Job Description

IOM is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally, while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. Read more about IOM's workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration.

The Internship Programme aims at attracting talented students and graduates who have a specific interest in, or whose studies have covered, areas relevant to IOM programmes and activities. Interns must be between 20 and 36 years old and should have less than two years of relevant working experience. 

In general, the Internship Programme aims at attracting talented students and graduates who:

a) have a specific interest in, or whose studies have covered, areas relevant to IOM programmes and activities;

b) are holding a scholarship for internship placements in international organizations and/or for whom internship is required to complete their studies; or

c) are sponsored by governmental/non governmental institutions and/or academia to work in specific areas relevant to both IOM and the sponsor.

d) are either enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent) or have graduated in the last 12 months.

e) are between 20 and 36 years of age.

Background Information

Established in 1951, IOM is part of the United Nations system and the leading UN agency on migration, working with governments, international organizations, and civil society to promote humane and orderly migration. IOM provides services and advice to both migrants and governments. IOM has been present in Japan since 1981, initially supporting the onward movement of Indochinese refugees. Today, IOM Tokyo focuses on strengthening cooperation with Japan to support displaced persons, vulnerable migrants, and refugees worldwide, as well as assisting Japan in addressing its own migration challenges. IOM works with ministries and local partners on Japan Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (JPETS), resettlement, counter-trafficking (CT), return and reintegration (AVRR), labour mobility, and social inclusion. Under the supervision of the Chief of Mission and Programme Manager, the successful candidate will be based in Tokyo, supporting projects through research, assessment, stakeholder engagement, advocacy, case management, and field support.

Responsibilities

Internship Arrangement

Eight days per month

Learning Objectives

Working under the overall direction of the Public Information and Donor Relations Officer, the intern will assist with the partnership, advocacy and operational activities of the Mission. Tasks will include:

• Develop an understanding of current challenges and opportunities related to IOM’s work by supporting public information and communications activities, including gathering and analyzing qualitative data to help strategically position IOM in Japan.

• Strengthen knowledge and skills in strategic communications and partnership development by supporting communications initiatives, including public events and social media outreach.

• Undertake other tasks as may be assigned, in support of the Mission’s activities.

Training Components and Learning Elements

Briefing on IOM's work globally and in Japan

OJT to be exposed the work of a UN organization

Opportunities to attend internal and external meetings on relevant topics for the UN and IOM

Qualifications

Education

Undergraduate student (4th year or above) or graduate student

Experience

Applicants are not required to have professional work experience. However, the following competencies are required: 

• A good command of MS Office applications and Windows operational systems; 
• Knowledge in installing and configuring software and hardware;
• Knowledge in setup of computing equipment and access to LAN and Wireless LAN infrastructure;
• Creativity: takes an interest in new ideas and new ways of doing things; is not bound by current thinking or traditional approaches. 

Skills

• Willingness to learn and adapt to a fast-paced working environment. 
• Ability to communicate well in English and Japanese. 
• Proficient with Microsoft Office programmes, especially Word and Excel. 
• Interest in migration issues. 

Languages

English and Japanese are required (oral and written).

IOM’s official languages are English, French and Spanish.

Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Travel required

May be required

Required Competencies

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.

Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these three values:

• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
• Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
• Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
• Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

Core Competencies – behavioural indicators

• Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
• Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
• Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
• Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.