Are you a passionate law student looking to build a career in international criminal law? The United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) is now accepting applications for its Legal Internship Programme at its Arusha, Tanzania office, starting September 1, 2025. This is your chance to work alongside legal experts, gain real-world experience, and contribute to the legacy of two of the world’s most significant international criminal tribunals—the ICTR and ICTY.
Internship Location:
Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania
Duration:
Six months (Starting 01 September 2025 – flexible start dates through March 2026
About the Internship
The legal internship is based in the Office of the Registrar (OR) at IRMCT’s Arusha branch. Interns will work under the supervision of the Internship Coordinator and other legal officers. This full-time internship offers exposure to the operational side of international justice, administrative law, and diplomatic policy.
Although the position is unpaid, the experience is unparalleled for students seeking a future in international criminal law, human rights, or diplomacy.
Key Responsibilities
Interns will assist with a wide range of legal and administrative duties, including:
- Conducting legal research in international law, criminal law, and administrative law
- Drafting legal documents, memos, and correspondence
- Reviewing and summarizing recent court filings
- Performing reference checks and compiling materials
- Assisting with archival processes and record transfers
- Supporting various Registry units, such as:
- Judicial Records Unit
- Witness Support and Protection Unit
- Mechanism Archives and Records Section
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet one of the following:
- Be in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree in Law, or
- Be currently enrolled in or have completed a graduate-level law program (Master’s or equivalent)
No prior work experience is required. However, applicants should demonstrate how their education and skills will benefit the Mechanism.
Other requirements:
- Strong computer literacy in standard applications
- Fluency in English (French is a plus)
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted through the United Nations Inspira Portal: https://careers.un.org, After applying via Inspira, applicants must email the following documents to internshipoffice@un.org:
- A cover letter (including your available start and end dates)
- Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Academic transcripts (including course list and grades)
- A writing sample relevant to International Criminal Law (max 10 pages)
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Additional Notes
- Interns must cover all personal expenses (travel, visa, accommodation, insurance, and living costs)
- Upon selection, interns must sign an Acceptance and Undertaking Form
- Strict confidentiality obligations apply
- Interns are not guaranteed future employment at the UN
The United Nations strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and ensures a diverse and inclusive environment.
No Application Fees
The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment or internship process. Be cautious of any requests for payment or personal banking details. Take your first step into international law and justice with this unique legal internship opportunity at IRMCT. Visit the official internship programme page for detailed guidelines.
