Apply for the Fully Funded UN IGF Fellowship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. Gain hands-on experience in Internet governance, digital policy, global development, and multilateral cooperation through this prestigious United Nations fellowship programme.
Overview
Applications are now open for the Fully Funded UN IGF Fellowship 2026, a prestigious United Nations opportunity designed for professionals interested in Internet governance, digital policy, technology regulation, and international development.
The fellowship is administered through the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) under the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and provides participants with the opportunity to work directly with the IGF Secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland.
This fully funded programme supports skilled professionals from developing countries by providing practical experience in global digital governance processes while strengthening their professional knowledge, policy expertise, and international networks.
Successful fellows will contribute to research, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and preparations for major United Nations Internet governance initiatives.
About the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)
Internet Governance Forum was established by the United Nations Secretary-General in 2006 as a global platform for dialogue on Internet governance and digital policy issues.
The forum operates under the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs and brings together governments, civil society organizations, private-sector stakeholders, technical communities, and academia to discuss public policy issues related to the Internet and digital technologies.
About the Fellowship Programme
The IGF Fellowship Programme forms part of the United Nations’ efforts to strengthen Internet governance capacity in developing countries.
The programme aims to:
- Enhance professional expertise in Internet governance
- Build digital policy capacity
- Strengthen multistakeholder cooperation
- Support participation from developing countries
- Promote knowledge exchange and international collaboration
Selected fellows are integrated into the daily work of the IGF Secretariat and gain direct exposure to the United Nations system and global digital governance processes.
Fellowship Benefits
Fully Funded Opportunity
The programme is financed through:
- The IGF Trust Fund
- United Nations DESA support mechanisms
Participants receive fellowship support in accordance with United Nations fellowship policies.
International Exposure
Fellows work directly within the United Nations system and engage with:
- Governments
- International organizations
- Civil society groups
- Academic institutions
- Technical communities
- Private-sector stakeholders
Professional Development
Participants gain practical experience in:
- Digital governance
- International policy development
- Multilateral cooperation
- Research and analysis
- Stakeholder engagement
- Programme implementation
Global Networking
The fellowship provides opportunities to build relationships with experts and policymakers working on digital and technology issues worldwide.
Fellowship Location
The fellowship is based in:
Geneva
Selected fellows will work with the IGF Secretariat at the United Nations Office in Geneva.
Programme Duration
The proposed fellowship period is:
Six Months
The 2026 fellowship cycle is expected to run between:
May 2026 and November 2026
The programme may also operate through additional six-month cycles depending on organizational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Head of the IGF Secretariat, fellows will contribute to a wide range of activities.
Research and Policy Analysis
Fellows will:
- Conduct research on Internet governance issues
- Analyze digital development challenges
- Prepare policy papers
- Develop analytical reports
- Support evidence-based decision-making
Programme Implementation
Responsibilities include:
- Supporting IGF initiatives
- Assisting with stakeholder engagement
- Coordinating programme activities
- Contributing to project implementation
Annual IGF Meeting Preparation
Participants will help:
- Support agenda development
- Assist the Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG)
- Contribute to meeting preparations
- Support organizational processes
Stakeholder Engagement
The fellowship involves interaction with:
- Government representatives
- International organizations
- NGOs
- Technical experts
- Business leaders
- Academic institutions
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the fellowship, participants are expected to:
Understand Internet Governance Systems
Develop advanced knowledge of:
- Global Internet governance frameworks
- Digital cooperation mechanisms
- Technology policy processes
Strengthen Policy Skills
Gain experience in:
- Policy analysis
- Research methodologies
- Report writing
- Position paper development
Learn Multilateral Cooperation
Understand:
- United Nations processes
- International negotiations
- Multistakeholder governance models
Build Professional Networks
Develop long-term professional relationships within the global Internet governance community.
Eligibility Requirements
Educational Qualifications
Applicants must possess:
- A university degree in ICT
OR
- A university degree in international affairs with strong emphasis on:
- Technology policy
- Telecommunications
- Internet governance
- Digital development
Professional Experience
Candidates must have:
- A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience
Relevant experience includes:
- Internet governance
- Digital policy
- ICT policy
- Telecommunications regulation
- Technology governance
Experience in policymaking is considered an advantage.
Language Requirements
Required
- Fluency in English (written and spoken)
Desirable
- Working knowledge of French
Knowledge of additional languages is an asset.
Required Skills
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
Research Skills
- Independent research abilities
- Policy analysis capabilities
- Analytical thinking
Communication Skills
- Strong writing skills
- Professional communication
- Stakeholder engagement experience
Technical Knowledge
- Understanding of Internet governance
- Knowledge of digital policy issues
- Familiarity with technology-related development challenges
Interpersonal Skills
- Ability to work in multicultural environments
- Team collaboration
- Relationship management
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is ideal for:
- ICT professionals
- Digital policy specialists
- Telecommunications experts
- Technology governance practitioners
- International affairs professionals
- Researchers
- Policy analysts
- Development professionals
Applicants from developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and transitional economies are particularly encouraged to apply.
Application Documents
Interested candidates must submit:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A detailed CV outlining relevant qualifications and experience.
Motivation Letter
A letter explaining:
- Interest in the fellowship
- Relevant expertise
- Career objectives
Nomination Form
A completed fellowship nomination form as required by the programme.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit all required documents according to the instructions provided by the IGF Secretariat.
Applications are reviewed in consultation with regional and national Internet Governance Forum coordinators.
Application Deadline
31 March 2026
Candidates are encouraged to submit complete applications before the deadline.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | UN IGF Fellowship 2026 |
| Organization | Internet Governance Forum (IGF) |
| Administered By | UN DESA |
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Education | ICT or International Affairs Degree |
| Experience | Minimum 2 Years |
| Language | English Required |
| Deadline | 31 March 2026 |
Conclusion
The Fully Funded UN IGF Fellowship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for professionals interested in digital governance, Internet policy, and international cooperation to gain direct experience within the United Nations system.
By working alongside global experts and contributing to international digital governance initiatives, fellows will develop valuable skills, expand their professional networks, and strengthen their ability to support digital development efforts within their own countries and regions.
Professionals with relevant qualifications and experience are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this prestigious United Nations fellowship opportunity.
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