The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the knowledge frontier organization for collective action to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP’s policy and programme work, carried out at HQ, Regional and Country Office (CO) levels, form a contiguous spectrum of deep, local knowledge to cutting edge global perspectives and advocacy.

The UNDP Tax for Sustainable Development Goals Initiative (Tax for SDGs) supports developing countries in increasing domestic resource mobilisation and achieving the SDGs. It is managed by the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS’s) Sustainable Finance Hub (SFH), with resource persons embedded in the SDG Finance Teams in Amman, Bangkok, Istanbul, Panama and Pretoria.

Taxes are the key funding source for investments in achieving the SDGs. Tax policy can influence desired behaviours and help attract additional investment. In addition, taxes are vital to fostering a stronger social contract between the citizens and the state. Tax for SDGs has a particular emphasis on linking tax administration and tax and fiscal policies with the broader SDGs. As one of its workstreams, Tax for SDGs supports the implementation of the joint OECD/UNDP Tax Inspectors Without Borders Initiative (TIWB). Further, building on UNDP CO portfolios and already existing engagements with Ministries, Tax for SDGs brings a stronger focus on the role of tax and fiscal policy in achieving the 2023 Agenda. The project places a particular focus on reducing gender and social inequalities in tax and fiscal policy as well as taking forward climate action and environmental goals, and health outcomes. Representing the views of developing countries in the global normative tax discussions is critical and to this effect Tax for SDGs also works to bring evidence and perspectives from developing countries into the regional and international discussions on taxation. For more information please refer to the Initiative’s event page: www.taxforsdgs.org/about.

Under the rules and regulations of the UNDP Internship policy, UNDP Tax for SDGs offers multiple internships in UNDP Headquarters in New York; these can relate to global coordination, regional work, selected thematic areas, and communications.

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Supporting ongoing and upcoming program work related to Tax and the SDGs at the global level and with different world regions and countries;
• Assisting the Tax for SDGs team with the preparation, running, and follow-up of meetings;
• Supporting the development of briefs and talking points for key events and meetings;
• Supporting monitoring and evaluation, digital program management, and drafting of presentations and reports;
• Conducting research, helping in compiling data, and conducting data analysis;
• Attending, supporting organization, and summarizing meetings, conferences, and side events to strengthen strategic engagement with partners both within and outside the UN system.

Technical / Functional Competencies:

•   Good understanding of the 2030 Agenda and Financing for Development.

•   Good understanding of tax/fiscal policy, tax administration processes, public finance reforms, and management.

•   Ability to draft clearly and concisely, good writing skills;

•   Analytical aptitude, communication, and presentation skills;

•   Ability to work flexibly, and innovatively and meet tight deadlines;

•   Good organizational, time management, and interpersonal skills;

•   Attention to detail and ability to work independently and effectively.

Personal Competencies:

•   Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards;

•   Demonstrates openness to change and ability to receive/ integrate feedback;

•   Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from different national and cultural backgrounds to achieve organizational goals;

•   Establishes, builds, and sustains effective relationships within the work unit and with internal and external partners and supports team efforts;

•   Positive and results-oriented attitude.

Education

• Currently enrolled in (a) a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) as a full-time student in taxation, economics, finance, law, political science, public policy, and other related fields or; (b) have graduated with a university degree (as defined above) and, if selected, must commence the internship within one year of graduation.

Area of Interest/Experience

Although applicants are not required to have work experience, relevant knowledge/experience will be a strong asset.

• A strong interest in the area of public finance/ fiscal policies/ taxation is required, which could be demonstrated by past work experience, education, or training;
• Proficiency in the use of software like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as digital collaboration and knowledge management tools;

Language

• Fluency in both written and spoken English Language is required.

Application Process

• Please upload your resume (not more than 2 pages), cover letter (one page), and transcripts as one PDF attachment. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Conditions

• All expenses connected with the internship will be borne by the intern, sponsoring government, or institutions;
• UNDP interns accrue leave at a rate of 1.5 days per month;
• During the internship period, interns are responsible for securing adequate medical insurance for the duration of their internship with the UNDP and must provide a medical certificate of good health before starting the internship. Any costs arising from accidents and illness incurred during an internship assignment will be the responsibility of the intern;
• The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment within the UN System, but to complement an intern’s studies. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment at the end of an internship.