Background

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) works to strengthen parliamentary engagement in multilateral processes, including international trade (through the Committee on Parliamentary Cooperation with the WTO – PCWTO) and sustainable development (through the Parliamentary Conference on the 2030 Agenda – P20). These platforms bring together parliamentarians from around the world to exchange experiences, shape policy responses, and contribute to global governance.

To support the effective delivery of activities under both the PCWTO and P20 workstreams, the IPU is seeking an intern to assist with research, coordination, event preparation, and follow-up to the decisions of the PCWTO Steering Committee.

2. Objectives of the Internship

Under the supervision of the Programme Officer, Secretary of the PCWTO and P20, the intern will:

Gain exposure to parliamentary diplomacy, multilateral processes, and policymaking in the areas of trade, sustainable development, and the SDGs.
Support the smooth planning, organisation, and follow-up of PCWTO and P20 activities.
Contribute to research, documentation, and knowledge products that strengthen parliamentary engagement in the WTO and SDG processes.
3. Main Responsibilities and Tasks

Under the supervision of the Programme Officer, the intern will provide:

A. Research and Analysis

Conduct background research on trade-related parliamentary issues, WTO developments, and liaise with members parliaments on the implementation of the PCWTO recommendations.
Prepare briefing notes, fact sheets, and talking points for meetings and events.
Monitor and summarise relevant UN, WTO, and intergovernmental processes and outcomes.
B. Event and Meeting Support

Assist in the planning and organisation of PCWTO sessions, P20 meetings, side events, and related activities (in-person and virtual).
Coordinate logistical arrangements with internal and external stakeholders.
Prepare participant lists, background documents, and meeting reports.
C. Communication and Outreach

Support the preparation of content for the IPU website, newsletters, and social media related to PCWTO and P20.
Maintain contact databases and mailing lists.
D. Documentation and Follow-up

Draft summaries, minutes, and follow-up reports from events and meetings.
Assist in tracking implementation of recommendations and action points.
E. Administrative Support

Provide general administrative assistance to the programme team as needed.
Support budget monitoring for specific activities (in coordination with finance staff).
4. Learning Opportunities for the Intern

The intern will:

Gain direct exposure to multilateral diplomacy and parliamentary engagement in trade and sustainable development.
Build knowledge of the WTO system, SDG follow-up mechanisms, and inter-parliamentary cooperation.
Develop practical skills in event organisation, policy analysis, and communications.
Work in a multicultural, multilingual environment with colleagues from around the world.
5. Qualifications and Competencies

University degree (completed or in progress) in international relations, political science, law, economics, development studies, or related field.
Strong research and drafting skills in English; knowledge of French and/or Spanish is an asset.
Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work effectively in a team and adapt to a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with online meeting platforms (Zoom, Teams).

Please send your resume/CV