My studies from these modules really sparked my interest in gender equality and I gained a real passion for it as a result. Alongside my academics, I got more involved in politics and in the same year I started my degree, the Irish government decided to hold a referendum on the 8
th amendment of the Irish constitution, the amendment which made abortion illegal in Ireland. I joined to be a part of the Repeal the 8
th movement and the
Together for Yes campaign in order to legalize abortion in Ireland. After tireless campaigning from the Together for Yes campaign, in 2018, abortion was finally made legal in Ireland. That year was a pivotal moment in my life where I found a new sense of passion for women’s rights and gender equality, which I continue to have today.
Gender Team: Why did you choose to apply to the internship with the UNOV/UNODC Gender Team?
When I first saw the advertisement for the internship with the UNOV/UNODC Gender Team I was instantly intrigued as it peaked my two biggest interests, gender equality and the United Nations. Immediately, I was interested in gaining experience with a team that deals solely with gender mainstreaming and promoting awareness of gender aspects in UNOV and UNODC’s mandated areas. Although I must admit, at first, I did not know a lot about the work of UNODC but after looking more into the organization and its mandated areas, I realized how broad the full scope of work is. I was also drawn into the roles listed in the job description, such as research, event coordination and communications. These were skills that I wanted to develop more of.
Gender Team: What were the main highlights and challenges for you throughout this internship?
Two of the main highlights for me during this internship have been, firstly, working with a team who are all as equally passionate about gender equality as I am. It has been an enlightening experience working with a team of people who are supportive, and all want to work towards the one goal. Another highlight of my internship was that I enjoyed supporting the team with arranging the events and conducting the trainings done by the Gender Team. These events and trainings were both something that I had learnt from and enjoyed organizing. One of my most memorable events was the
Vienna Discussion Forum 2021 which I was able to attend ‘in-person’ at the Vienna Headquarters.
Of course, there were some challenges. The main one for me was that I did my internship remotely which means I missed out on the ‘in-person experience’, but financially and due to COVID-19, it was the best decision. However, I did travel to Vienna for a week in November.
Gender Team: Would you recommend this internship to others?
If you are someone who is interested in gender equality and women’s empowerment, learning about how the United Nations functions, particularly the UNODC, and want to work with an amazing team, then I couldn’t recommend applying for an internship with the UNOV/UNODC Gender Team more. Overall, this internship has given me some great insights. I have learnt more about how gender mainstreaming can be practically applied within an organization, developed a new range of skills, and had great experiences working with different people from within UNODC, other UN organizations, member state delegates and staff from UNODC Field Offices. I have learnt a lot from all experiences gained with the team and will take them with me in my future career.
For employment, internships, and volunteer opportunities, please visit the UNODC employment page. This page is updated regularly and contains all the positions currently available at UNODC.