Discover the latest paid UN internships 2026. Learn how to qualify, what benefits are offered, how to apply, and how these internships can launch your career in diplomacy, global development, and international policy.
Overview: Paid UN Internships 2026
The United Nations offers a wide range of internship opportunities each year across its headquarters, regional offices, and specialized agencies. For 2026, several UN entities are offering paid internship placements, enabling students and recent graduates to gain practical experience in diplomacy, governance, development, humanitarian response, and global policy.
These internships provide exposure to high-level meetings, research, project implementation, international negotiations, and policy formulation. A UN internship remains one of the most competitive and impactful entry points for young professionals seeking careers in the UN system or the broader international development sector.
While internships under the UN Secretariat remain unpaid, many UN agencies — including UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNOPS, and UNHCR — now offer monthly stipends, making 2026 one of the most accessible years for aspiring UN professionals.
Why Consider a United Nations Internship?
A UN internship provides:
- First-hand experience with global policy processes
- Professional training from world-class experts
- Direct participation in high-level conferences and briefings
- Involvement in analytical, programmatic, and operational work
- Exposure to thematic areas including climate resilience, peacebuilding, humanitarian action, and economic development
Interns are embedded within functional teams, enabling them to contribute to real projects while gaining skills highly valued in the international job market.
Types of UN Internships in 2026
1. Paid Internships at UN Agencies
Several agencies provide monthly stipends, typically ranging from USD 800–1,300 depending on duty station:
- UNDP – stipend varies by location (≈ USD 1,000 in Copenhagen)
- UNICEF – competitive monthly stipend + lump-sum travel support in some roles
- UNFPA – provides monthly financial support
- UNOPS – stipend depending on duty station
- UNHCR – introduces paid internships through its global programme
2. Unpaid Internships at the UN Secretariat
Based primarily in:
- New York Headquarters
- Geneva
- Vienna
- Nairobi
Although unpaid, these positions offer unmatched exposure to UN diplomacy, global governance, and international negotiations.
Responsibilities of UN Interns
Depending on the department, interns may:
- Conduct policy research and draft analytical papers
- Support programme design and implementation
- Prepare briefings and reports for high-level officials
- Assist in organizing conferences, events, and intergovernmental meetings
- Contribute to strategic planning and communications
- Engage with partner governments, NGOs, and international organizations
The level of responsibility increases based on performance and team needs.
Eligibility Criteria for UN Internships 2026
Applicants must meet the following UN-wide internship standards:
Academic Requirements
- Enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme, or
- In the final year of a Bachelor’s programme, or
- Graduated within the past 12 months to one year (depending on agency)
Language Requirements
- Excellent command of English or French
- Knowledge of additional UN languages is an asset
Family Restrictions
- Applicants must not be the child or sibling of a UN Secretariat staff member
Availability
- Able to commit to 2–6 months
- Must start internship within one year of graduation
Benefits: What Paid UN Internships Offer
While benefits vary by agency, paid internships typically include:
Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend (USD 800–1,300 depending on duty station)
- One-time travel or visa allowance (UNICEF and some UNDP roles)
- Support for remote internships where applicable
Professional Benefits
- Access to UN-wide training and development platforms
- Exposure to global policy processes and intergovernmental negotiations
- Mentorship from UN staff and technical experts
- Career development pathways within the UN system
- Opportunities for networking at conferences and events
Paid internships significantly reduce entry barriers for candidates from low- and middle-income countries.
Important Considerations for Unpaid Secretariat Internships
Applicants to the UN Secretariat must prepare for:
- Self-funded travel and accommodation
- Self-funded health insurance during internship period
- Responsibility for visa and relocation costs
- Confidentiality requirements on all internal UN documents
Despite these limitations, Secretariat internships remain highly prestigious and can strongly enhance future UN employment prospects.
How to Apply for UN Internships 2026
Step 1: Identify Agencies Offering Paid Internships
Visit the official careers pages of:
All current vacancies are posted on each agency’s career portal.
Step 2: Create a Profile
Register an account on:
- UN Careers (inspira.un.org) for UN Secretariat positions
- Agency-specific portals for paid internships
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Most applications require:
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of enrolment or graduation
- Writing samples (for communications, policy, or research roles)
Step 4: Submit Applications Individually
Each internship has its own application link — applicants may apply to multiple roles across agencies.
Step 5: Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates are invited to:
- Video interviews
- Written tests
- Technical assessments (depending on agency)
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | UN Internships 2026 |
| Type | Paid & Unpaid (depending on UN entity) |
| Duration | 2–6 months |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s (final year), Master’s, PhD students, or recent graduates |
| Language | English or French required |
| Stipend | USD 800–1,300 (agency-dependent) |
| Locations | Global UN offices + remote options |
| Visa & Travel | Often covered for paid internships; self-funded for Secretariat roles |
| Application Method | Online via UN Careers or agency portals |
| Start | Rolling intake throughout 2026 |
Conclusion
The Paid UN Internships 2026 cycle offers exceptional opportunities for emerging professionals to earn while gaining world-class experience in international development, diplomacy, humanitarian affairs, and global governance. With multiple UN agencies now providing monthly stipends, access to the United Nations system has become more inclusive and globally competitive.
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