UNDP Internship Opportunities: Launch Your Global Career with Real Impact . APPLY NOW

Position : Multiple Internship
Location : Various
Organization : UNDP
Application Deadline : 31 Oct 2025

Introduction

Are you passionate about global development and eager to make a difference? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) offers a wide range of internship opportunities across multiple locations worldwide. With internships spanning diverse fields such as climate change, governance, poverty reduction, and gender equality, these opportunities offer a unique chance to gain hands-on experience while contributing to some of the world’s most pressing issues.

UNDP internships provide a platform for students and young professionals to engage in real-world projects that tackle global challenges. The internships are not just a means to gain experience but are an opportunity to contribute directly to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Whether you’re based in New York, Geneva, Nairobi, or any of UNDP’s field offices, the experience you gain will provide invaluable insight into international development, policy analysis, project management, and much more.

What is UNDP?

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the global development network of the United Nations. With a presence in over 170 countries, UNDP works to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and build resilient, sustainable societies. Its mission is to support countries in achieving the SDGs and improving the lives of people in need through the promotion of inclusive and sustainable development.

At the heart of UNDP’s work are its country-specific development projects, which focus on critical areas such as sustainable livelihoods, climate change, health, education, gender equality, democratic governance, and peacebuilding. UNDP leverages its expertise, partnerships, and global reach to help governments and institutions strengthen their capacity to address these challenges.

UNDP Internship Program Overview

The UNDP Internship Programme offers highly motivated individuals an opportunity to gain insight into the work of the United Nations and contribute to the advancement of its development goals. Interns at UNDP are placed in offices around the world, working directly with experts and professionals in their fields.

Internships typically last between 3 to 6 months and can be either paid or unpaid depending on the location and the specific office. These positions are open to current students and recent graduates from a variety of academic backgrounds. While the program is highly competitive, it offers incredible opportunities to develop skills, build a professional network, and gain exposure to international development in a practical and impactful setting.

Types of Internship Opportunities

UNDP offers a broad range of internships across multiple sectors. The most common areas of focus for internships include:

1. Climate Change and Environment:
   UNDP is at the forefront of global climate action, working to promote sustainable environmental practices, develop low-carbon economies, and implement solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Interns in this area might work on projects related to renewable energy, carbon markets, environmental conservation, or sustainable development policies.
2. Poverty Reduction and Inclusive Growth:
   Poverty alleviation is one of the core missions of UNDP. Interns in this field may assist in evaluating development programs, collecting data on poverty trends, and researching new approaches to inclusive economic growth and social inclusion. There is also a focus on marginalized populations, ensuring that no one is left behind.
3. Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment:
   Gender equality is a critical pillar of UNDP’s work. Interns may support projects that promote women’s rights, gender-sensitive policies, and economic empowerment programs. This can involve data analysis, community outreach, and policy advocacy to advance gender equality globally.
4. Democratic Governance and Peacebuilding:
   UNDP works closely with governments and civil society organizations to foster inclusive governance, rule of law, and peacebuilding in post-conflict countries. Interns may support electoral processes, policy development, and institutional capacity building, especially in fragile or conflict-affected areas.
5. Health and Human Development:
   In alignment with the SDGs, UNDP is involved in initiatives that promote universal access to health services, quality education, and human rights. Interns may be engaged in health program monitoring, research on social determinants of health, or assisting with the implementation of large-scale public health interventions.
6. Data and Policy Analysis:
   As the world becomes increasingly data-driven, UNDP emphasizes the role of evidence-based policy making. Interns in this domain may work with research teams to analyze data, generate reports, or support policy formulation, especially related to development issues, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
7. Communication and Outreach:
   UNDP’s communication efforts play a crucial role in raising awareness and mobilizing support for its projects. Interns in communication will assist with content creation, social media outreach, media relations, and public engagement to promote the work of UNDP and increase visibility for its programs.

Key Skills and Qualifications for UNDP Internships

To be eligible for an internship at UNDP, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Requirements: You should be enrolled in a degree program (Bachelor’s or Master’s) or be a recent graduate (usually within the last year) in a relevant field such as international relations, political science, economics, development studies, environmental science, or social sciences.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in additional UN languages such as French, Spanish, Arabic, or Chinese is an asset, particularly for roles in UNDP’s international offices.
• Research and Analytical Skills: Interns are expected to contribute to research and policy analysis, so strong analytical, quantitative, and qualitative research skills are important.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are a must, as interns will often be tasked with preparing reports, presenting findings, and interacting with stakeholders.
• Teamwork and Flexibility: UNDP places great emphasis on collaboration and teamwork. Interns should be adaptable, able to work independently when needed, and able to engage with diverse teams in a multi-cultural environment.

Application Process

The application process for UNDP internships is straightforward but competitive. Candidates must apply online via the UNDP careers portal, where they will need to submit:

• A CV/resume outlining relevant academic and professional experience.
• A cover letter demonstrating motivation for applying, interest in UNDP’s work, and how the internship aligns with personal career goals.
• A writing sample (if requested) that showcases research and writing abilities.
• Proof of enrollment in an academic program or recent graduation.

Interns are selected based on academic qualifications, relevant experience, language skills, and an alignment of interests with the work of UNDP. The recruitment process can be rigorous, so applicants should ensure their materials are tailored to the specific internship they are applying for.

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Locations of UNDP Internships

UNDP’s internship opportunities are available in a wide range of countries and regions. Some of the key locations where you can apply for internships include:

• Headquarters: New York (USA), Geneva (Switzerland), and Copenhagen (Denmark).
• Regional Offices: Africa (Nairobi), Asia and the Pacific (Bangkok), Latin America and the Caribbean (Panama), and the Arab States (Cairo).
• Field Offices: UNDP has a significant field presence in countries affected by conflict, poverty, and development challenges. Interns may be based in countries such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Colombia, working directly with local teams.

Benefits of the UNDP Internship Program

• International Experience: Interns gain exposure to the global development agenda and learn from experienced professionals in international development.
• Networking Opportunities: The internship provides opportunities to build a network with people working in the UN system, governments, NGOs, and the private sector.
• Skill Development: Interns gain a wide range of technical, analytical, and soft skills that will help in future career paths in international relations, development, policy, or research.
• Real Impact: The work you do as an intern will have tangible impacts, as UNDP projects are designed to improve lives and address critical global challenges.

Conclusion

UNDP internships offer a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable development, gain valuable international experience, and network with experts in the field of global development. These positions are ideal for students or recent graduates who want to make a meaningful impact while developing the skills necessary for a future career in international development, diplomacy, or policy. If you are passionate about helping to achieve the SDGs and tackling some of the world’s most challenging issues, a UNDP internship could be the perfect stepping stone for your career.

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