How to Work in International Consulting: An Experience Report from a UNESCO Consultant

The Brazilian public administration provides a plethora of opportunities for international consultants through vacancies in prestigious global institutions such as UNESCO, UN Women, and UNICEF, among others. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the opportunities available to lawyers and law graduates to work as international consultants, drawing on the author’s experience at UNESCO. Often, these opportunities remain unexplored due to a general unawareness among professionals. Hence, this article endeavours to share a novel experience and act as a guide for those interested in pursuing a career in international consultancy. To conduct this research, descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the calls for applications published in 2023 by 12 global institutions. This analysis identified the demands and professional qualifications sought for consultancy positions. The findings indicated a notable demand for legal professionals with specializations or experience in international law, human rights, environmental law, public management, and public policies. Furthermore, English emerged as the most commonly required language, with French, Spanish, and Portuguese also being significant. The opportunities often featured flexibility regarding the professionals’ location, with many roles allowing for remote or hybrid work arrangements. The study further underscored the critical importance for professionals to develop technical-scientific skills and to view themselves as entrepreneurs to effectively operate within this international context.