Internships with the United Nations (UN) offer students and recent graduates a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in international relations, development, and public policy. These programs are designed to expose individuals to the inner workings of the UN and its specialized agencies, providing a platform to contribute to meaningful work and build a professional network.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for a UN internship, applicants must meet specific academic criteria. In most cases, candidates need to be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree or enrolled in a graduate program. Some agencies, like UNICEF, also accept recent graduates who have completed their studies within the last two years, while UN Women extends this to those who can begin the internship within two years of graduation.
Proficiency in one of the UN’s working languages is a crucial requirement. English and French are most commonly needed, with some organizations accepting other languages like Spanish. Additionally, applicants must have a strong academic record and cannot have an immediate family member working for the UN Secretariat or in a direct line of authority within the office they are applying to.
Duration and Financial Considerations
UN internships typically last between two and six months, although some programs, such as traineeships with UNITAR, can extend for up to 12 months. Interns are generally expected to work full-time.
A significant point to consider is that the majority of UN internships are unpaid. Interns are responsible for their own travel, housing, living expenses, medical insurance, and visa costs. While some entities, like UN Women and UNITAR, may offer a stipend to help with basic expenses, prospective interns should be prepared to be financially self-sufficient. It is also a good idea to check with your university to see if you can receive academic credit for the internship.
Application and Selection Process
The primary portal for UN internship applications is the United Nations Careers Portal (careers.un.org). Many opportunities are posted on this centralized platform. However, it’s also worth checking the individual employment pages of specialized agencies like UNICEF, UNDP, and UN Women, as they often post unique openings.
The application process typically involves creating a “personal history profile” and submitting a cover letter. You may also need to provide proof of enrollment or a certified copy of your degree. Given the high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates are usually contacted. The selection process can include an initial review of applications, shortlisting, and, in some cases, a phone or video interview.
Diverse Opportunities Across the UN System
The UN system is vast, and various entities offer internships in a wide range of fields. Some examples include:
- UN Secretariat: Offers general internships for exposure to the daily operations of the UN.
- UNICEF: Focuses on programs related to children’s rights, with opportunities in external relations and policy. Notably, UNICEF has been revising its policy to include paid internships.
- UNDP: Offers internships in various areas related to world development, available at headquarters, regional hubs, and country offices.
- UN Women: Provides opportunities in strategic partnerships, advocacy, and communications, with a specific focus on gender equality.
- UNITAR: Offers traineeships designed to provide practical work experience to complement academic studies.
Since requirements and procedures can vary greatly between different UN entities, it’s essential to research each organization thoroughly before applying.
You can learn more about how to get an internship at the UN by visiting www.un.org/en/academic-impact/page/internships
