Governance and Membership Intern

About the role

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN‑Habitat) is seeking a Governance and Membership Intern to support the Global Water Operators’ Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA). The internship offers a dynamic learning environment focused on water and sanitation operators worldwide, especially in low‑income urban settings.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with GWOPA’s membership campaign, including vetting applications, processing new members and managing the membership database.
• Map membership gaps, identify potential new members and support outreach activities.
• Draft and review communications, advocacy material and surveys on member needs and feedback.
• Liaise with national and regional utilities associations, follow up on agreements and work‑plans for Water Operator Partnerships (WOPs).
• Contribute to the operationalisation of GWOPA’s governance framework, including drafting guidance material and supporting steering committee and general assembly processes.
• Support electronic voting organisation for the steering committee and other governance‑related communication efforts.

Required profile

• Current university student or recent graduate in public policy, international development, environmental studies or a related field.
• Strong interest in urban water and sanitation issues and the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural, virtual environment.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hands‑on experience with a UN‑mandated programme and an international network of water operators.
• Exposure to governance, partnership building and capacity‑development processes.
• Mentorship from senior GWOPA staff and the Officer‑in‑Charge.