The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is offering a UNDRR Remote Programme Management Internship 2026 for 3–6 months. Open to Bachelor’s and Master’s students and recent graduates. Part-time, unpaid. Apply before 6 December 2025.
Overview
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has announced its 2026 remote Programme Management Partnerships Internship, hosted by the UNDRR Kobe Office in Japan. This internship provides an opportunity for early-career professionals, students, and recent graduates to gain hands-on exposure to global disaster risk reduction (DRR), resilient recovery frameworks, policy development, and international cooperation.
Although unpaid, the internship offers high-value experience with UN agencies, global DRR platforms, and stakeholder engagement related to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030.
This remote internship is open for part-time participation (approximately 20 hours per week), and applicants must submit their applications by 6 December 2025.
About UNDRR
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction serves as the UN system’s focal point for coordinating DRR efforts globally. Established in 1999, UNDRR guides and monitors the implementation of the Sendai Framework, working with governments, civil society, private sector actors, scientific institutions, and international organisations.
The UNDRR Kobe Office specifically supports global resilience initiatives, including the International Recovery Platform (IRP) and the Sendai Framework Voluntary Commitments (SFVC) system—two significant mechanisms for accelerating recovery, preparedness, and risk reduction worldwide.
Internship Responsibilities
Selected interns will work remotely and support programme management, research, communication, and coordination activities. Key duties include:
1. Policy Research and Written Outputs
- Draft analytical notes, background papers, meeting minutes, and presentations
- Prepare written content related to resilient recovery, recovery readiness, voluntary commitments, and DRR technologies
- Support preparation of talking points and report sections
2. Support to Events and Workshops
- Assist with virtual meeting coordination, logistics and planning
- Prepare concept notes, agendas, and speaker materials
- Support side events and consultations
3. Data and Information Analysis
- Review and systematize information on voluntary commitments
- Contribute to analysis of global DRR trends and recovery initiatives
- Support research linked to the implementation of the Sendai Framework
4. Content and Communications Support
- Update IRP and SFVC websites
- Assist with social media content, mailing lists, and outreach
- Support communication for major UNDRR events such as:
- International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
- World Tsunami Awareness Day
- Making Cities Resilient 2030 campaign
5. General Programme Support
- Provide administrative and coordination assistance
- Support stakeholder engagement and partner collaboration
- Assist with ad hoc tasks assigned by the Kobe Office
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Be enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s or higher)
- Be enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree
- Have recently completed a Bachelor’s or graduate programme
Additional requirements:
- Field of study must relate to programme management, development, disaster risk reduction, sustainability, international relations, public policy, or similar areas
- Ability to commit 2–3 days per week (approx. 20 hours)
- Fluency in English (required)
- Knowledge of another UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is an asset
- Strong writing, research, communication, and analytical skills
Benefits of the UNDRR Internship
Although the internship is unpaid, it offers several career-advancing advantages:
- Opportunity to work directly with a UN office and global DRR experts
- Hands-on experience with international policy analysis and project coordination
- Exposure to IRP, SFVC, and global recovery platforms
- Strengthened skills in research, communication, and stakeholder engagement
- Experience contributing to global resilience, climate adaptation, and DRR initiatives
- Strengthened portfolio for future UN or international development opportunities
This internship is especially beneficial for students aiming for careers in:
- United Nations and international organisations
- Disaster management and climate resilience
- Public policy and global governance
- Research, development, and humanitarian sectors
How to Apply
- Visit the official UN Careers Portal and search for Job Opening ID 266339.
- Click Apply Now and create a UN Inspira account (if you do not have one).
- Complete the application form, ensuring accurate academic and personal information.
- Upload required documents, including:
- Resume or CV
- Academic transcript or proof of enrolment
- Cover letter tailored to disaster risk reduction and programme management
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Application Deadline
6 December 2025
Late applications are not reviewed due to high competition.
Summary Table | UNDRR Remote Programme Management Internship 2026
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) |
| Duty Station | Remote (Kobe Office supervision) |
| Job Opening ID | 266339 |
| Programme | Programme Management Partnerships Internship |
| Duration | 3–6 months |
| Work Hours | Part-time, approx. 20 hrs/week |
| Compensation | Unpaid |
| Application Deadline | 6 December 2025 |
| Required Education | Final-year Bachelor’s or enrolled in/completed a graduate programme |
| Required Language | English |
| Additional Languages | Any UN language (asset) |
| Key Areas | DRR, recovery readiness, programme support, research, communications |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this internship paid?
No. UNDRR internships are unpaid.
2. Is the internship remote?
Yes. The internship is fully remote and supervised by the UNDRR Kobe Office.
3. What is the minimum weekly commitment?
Approximately 20 hours (2–3 working days).
4. Who is eligible to apply?
Bachelor’s final-year students, Master’s students, PhD students, and recent graduates.
5. Do I need previous UN experience?
No. However, strong research and analytical skills are essential.
6. Can international students apply?
Yes. The internship is open to applicants worldwide.
7. Do I need to speak Japanese?
No. Only English is required. Another UN language is an asset.
8. Will I receive a certificate?
Interns may receive a completion letter from the UN, depending on performance.
Conclusion
The UNDRR Remote Programme Management Internship is a valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates seeking real-world exposure to disaster risk reduction, recovery frameworks, and international policy work. With its focus on global resilience and the Sendai Framework, this internship provides a high-impact platform for gaining experience in one of the UN’s most important thematic areas.
Interested applicants should prepare a strong, targeted application and submit it before 6 December 2025 to maximise their chances of selection.
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
Related Opportunities on Reign Gigs
- UNDP 100% Remote Volunteer Assignments 2026 – Paid & Fully Funded
- Mercy Corps Global Fellowship 2026 – Fully Funded Training + Monthly Stipend
- UNICEF Remote Internship 2026 – Paid International Opportunities
- Global Fellowships & Skills Training Programs 2025