The UNESCO Internship Program provides students and recent graduates with the opportunity to gain practical experience while contributing to international initiatives in science, technology, education, culture, sustainability, and social development.
Through placements across UNESCO Headquarters, field offices, and institutes, interns work in a multicultural environment while developing professional skills and supporting projects that promote international cooperation.
About the UNESCO Internship Program
UNESCO offers internship opportunities designed to help young professionals understand how international organizations operate while gaining hands-on experience in programme implementation, research, and policy development.
Internships are available across different areas, including:
- Science and innovation
- Environmental sustainability
- Technology and artificial intelligence
- Research and knowledge management
- Social inclusion and peacebuilding
- Public policy and governance
The UNESCO Sciences Sector focuses on using science, innovation, and international cooperation to address global environmental, social, and technological challenges.
Areas Covered by UNESCO Opportunities
Participants may contribute to initiatives related to:
Science, Technology and Innovation
Interns can support work involving:
- Scientific research
- Open Science
- STEM education
- Artificial Intelligence ethics
- Technology policy development
Environment and Sustainability
Projects may focus on:
- Climate action
- Water sustainability
- Biodiversity conservation
- Disaster risk reduction
- Sustainable development
Social Development and Peace
UNESCO initiatives also support:
- Human rights
- Social inclusion
- Intercultural dialogue
- Youth empowerment
- Global citizenship
Responsibilities of UNESCO Interns
Interns may support UNESCO teams by:
- Preparing project documents, technical reports, and policy briefs
- Conducting research and analysing qualitative and quantitative data
- Supporting evidence-based policy development
- Assisting communication and knowledge-sharing activities
- Supporting workshops, conferences, and international meetings
- Contributing to project planning, monitoring, and evaluation
Learning and Career Development Benefits
The UNESCO Internship Program helps participants develop valuable international career skills, including:
- Research and analytical abilities
- Policy writing skills
- International project management experience
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Stakeholder engagement experience
- Understanding of global policymaking processes
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet UNESCO’s internship requirements, including:
- Be at least 20 years old
- Be currently enrolled in the third year or final year of a Bachelor’s degree, or pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree
- Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree within the last 12 months before the internship agreement
Applicants should also have:
- Strong English or French language skills
- Good computer skills
- Ability to work in an international multicultural environment
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Internship Duration
UNESCO internships typically last between:
- Minimum duration: 1 month
- Maximum duration: 6 months
Financial Support and Benefits
UNESCO internships are unpaid opportunities. The organization does not provide financial compensation for internship assignments.
Interns receive:
- Leave entitlement during the internship period
- Limited workplace insurance coverage against eligible risks related to internship activities
Why Join UNESCO?
A UNESCO internship offers young professionals the opportunity to:
- Gain experience within a United Nations organization
- Work with international experts
- Develop global professional networks
- Understand international cooperation processes
- Contribute to projects supporting sustainable development and peace
How to Apply
Applicants apply to UNESCO internship vacancies that match their interests and expertise. Successful candidates become part of UNESCO’s internship candidate pool, where applications may be reviewed by hiring managers for available opportunities.
Candidates should prepare:
- Updated CV
- Academic documents
- Proof of enrollment or recent qualification
- Relevant experience and skills information
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