat directs administrative, human and financial resources and activities of the Union, including the implementation of the provisions of the administrative regulations on operational questions, the dissemination of information on telecommunication/ICT matters for operational and other purposes, and the provision of legal advice to the whole of the Union. The General Secretariat coordinates the implementation of the Strategic Plan, monitors the telecommunication/ICT environment and recommends as needed action relating to the Union’s future policies and strategy. The General Secretariat ensures inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation to advance a whole of ITU approach (One-ITU) in headquarters and the field. The General Secretariat provides logistical and information technology support to the Union’s activities including conferences and global forums; the coordination of the work of the Union with the United Nations system, and other international organizations; and the engagement of the Member States, Sector Members, and Academia. The General Secretariat manages corporate governance, and strategic communications and relations with the media, different stakeholder groups as well as the general public.
Within the General Secretariat, the Human Resources Management Department (HRMD) advises the Secretary General on human resources management. It manages ITU's resources ensuring consistency with ITU strategies, policies, regulations and rules as well as UN Common System policies. It efficiently manages the human capital of the Union; creates a stimulating and supportive work environment and encourages organizational creativity and performance measurement based on results.
Under the supervision of the Staff Counsellor, the intern will:
Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and other relevant IT programs/applications.
Excellent analytical, research and drafting skills.
Writes clearly and effectively.
Able to work autonomously.
High level of discretion and ability to handle confidential and sensitive material.
Education University degree in Mental health or workplace wellbeing (or similar).
Experience No work experience required.
Languages English at advanced level. Intermediate level of French would be desirable.
ITU Internship Requirements:
To be eligible for an internship at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), candidates must:
• Be under 30 years of age (Exceptions may be considered for candidates pursuing a Ph.D.).
• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate programme, or be a recent graduate(within six months prior to the start of the internship).
• Be a citizen of a Member State of ITU.
The intern will be attached to a direct supervisor who will provide learning opportunities by the following means:
Unpaid internship.
The internship can also be hybrid (to be discussed).
Please note that a non-remunerated internship at ITU does not carry the same conditions of employment as a short-term or fixed-term position. Medical insurance, travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or their sponsoring institution.
INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation for people and the planet with 194 Member States and a membership of over 1,000 companies, universities, civil society, and international and regional organizations.
Established in 1865, ITU coordinates the global use of the radio spectrum and satellite orbits, establishes international technology standards, drives universal connectivity and digital services, and is helping to make sure everyone benefits from sustainable digital transformation, including the most remote communities.
From artificial intelligence to quantum, from satellites and submarine cables to advanced mobile and wireless broadband networks, ITU is committed to connecting the world and beyond.
