UN Internship Opportunities: A Global Gateway to Professional Growth and Impact . APPLY NOW

December 4, 2024Last Updated: December 4, 2024

5 minutes read

UN Internship Opportunities: A Global Gateway to Professional Growth and Impact . APPLY NOW

Position : Multiple Internship
Location : Various
Organization : UN
Application Deadline : Dec 2024 Update

Introduction

The United Nations (UN) offers a diverse range of internship opportunities across various fields and locations, providing students and recent graduates the chance to gain invaluable experience while contributing to the global mission of peace, development, human rights, and sustainability. Internships at the UN are highly sought after for their unique opportunities to work in a multinational environment, offering exposure to the workings of international diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, and environmental protection.

In this article, we will explore multiple internship roles available through the UN in different locations around the world. These internships provide a platform for future professionals to engage in meaningful work that can have a real impact on society. Whether you’re interested in human rights, sustainable development, or peacekeeping, there is likely an internship role at the UN that fits your career aspirations.

1. UN Internship Programs: A Global Network of Opportunities

The UN internship programs are offered by various specialized agencies, programs, and funds within the UN system, each with specific mandates and areas of focus. Some of the most popular UN entities offering internships include:

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
World Health Organization (WHO)
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
UN Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO)

Interns are assigned to specific departments within these entities, providing them with practical experience and a deep understanding of international development, conflict resolution, human rights, and humanitarian aid.

2. Key Requirements for UN Internships

While each UN internship program has its own set of criteria, there are several common requirements that applicants should be aware of:

Educational Background: Most internships at the UN require candidates to be enrolled in a degree program or have recently completed an undergraduate or graduate degree. A focus on international relations, political science, law, economics, public health, or environmental science can be advantageous.
Language Proficiency: English and French are the working languages of the UN, so proficiency in at least one of these languages is essential. Knowledge of additional languages such as Spanish, Arabic, Russian, or Chinese can provide an edge.
Commitment: Internships typically last between two to six months, and candidates should be prepared to commit to full-time work during this period. The opportunity to work in various regions around the world provides unique challenges, and applicants should be flexible and ready for international exposure.
Skills and Competencies: Strong communication, research, analytical, and teamwork skills are essential for interns at the UN. Interns should demonstrate their ability to work in diverse and fast-paced environments, often with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

3. UN Internship Roles: Exploring Specific Opportunities

The variety of roles available at the UN allows candidates to work in different sectors, such as development, human rights, health, and peacekeeping. Below are some of the key internship roles offered in different UN offices around the world:

a) UNDP Internships (Global)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, aiming to reduce poverty, improve governance, and promote sustainable development. Interns at UNDP are involved in research, data collection, and policy analysis. Specific roles include working in the fields of governance, gender equality, climate change, and disaster recovery.

Interns often assist with projects that align with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and engage in areas such as monitoring and evaluation, project implementation, and strategic planning. Locations for UNDP internships include New York, Bangkok, Nairobi, and Geneva.

b) UNHCR Internships (Various Global Locations)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) offers internships aimed at supporting the protection and assistance of refugees, displaced people, and stateless individuals. Interns working with UNHCR can expect to gain hands-on experience in humanitarian aid, advocacy, and international law.

Internships with UNHCR include roles in protection, logistics, and communications, and they are often based in field offices located in crisis zones like Jordan, Lebanon, Kenya, and Uganda. Interns will gain exposure to emergency operations, refugee camp management, and global policy discussions on asylum and migration.

c) WHO Internships (Geneva, Switzerland)

The World Health Organization (WHO) provides internship opportunities for students in public health, medicine, and related fields. Interns assist with research projects, health data analysis, and the development of health policies aimed at improving global health.

WHO interns may work on initiatives such as disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency health responses to crises. This program is based in Geneva, Switzerland, but interns can also have the opportunity to work in field locations depending on their assignment.

d) UNICEF Internships (Multiple Locations)

UNICEF is dedicated to ensuring the rights of children are upheld across the globe. Interns with UNICEF contribute to child protection, education, nutrition, and emergency relief efforts. The organization also works to address issues such as child poverty, violence, and exploitation.

Interns may support advocacy campaigns, conduct research, or help implement programs aimed at improving children’s lives. These positions are available in numerous global locations, including New York, Bangkok, Nairobi, and various countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

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e) UNEP Internships (Nairobi, Kenya and Geneva, Switzerland)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) offers internships for individuals passionate about environmental conservation and sustainable development. UNEP focuses on issues such as climate change, biodiversity, pollution, and environmental governance.

Interns at UNEP can work on global environmental initiatives, conduct research, and support policy dialogues aimed at achieving sustainability. Locations include UNEP’s headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, and its regional offices in Geneva, Switzerland.

f) UN Peacekeeping Internships (Various Field Locations)

The Department of Peace Operations (DPO) coordinates peacekeeping missions in conflict zones worldwide. Interns in this field support peacekeeping efforts, including conflict resolution, human rights monitoring, and political diplomacy.

Peacekeeping internships require a background in international relations, political science, or conflict studies. The roles may be based in New York, Addis Ababa, or regional field offices in countries like South Sudan, Lebanon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

4. How to Apply for UN Internships

The process for applying to UN internships can be competitive and rigorous, with multiple stages. Here’s a general overview of the application process:

Application Portal: Internships are typically posted on the UN Careers website or specific agency websites. Candidates need to create an account, upload their resume and a cover letter, and submit the required documents.
Application Deadlines: Each UN organization has its own set of deadlines. It’s essential to keep track of these dates and submit applications well in advance.
Selection Process: After the application submission, candidates will undergo a screening process based on their qualifications and experiences. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to complete an interview, either remotely or in person, depending on the location.
Internship Funding: While some UN internships are paid, many are unpaid, with interns receiving travel and living stipends. Funding varies depending on the specific agency and location.

5. Conclusion: Why You Should Apply for a UN Internship

Interning at the United Nations is an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international relations, humanitarian aid, and global development. The chance to work with professionals from all over the world, while contributing to the UN’s mission of promoting peace and human rights, is a rare and rewarding experience.

Whether you are seeking to make a difference in the world, gain exposure to international policies, or pursue a career in diplomacy or human rights, a UN internship can be a transformative experience. With locations across the globe, diverse roles, and the chance to engage in impactful projects, internships at the UN provide an invaluable stepping stone toward a successful and meaningful career in global affairs.