The American Pakistan Foundation (APF) is pleased to announce the call for applications for the APF United Nations 2025 Fellowship. This prestigious fellowship is designed to give exposure to students to the inner workings of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and empower themselves to advocate for and explore social and economic issues surrounding the Pakistani-American diaspora.
About the Fellowship Program
In June 2019, APF achieved Special Consultative Status with the United Nations ECOSOC. This recognition empowers APF to engage the international community on vital policies and initiatives concerning Pakistan and Pakistani Americans. Through our United Nations Initiative, APF actively participates in civil society dialogues, advocates for policy changes, and strives to make a lasting impact on the global stage.
The APF UN Fellowship is a six-month fellowship program that aims to give selected fellows a chance to understand APF’s role within ECOSOC and provides a chance to champion social and economic causes, delving deeper into the significance and implications of issues that affect our diaspora. Fellows will have the opportunity to attend in-person and virtual UN conferences, submit written statements to the United Nations, publish reports, receive mentorship, engage in thoughtful discussions, and establish lasting connections.
Key Deliverables and Expectations by Fellows
Collective written statements on all UN events that APF is invited to participate in. These are ad-hoc opportunities that arise throughout the fellowship.
A research paper on select topics with guidance from APF mentors.
Organizing a virtual roundtable conference with experts invited from the US and Pakistan.
A final 5,000-word report on key findings, concept maps, and recommendations incorporating takeaways from the roundtable and research on the annual theme for 2025: “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for leaving no one behind.” This will be the final product of the fellowship and will be written collaboratively by all fellows.
Fellows will be required to present at the annual 2025 APF Fellows Presentation (virtual) in September 2024 showcasing key learnings and takeaways with other interns and fellows.
This is a part-time fellowship requiring 5-7 hours per week and bi-weekly check-in meetings (or as required).
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should be in their junior or senior year of undergraduate, or be graduate students pursuing a degree in a relevant field such as public policy, international relations, political science, economics, law, or a related discipline.
Residents of New York City or Washington D.C area are preferred as fellows will be expected to attend the UN Women CSW in-person in March 2024 and will not be reimbursed for travel/living expenses.
Demonstrated interest or work experience in policy field, including internships, research assistantships, or employment in government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or related sectors.
Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills, as fellows are expected to conduct in-depth analysis and contribute valuable insights to policy discussions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as fellows may need to write reports, policy briefs, or articles and present their findings to various audiences.
Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to take initiative, as fellows are often expected to drive their research projects and contribute actively to the organization’s mission.
Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including experts, policymakers, and community members.
A commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in policy work, and an understanding of how different perspectives and backgrounds enrich policy discussions.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a complete application including:
A resume/CV detailing relevant experience and education.
A statement of interest outlining their interest in the fellowship and how their background aligns with the program’s goals.
A writing sample no longer than three pages.
Please submit applications and the required documentation to by 11:59 PM EST, December 30, 2024.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
Note: Incomplete applications will NOT be considered.
Important Dates
➔ Application Deadline: December 30, 2024.
➔ Interview Period: January 6 - January 17, 2025.
➔ Fellowship Start Date: February 1, 2025
Benefits
● Exposure: Fellows gain insights into ECOSOC workings, access high-level UN meetings, and raise their voices on pertinent issues.
● Stipend: A $500 stipend contingent upon timely submissions of the final report and roundtable attendance.
● Publication: Reports authored by fellows will be published on both the APF website and the United Nations ECOSOC portal.
● Letter of Experience: Fellows will receive a letter signed by the Program Manager and Chairman of the Board, aiding in their career development.
● Acceptance into APF Leadership Council/NextGen: APF fellows are offered automatic acceptance into the NextGen or Leadership Council cohorts (depending on age).
● Access to a distinguished network of APF UN Fellows: Fellows join previous cohorts of APF UN fellows to develop a network of young professionals from diverse backgrounds and shared interests.
Join us in shaping the future of Pakistan's global presence. Apply to become an APF UN Fellow and be a catalyst for change. Together, we can make a difference on the international stage.
For inquiries, please contact Maha Butt at un@americanpakistan.org.
We look forward to receiving your applications and welcoming a cohort of talented fellows who will contribute to a constructive dialogue regarding pertinent social and economic issues that affect our diaspora.