On Thursday, 23 December 2024, the Department of Law hosted an enriching career talk, Exploring Legal Career in the United Nations. The session, facilitated by Mr. Mahdy Hassan, Program Officer at the UNODC Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa, provided an inspiring exploration of the legal career paths available within the United Nations system. Approximately 250 students attended the event, which was organized by a team led by Mrs. Tasnuva Anika, Lecturer, Department of Law, with the dedicated support of two other faculties Mr. Muzahidul Islam and Rawna Miraj Ul Azam.
The speaker, Mr. Mahdy Hassan, drawing on his extensive experience in the UN, captivated the audience with an in-depth discussion about the diverse roles lawyers play within the organization. He began by outlining the structure of the United Nations, emphasizing the interconnected roles of its various agencies and their reliance on legal expertise to uphold international law, human rights, and justice. He detailed the multiple entry points into the UN system, such as internships, consultancies, and the competitive Young Professionals Programme (YPP). He also elaborated on the qualifications and skills needed to succeed, including a solid academic background in law, specialization in international law or related fields, and fluency in multiple languages. His candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of working in such a dynamic and multicultural environment offered students a realistic perspective on the demands of international legal careers.
The session transitioned into a lively Q&A segment where students posed thoughtful questions. Many sought advice on breaking into the UN as law graduates from developing countries, while others inquired about strategies for gaining relevant experience and internships. Mr. Hassan’s responses were practical and encouraging, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, networking, and aligning one’s academic and professional pursuits with the UN’s core values and mission.
At the end of the session Prof. Dr. Syeda Afroza Zerin, Head of the Department of Law expressed thanks and gratitude to the organizers and AIUB management for their unwavering support.
The career talk was an inspiring and informative experience that left students motivated to explore legal careers within the United Nations. Mr. Mahdy Hassan’s expert guidance and the well-organized nature of the event highlighted the Department of Law’s commitment to preparing its students for global professional challenges. Events like these not only broaden students' horizons but also empower them to pursue impactful careers on the international stage.
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