Application Guide

How to Apply for Intern - Programme Management

at ESCAP - Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific

🏢 About ESCAP - Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific

ESCAP is the UN's regional development arm for Asia and the Pacific, uniquely positioned to influence sustainable development policies across 53 member states. Working here offers direct exposure to multilateral diplomacy and regional cooperation, with opportunities to contribute to tangible development outcomes that affect millions of people across diverse economies.

About This Role

This Programme Management Intern supports ESCAP's project implementation through administrative coordination, data organization, and communication assistance. The role is impactful because it directly enables ESCAP's mission by ensuring smooth project operations and amplifying outreach about sustainable development initiatives across the region.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve consolidating data from multiple sources for a regional development report, assisting with logistics for an upcoming expert group meeting, drafting social media posts about ESCAP initiatives, and preparing presentation materials for senior staff. You'll likely collaborate with international colleagues across different time zones while learning how UN programmes are implemented on the ground.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who ESCAP - Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific Is Looking For

  • A graduate student in international development, public administration, or related field with coursework in sustainable development
  • Demonstrated ability to organize and analyze data using Excel or similar tools, with attention to detail
  • Experience creating professional presentations and managing social media for organizations (not just personal use)
  • Strong intercultural communication skills and understanding of Asia-Pacific regional dynamics

📝 Tips for Applying to ESCAP - Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific

1

Highlight any experience with UN systems, sustainable development goals (SDGs), or Asia-Pacific regional issues in your resume

2

Mention specific software skills relevant to ESCAP's work: UN software platforms, data visualization tools, or presentation software beyond basic PowerPoint

3

Demonstrate understanding of ESCAP's mandate by referencing specific ESCAP publications or initiatives in your application

4

If you have language skills beyond English, emphasize them—ESCAP operates in a multilingual region

5

Show how your background connects to specific ESCAP focus areas like climate action, digital transformation, or regional connectivity

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your understanding of ESCAP's unique role as the UN's regional development arm for Asia and the Pacific", "Specific examples of how you've supported projects or organized data in academic or professional settings", "Why you're passionate about sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region specifically", "How your skills in presentation development and social media can advance ESCAP's outreach objectives"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → ESCAP's current work programme and recent publications related to China or your country of interest
  • → The specific ESCAP division or section you'd be working with (if mentioned in additional materials)
  • → UN competency framework and how ESCAP implements it in internship programmes
  • → Recent ESCAP events or initiatives that involved social media outreach

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with data consolidation and what methods you use to ensure accuracy
2 How would you approach creating social media content about a technical ESCAP report for general audiences?
3 What do you know about ESCAP's current flagship publications or ongoing initiatives in China?
4 Tell us about a time you supported multiple projects simultaneously and how you prioritized tasks
5 How do you stay informed about sustainable development trends in the Asia-Pacific region?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic applications that don't reference ESCAP's specific mandate or regional focus
  • Overemphasizing personal career goals without connecting them to ESCAP's development mission
  • Failing to demonstrate understanding of the UN's multilateral approach to development

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

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Good luck with your application to ESCAP - Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific!

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