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 also organizes global Telecom events bringing together the most influential representatives of government and the private sector to exchange ideas and knowledge for the benefit of all.
Unpaid Internship - Communications Intern
Vacancy notice no: 2108
Sector: TSB
Department: SPD
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva
Position number: [[positionNumber]]
Grade: [[PositionGrade]]
Type of contract: Internship
Duration of contract: 6 months (starting January 2026)
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 30 October 2025
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (TSB) fulfills the objectives of the Union relating to telecommunication standardization, by providing secretariat support to groups studying technical, operating and tariff questions and facilitating the adoption of Recommendations in these areas with a view to standardizing telecommunications and information technology on a global basis. In order to achieve these objectives, the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau works in accordance with the instructions of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assemblies (WTSA), Telecommunication Standardization Study Groups and the Telecommunication Standardization Advisory Group. TSB, headed by an elected Director, provides the technical, administrative and logistic support for the assemblies and for the meetings of the groups mentioned.
Within the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (TSB), the Study Groups and Policy Department (SPD) is responsible for the development of standards, international numbering resources, bridging the standardization gap, and policies guiding ITU-T and the maintenance of its relevant position in the global standardization arena. It oversees the implementation of the WTSA Action Plan, and is responsible for identifying emerging technologies and analysing technology trends in order to advise membership on emerging standardization developments. The Department is also responsible for the Bureau's human resources and finance.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Under the supervision of the Counsellor of the ITU-T SG20, the Communications Intern will:
- Provide communications support on activities related to smart sustainable cities and AI-powered virtual worlds.
- Write engaging social media posts, ensuring regular social media updates.
- Assist with drafting the Digital Transformation and Cities Digest.
- Create digital, mobile first content, including taking photos and videos.
- Develop content for the website, contributing and ensuring the visibility of virtual events, digital campaigns, and key activities on activities related to smart sustainable cities and AI-powered virtual worlds.
- Participate in maintaining, proofreading and updating website pages (training will be provided).
- Conduct research and data analysis, including, conducting research on trends, best practices, and relevant topics to support the development of communication strategies.
- Support with event coordination, assisting the organization of ITU events related to Digital Transformation for People-Centred Cities and AI-powered virtual worlds.
- Draft editorial and other relevant promotional content of Digital Transformation for People-Centred Cities and AI-powered virtual worlds related events.
COMPETENCIES
Applying Expertise; Effective Communication; Learning and Knowledge Sharing; Organizational Commitment; Results-Focused, and; Teamwork and Collaboration.
QUALIFICATION REQUIRED
Education: University degree in areas related to Information and Communication Technologies, as well as Economy, Business administration, International Relations or International Development Studies, Public Policy, Social Policy, Communications and/or related subjects.
Experience: No work experience is required.
Language: Advanced level of English. Knowledge of French and/or Spanish is an advantage.
REMENURATION INFORMATION
Unpaid internship.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The intern will acquire excellent knowledge and experience of:
- Wordpress
- Recommendation ITU-T A.1, ITU-T Working Methods and other Mechanisms
- Ad hoc training offered to ITU staff
Learning will be structured and will take place through participation in ITU meetings and/or workshops, by studying ITU reports, surveys, studies or activities related processes, by mentoring/coaching/on-the-job training.
The post holder will be attached to a direct supervisor who will provide learning opportunities by the following means:
- Participating and contributing to the development of international standards through ITU-T SG20.
- Participating and contributing to the work of U4SSC.
- Participating and contributing to the work of the Global initiative on Virtual Worlds and AI.
The intern will be offered the possibility to work in a multi-cultural and dynamic environment and will participate in ITU-T’s activities in the area of AI-powered virtual worlds, IoT and Smart Sustainable Cities.
The intern will be under the supervision of the Counsellor of ITU-T SG20, and the guidance of the ITU Focal Point on Smart Sustainable Cities and virtual worlds. The internship will be within normal ITU core working hours except during meetings and assemblies when the incumbent may be required to work alternative hours and/or outside ITU headquarters.
Please note that a non-remunerated Internship position at ITU does not carry the same conditions of employment as a short-term or a fixed-term position. Mandatory Medical Insurance, travel expenses, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or sponsoring institutions.
This internship position does require the candidate to be physically present with the opportunity to work from home 2 days per week.
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 career 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.
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.
