Current vacancies
UN internships
UN-system internships are short-term assignments (typically two to six months) open to students and recent graduates. Each UN agency runs its own intake; UNlockit aggregates every currently-open internship vacancy across the system and links you back to the official posting. Most internships are unpaid, but some agencies offer stipends or subsistence allowances — always check the agency's posting for the latest terms.
- Open roles
- 331
- Organisations
- 63
- Last refreshed
- 7/22/2026
Latest open roles
Call for Expression of Interest – Internship Programme for FAO headquarters (HQ)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations · 🇮🇹 Italy
FAO invites expressions of interest for its Internship Programme at headquarters in Rome, Italy. This opportunity targets talented young women and men enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programmes, or recent graduates, who wish to supplement their academic knowledge with practical work experience. Interns will be assigned to various fields relevant to FAO's mission, such as agriculture, food security, and sustainable development, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The role involves performing functions specified in Terms of Reference under the supervision of an assigned manager. The programme aims to foster innovation and new perspectives within FAO's domains, supporting the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. Interns receive a monthly stipend unless sponsored by their university. The posting emphasizes diversity, encouraging applications from qualified females, nationals of under-represented members, and candidates from specific developing country categories. It also highlights FAO's zero-tolerance policy for misconduct and requires adherence to high standards of integrity and professional conduct.
Closes 8/25/2026Call for Expression of Interest – Internship Programme for Africa (RAF)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations · Various Locations
FAO invites expressions of interest for its Internship Programme in Africa, offering a learning opportunity for talented young women and men to supplement academic knowledge with practical work assignments. Interns will contribute to FAO’s mission of defeating hunger and achieving food security by supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda. The role involves performing functions specified in Terms of Reference prepared by the hiring office, with technical focus areas assigned based on the candidate's profile and organizational needs. The programme seeks candidates enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programmes in fields relevant to FAO’s mission, or recent graduates. Interns will work in an international multicultural environment, requiring adaptability and good communication skills. The internship duration ranges from 3 to 11 months, with assignments available in various locations across Africa. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend if not sponsored by their university. The role emphasizes FAO’s core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Candidates must adhere to FAO’s values of commitment, respect, and integrity. The programme encourages applications from qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented Members, and candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries, Least Developed Countries, Land-locked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States. This is a fixed-term opportunity designed to provide professional development and exposure to FAO’s strategic framework.
Closes 8/25/2026Call for Expression of Interest – Internship Programme for Europe and Central Asia (REU)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations · Various Locations
FAO invites expressions of interest for its Internship Programme in Europe and Central Asia, offering placements ranging from 3 to 11 months across various locations. This role targets talented young individuals enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programmes, or recent graduates, who wish to supplement their academic knowledge with practical work experience. Interns will be assigned to diverse fields relevant to FAO’s mission, such as agriculture, food security, and sustainable development, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The position requires candidates to specialize in a field relevant to FAO’s work and possess working knowledge of at least one FAO official language. The programme aims to foster innovation and new perspectives within FAO’s strategic framework, supporting efficient, inclusive, and resilient agri-food systems. Interns report to an assigned supervisor and perform functions specified in Terms of Reference. The role is open to nationals of FAO Member Nations aged between 21 and 30. FAO encourages applications from qualified females, nationals of under-represented members, and candidates from specific developing country categories. Selected candidates receive a monthly stipend if not sponsored by their university. The internship provides a learning opportunity to engage with FAO’s domains while adhering to high standards of integrity and professional conduct.
Closes 8/25/2026Call for Expression of Interest – Internship Programme for Latin America and the Caribbean (RLC)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations · Various Locations
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is seeking candidates for an Internship Programme in Latin America and the Caribbean (RLC). This opportunity is designed for talented young women and men enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programmes, or recent graduates, who wish to supplement their academic knowledge with practical work experience. Interns will be assigned to various fields of work relevant to FAO's mission, such as agriculture, food security, and sustainable development, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The role involves performing functions specified in Terms of Reference under the supervision of an assigned manager. The programme aims to foster innovation and new perspectives within FAO's domains, supporting the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. Interns are expected to adhere to FAO's core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, and communication. The internship duration ranges from 3 to 11 months, with a monthly stipend provided if not sponsored. Candidates must be nationals of FAO Member States, aged between 21 and 30, and possess working knowledge of at least one FAO official language. The position offers a learning environment in an international multicultural setting, with assignments available in various locations within the region.
Closes 8/25/2026Call for Expression of Interest – Internship Programme for Asia and the Pacific (RAP)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations · Various Locations
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is seeking candidates for an Internship Programme in the Asia and the Pacific region. This opportunity is designed for talented young women and men who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme or are recent graduates. The internship provides a learning opportunity to supplement academic knowledge with practical work assignments in fields relevant to FAO's mission, such as agriculture, food security, and sustainable development. Interns will contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. The role involves performing functions specified in Terms of Reference prepared by the hiring office, with tasks varying based on the candidate's profile and organizational needs. Interns report to an assigned supervisor and are expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment. The programme aims to attract individuals with innovative ideas and recent academic experience to support the 2030 Agenda. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend if not sponsored by their university. The internship duration ranges from 3 to 11 months, with various locations available within the region. FAO encourages applications from qualified female applicants, nationals of under-represented members, and candidates from specific developing country categories.
Closes 8/25/2026Call for Expression of Interest – Internship Programme for Near East and North Africa (RNE)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations · Various Locations
FAO invites expressions of interest for its Internship Programme in the Near East and North Africa (RNE) region. This opportunity targets talented young women and men, aged 21-30, who are currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programmes or are recent graduates. Interns will supplement their academic knowledge with practical work assignments in fields relevant to FAO’s mission, such as agriculture, food security, and sustainable development. The role involves performing functions specified in Terms of Reference under the supervision of an assigned manager. Interns contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO’s Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. The programme offers a learning opportunity to share new perspectives and innovative ideas. Candidates must be nationals of FAO Member States and possess working knowledge of at least one FAO official language. The internship duration ranges from 3 to 11 months, with various locations available. Selected candidates receive a monthly stipend if not sponsored. The role requires adaptability to multicultural environments and strong communication skills. FAO emphasizes diversity, integrity, and zero tolerance for misconduct. Applications are processed through the FAO recruitment portal, requiring a motivation letter and proof of enrollment or qualifications.
Closes 8/25/2026Intern-Communication
International Organization for Migration · 🇨🇱 Santiago, Chile
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is seeking an Intern-Communication to support its Mission in Chile. This role focuses on designing information, education, and communication materials related to migrant protection and rights, as well as managing digital content for the website and social media channels. Key responsibilities include capturing and editing photos and videos, implementing and monitoring digital communication campaigns, coordinating with vendors for translations, and supporting community outreach and event coverage. The intern will contribute to developing content that promotes safe migration and aligns with IOM’s communication objectives. The position offers training in international cooperation and organizational management, along with access to online courses. The ideal candidate is a student in their final year of a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or a recent graduate, with an interest in communication, social media, and migration issues. They must possess skills in digital content creation, graphic design, photography, and video editing, along with proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office. Fluency in both English and Spanish is mandatory. The internship provides a stipend and occupational accident coverage, requiring candidates to be between 20 and 36 years old with less than two years of relevant work experience.
Closes 7/31/2026Stagiaire (Medias & Communications)
International Organization for Migration · 🇸🇳 Dakar, Senegal
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is seeking a Stagiaire (Intern) in Media & Communications to support the Regional Office in Dakar. This role focuses on creating engaging multimedia content, including photography, video editing, and digital storytelling, to promote IOM’s work on migration in West and Central Africa. The intern will assist in managing editorial calendars, optimizing content for various social media platforms, and ensuring consistency with IOM’s brand standards. Responsibilities include drafting web articles, social media posts, newsletters, and briefing notes, as well as supporting the collection and organization of communication assets from country offices. The ideal candidate is a student in their final year of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in communication, journalism, digital media, or a related field, or a recent graduate within the last 12 months. The position requires fluency in French and working knowledge of English, along with strong writing, editing, and organizational skills. Familiarity with social media platforms, basic design tools, and content management systems is advantageous. The intern will work under the supervision of senior media officers, contributing to regional communication campaigns and fostering cross-cultural collaboration. This internship offers a stipend and is open to candidates aged 20-36 with less than two years of relevant work experience.
Closes 8/5/2026Public Information Intern
Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) · 🇨🇭 Geneva, Switzerland
The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) is seeking a Public Information Intern to support the Executive Office in clarifying the fate of missing persons in Syria and supporting victims. Located in Geneva, this full-time, in-person internship (3-6 months) involves drafting and publishing social media content, creating visual/multimedia materials, and managing communication archives under the supervision of a Public Information Officer. The role requires professionalism, discretion, and a commitment to UN principles. The ideal candidate is currently enrolled in or has completed a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree, with a field of study related to the internship. While professional experience is not required, familiarity with social media management and digital content creation is desirable. Fluency in English is mandatory, with Arabic knowledge preferred. Interns are unpaid and responsible for their own travel and living expenses.
Closes 7/29/2026Intern (Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling)
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime · 🇦🇹 Vienna, Austria
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is seeking interns for the Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Section (HTMSS) in Vienna, Austria. This unpaid, full-time position offers a six-month duration with flexible in-person or remote work options. The intern will provide substantive, organizational, and logistical support to teams focused on technical cooperation, normative and policy work, knowledge development, and partnerships. Key responsibilities include conducting background research on country situations and legal frameworks related to human trafficking and migrant smuggling, assisting in the planning and monitoring of technical assistance projects, and supporting capacity-building workshops. The role involves collecting and analyzing case law, managing information on UNODC platforms, and contributing to the preparation of official submissions, briefing notes, and communication materials. Interns may also assist in organizing intergovernmental meetings and liaising with UN offices and Member States. The ideal candidate is currently enrolled in or has completed a graduate or final-year bachelor's program in criminology, law, political science, social sciences, psychology, or international relations. They must possess strong analytical and drafting skills, proficiency in MS Office, and a demonstrated commitment to UN ideals. Fluency in English is mandatory, with knowledge of another UN language being advantageous.
Closes 8/5/2026Intern: Support to the UNCT on Youth Engagement, Volunteerism and Advocacy
Resident Coordinator System · 🇲🇰 Skopje, North Macedonia
This internship supports the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Skopje by advancing youth engagement, volunteerism, and advocacy, with a specific focus on the Future Makers Programme. The intern will coordinate programme activities, facilitate communication between participants, mentors, and stakeholders, and assist in organizing workshops, campaigns, and events. Key responsibilities include developing communication materials, managing stakeholder databases, drafting reports, and supporting outreach to youth organizations and civil society. The role requires strong organizational, communication, and networking skills, along with proficiency in standard software applications. The ideal candidate is a current student in the final year of a bachelor's, master's, or PhD programme, or a recent graduate, with a field of study related to youth development, social sciences, or international relations. Previous involvement in youth initiatives or volunteering is desirable but not mandatory. The position is unpaid, in-person, and requires fluency in English, with knowledge of Macedonian and Albanian being an asset.
Closes 8/6/2026Political Intern
Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs-Department of Peace Operations-Shared Structure · 🇺🇸 New York, United States
This is an unpaid, full-time (35 hours/week) or part-time (20 hours/week) internship within the Europe and Central Asia Division (ECAD) of the shared Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations (DPPA-DPO) at UN Headquarters in New York. The intern will support the Eastern Europe team, which covers 12 countries and three regional organizations, and backstops liaison offices in Kyiv and Vienna. Key responsibilities include monitoring media and political/security developments, conducting background research and analysis, reporting on UN Security Council and General Assembly meetings, preparing summary notes and briefing materials for senior officials, and providing logistical assistance for meetings. The role is designed for students in the final year of a first university degree (Bachelor's) or those enrolled in/completed a graduate programme (Master's/PhD). A field of study closely related to the internship is required. Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory; knowledge of another UN language is advantageous. The internship is flexible regarding start date (desired Oct 5, 2026) and work arrangement (hybrid, all remote, or in-person), though it is primarily based in New York. Applicants must not have previously served six months as a UN intern.
Closes 8/6/2026Programme Support – Public Policy Intern
United Nations Environment Programme · 🇨🇦 Montreal, Canada
This is an unpaid, three-month internship at the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD), administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Montreal or remotely. The intern will support the Joint Liaison Group of the Rio Conventions by conducting research and analysis on national policy instruments (such as NBSAPs and NDCs) and recent COP decisions to identify synergies across environmental conventions. Key responsibilities include preparing analytical summaries, briefing notes, and comparative matrices; assisting in drafting inputs for reports and technical papers; and supporting the organization of workshops and side events. The role requires advanced university degree studies in environmental policy, international law, or related fields, along with computer literacy and a demonstrated interest in UN ideals. While professional work experience is not required, the field of study must be closely related to the internship. Fluency in English is mandatory, with knowledge of other UN languages desirable. The intern is not financially remunerated, and costs for travel, visas, and accommodation are the responsibility of the intern or their sponsoring institution.
Closes 8/6/2026Anti-Racism Intern
United Nations Human Settlements Programme · 🇰🇪 Nairobi, Kenya
This is a six-month, unpaid, full-time internship within the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi, Kenya. The role supports the Anti-Racism Advocates in implementing the organization's anti-racism strategy and responding to the UN Secretary-General’s call to address racism within the UN system. The intern will assist with research and analysis of UN policies on discrimination, interpret strategic action plans, and draft policy documents such as briefing papers and reports. Responsibilities also include servicing training events and meetings, maintaining resource libraries, and supporting the design and administration of surveys on racism and discrimination. The ideal candidate is currently enrolled in a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree, or has already graduated with a relevant degree. They should have a keen interest in the UN's work, demonstrated tolerance for diverse cultural backgrounds, and strong analytical and communication skills. While professional experience is not required, a field of study related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), communications, or social sciences is preferred. Fluency in English is mandatory, with knowledge of another UN language being desirable.
Closes 8/6/2026Intern - Sustainable Finance Mobilization
United Nations Environment Programme · 🇹🇭 Bangkok, Thailand
This internship at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok supports sustainable finance mobilization. The intern will assist in redirecting public finance toward climate, nature, and pollution actions by researching investment trends, supporting engagement with Finance Ministries, and analyzing nature impact risks. Responsibilities include creating databases of central bank contacts, researching global nature taxonomies, and organizing webinars. The role seeks candidates enrolled in or recently graduated from graduate or final-year undergraduate programs in Finance, Climate Change Financing, or related fields. While professional experience is not required, prior exposure to climate finance is advantageous. Skills in standard software, drafting communications, and designing surveys are desirable. Fluency in English is mandatory. The position is unpaid for six months, with costs borne by the intern or sponsoring institution.
Closes 8/7/2026Intern - Observatory
United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction · 🇨🇭 Geneva, Switzerland
This is an unpaid, full-time, in-person internship within the Intergovernmental Processes, Interagency Cooperation and Partnerships Branch of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) in Geneva. The role supports the Global Observatory on DRR Financing by analyzing national disaster risk reduction financing systems. Key responsibilities include collecting and organizing data on DRR financing, utilizing tools like Microsoft CoPilot and Power BI for data visualization, and developing communication materials such as infographics, videos, and presentations to raise awareness. The intern will also draft analytical notes, background briefs, and report sections, while providing ad hoc support for meetings, workshops, and knowledge exchange activities. The ideal candidate is a current student in the final year of a bachelor's, master's, or PhD program, or a recent graduate, with a field of study closely related to the internship. Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is required, along with fluency in English. Knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset. The position offers practical experience in disaster risk reduction policy and communication but requires the intern to cover all associated living and travel expenses independently.
Closes 8/8/2026INTERN Sri Lanka accountability project
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights · 🇨🇭 Geneva, Switzerland
This is a six-month, non-remunerated full-time internship within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), specifically supporting the Sri Lanka Accountability Project (OSLap) based in Geneva. The role focuses on human rights monitoring, documentation, and analysis related to accountability frameworks and international crimes in Sri Lanka. Key responsibilities include reviewing and cataloguing information, maintaining documentation repositories, analyzing datasets for statistical outputs and visualizations, and supporting information management systems. The intern will conduct desk-based research on national and international accountability frameworks, with a focus on enforced disappearances, and synthesize best practices from UN entities, NGOs, and academic sources. Additional duties involve supporting the planning and coordination of meetings and events. The ideal candidate is a student currently enrolled in or having completed their final year of a first-level university degree, or enrolled in a graduate programme, with a background in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or records management. The role requires strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to interact respectfully with diverse cultural backgrounds. Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Tamil or Sinhala is advantageous. No professional work experience is required.
Closes 1/21/2027Intern
United Nations Development Programme · 🇱🇦 Vientiane, Laos
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Lao PDR is seeking a Communication and Reporting Intern to support the Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) portfolio within the Inclusive Growth Unit. This role focuses on the strategic framework 'Safe Path Forward III' (2021–2030), which aims to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 18 by keeping lives safe from UXO. The intern will assist with sector analysis, project support, research, and communication tasks. Key responsibilities include supporting the implementation of UXO activities, engaging with government counterparts and donors, and contributing to concept notes and proposals for funding. The role also involves drafting progress reports, briefing notes, and policy documents, as well as developing communication materials such as presentations, data visualizations, case studies, and social media content to promote UNDP’s work. Additionally, the intern will provide administrative support, including logistics, scheduling, and maintaining records. The position offers practical experience in development programming, donor reporting, and knowledge management, aligned with Lao PDR’s National Socio-Economic Development Plan. The ideal candidate is currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, enrolled in a Master’s program, or graduated within the last year from a relevant field such as Journalism, Mass Communication, or Development Studies. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and excellent English communication skills are essential. This is an unpaid internship requiring the intern to cover their own expenses, visa, and accommodation.
Closes 7/28/2026Political Affairs Intern
Office for Disarmament Affairs · 🇳🇵 Kathmandu, Nepal
The Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) is seeking a Political Affairs Intern to support the Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD) based in Kathmandu, Nepal. The internship, lasting 2-6 months with a desired start in September 2026, offers unpaid, full-time, in-person work, though hybrid arrangements may be approved at the hiring manager's discretion. The intern will assist in key programmatic areas including Weapons of Mass Destruction, Conventional Arms, Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, Education, and cross-cutting issues like Gender and Youth. Responsibilities include drafting official documents, conducting legal and internet research, supporting conferences and workshops, and maintaining web content. The role is designed for students or recent graduates in relevant fields, providing substantive support to regional peace and security goals without requiring prior professional experience.
Closes 8/4/2026Associate Interpreter (Temporary Job Opening), P2
Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan · 🇦🇹 Vienna, Austria
The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan (IIMA) is seeking an Associate Interpreter (P2) for a temporary position based in Vienna. The role involves providing consecutive and simultaneous interpretation between English and Dari/Pashto for high-level meetings, witness interviews, and legal proceedings related to international crimes and human rights violations. The incumbent will also contribute to data analysis and visualization for reporting purposes and perform translation duties when interpretation tasks are unavailable. The candidate must demonstrate professionalism, accuracy under stress, and strong communication skills. This is a limited-term appointment subject to mandate continuation and funding availability.
Closes 8/4/2026
Top organisations
- World Bank Group128
- Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe19
- UNESCO13
- Department of Global Communications11
- Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights11
- African Union Commission10
- United Nations Human Settlements Programme10
- United Nations Development Programme7
- United Nations Environment Programme7
- Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific6
Top countries
- United States87
- Austria30
- Switzerland26
- Ethiopia12
- Kenya11
- Thailand11
- Bulgaria9
- China8
- Kuwait6
- Germany4
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for UN internships?
Eligibility varies by agency. Common requirements: enrolment in or recent completion of a graduate or final-year undergraduate programme, fluency in one or more UN official languages, and the right to live and work in the duty station country.
Are UN internships paid?
Most UN internships are unpaid, though several agencies (UNICEF, UNDP, UNHCR, UNOPS) have moved toward stipends. Always check the specific agency's posting for the latest policy — UNlockit does not standardise compensation across listings.
How do I find UN internships matching my background?
Sign up for free and upload a CV — UNlockit's AI Match scores every internship against your profile so the highest-fit roles surface first.
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