Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination (LISD) Internship at UN Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict

Call for Applications

Princeton University students are invited to apply to join the United Nations Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (SRSG CAAC) as unpaid interns this academic year to conduct collaborative research on child reintegration. The internship will familiarize students with some of the institutions and processes of the United Nations and provide first-hand experience with cutting-edge policy research. Strong mentorship support will be provided to all interns. 

SRSG CAAC serves as the leading UN advocate for the protection and well-being of children affected by armed conflict. The role of the Special Representative is to strengthen the protection of children affected by armed conflict, raise awareness, promote the collection of information about the plight of children affected by war and foster international cooperation to improve their protection. The current Special Representative is H.E. Virginia Gamba.

The Reintegration Research Group was established in 2021 as a formal and globally representative group of academics and scholars who work on this issue and will lead research and provide recommendations. Given the complexity of reintegration, the expertise solicited will cover a wide range of issues, including social, political, and economic reintegration, mental and physical health, security, peacebuilding, child engagement, justice and human rights, amongst other issues.

The five Working Groups are led by different experts and cover the following topics:

1.     Reintegration, resilience, and prevention of re-recruitment

2.     Physical and mental recovery

3.     Gender approach and inclusiveness

4.     Justice, human rights and accountability

5.     Meaningful engagement of children and youth in transitions

The Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination and the UN Office of SRSG CAAC have cosponsored convenings and scholarship on matters of joint interest for many years. This past summer, the Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination sent five interns to the CAAC Office to produce research for five Working Papers corresponding to the Working Group topics. The first of these Working Papers will be launched at the UN in early 2024.

Academic-year internships at the CAAC office are unpaid and may last one or both semesters of 2023-2024. Excellent writing skills and relevant experiences in policy and research will be considered preferably. If interested, please send your CV and cover letter, indicating your preferred Working Group(s) and your availability, to [email protected] by October 6, 2023.