UNCTAD Fully Remote Economic Affairs Research Internships 2026 – Apply Now

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Economic Affairs Research Internships, open to graduate and final-year students worldwide. The internship offers remote participation, mentorship, and real-world policy research experience.

Overview

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has announced its 2026 Economic Affairs Research Internships, providing students and recent graduates with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international trade, economic development, and sustainable policy research.

This internship can be completed remotely or in-person at the UNCTAD headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and runs from January 5 to April 4, 2026. Interns will work with UNCTAD’s Productive Capacities and Sustainable Development Branch (PCSD) under the Division for Africa, Least Developed Countries, and Special Programmes (ALDC).

The programme offers full-time (40 hours per week) participation, professional mentorship, and exposure to UN research and policy frameworks.

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About UNCTAD

Established in 1964, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a permanent intergovernmental body of the United Nations Secretariat. It promotes inclusive and sustainable development through trade, investment, finance, and technology.

UNCTAD’s mission is to help developing countries integrate into the global economy on equitable terms. Its work covers a wide range of policy areas, including:

• Trade and investment policy
• Sustainable development and climate resilience
• Digital transformation and e-commerce
• Productive capacity development
• Economic diversification and innovation in emerging economies

About the Economic Affairs Research Internships

The UNCTAD Economic Affairs Internship provides practical experience in research, analysis, and policy development, with a specific focus on productive capacities and sustainable growth in developing economies.

Interns will assist UNCTAD’s experts in:

• Strengthening national productive capacities
• Analyzing blue economy and agricultural value chains
• Designing holistic economic development programmes
• Developing policy recommendations for Africa, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and other target regions

This internship is ideal for students seeking UN experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to international development policy work.

Key Details

Roles and Responsibilities

Under the supervision of a Programme Management Officer and the Head of PCSD, interns will:

• Support the design and implementation of technical assistance projects to enhance productive capacities in developing countries.
• Assist in developing national productive capacity assessment reports and value chain analyses.
• Research and summarize data related to agricultural and blue economy strategies in Africa and Southern regions.
• Contribute to country-level and global economic policy reports.
• Support the preparation of project proposals and studies related to development economics.

Training and Supervision

All interns receive structured training and mentoring throughout their placement. Supervisors provide continuous feedback, ensuring professional and academic growth aligned with the intern’s field of study.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet at least one of the following academic requirements at the time of application:

• Be enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree or equivalent), or
• Be enrolled in the final year of a bachelor’s degree programme, or
• Have recently graduated (within one year).

Additional Requirements:

• Field of study: Economics, Development Studies, Political Science, International Relations, Law, or Social Sciences.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office 365.
• Demonstrated interest in the United Nations’ mission and global development.
• Ability to work in multicultural and remote environments.

Languages:

• English: Fluent (written and spoken)
• French or Portuguese: Advantageous

IT and Remote Work Requirements

For remote participation, applicants must have:

• A modern computer capable of running Office 365 applications
• Stable internet access and updated software
• Basic cybersecurity measures, including:
  • Updated operating system (Windows recommended)
  • Enabled software firewall
  • Password protection and secure login protocols

Assessment and Selection Process

1. Online Application: Submit via the official UN careers portal.
2. Screening: Applications are reviewed for eligibility and suitability.
3. Interview or Written Test: Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an online interview or test.
4. Selection: Successful candidates receive an internship offer and agreement.

Application Materials:

Applicants must include:

• Cover Letter, detailing:
  • Degree title and expected or actual graduation date
  • Relevant IT and research skills
  • Why you are an ideal candidate for this internship
• Personal History Profile (PHP) in the UN Careers system, including:
  • Education history
  • Relevant experience (if any)
  • Language skills
  • Three (3) references

Important Notes

• The internship is unpaid. Travel, visa, and living expenses must be covered by the intern or their institution.
• There is no expectation of employment after completion. Interns cannot apply for professional-level UN positions for six months following the internship.
• Family members of UN staff are not eligible to apply.
• The UN does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process.

Key Benefits

• Work experience with a UN Secretariat organization
• Exposure to international economic development policies
• Mentorship from senior UNCTAD economists and policy experts
• Opportunity to contribute to real UN research and reports
• Flexible remote work options
• Strengthened profile for future UN and international organization opportunities

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the United Nations Careers Portal:

👉 Apply via UN Careers: UNCTAD Internship 2026

Application Deadline: November 17, 2025
Internship Start Date: January 5, 2026

Ensure your application is complete before submission, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

APPLY NOW

For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the internship paid?
No. UNCTAD internships are unpaid, but participants gain valuable experience and references for future international roles.

2. Can I work remotely?
Yes. The 2026 internship allows fully remote participation if your technical setup meets UNCTAD’s IT security standards.

3. Who can apply?
Students and recent graduates in economics, law, development, or related social sciences fields.

4. Do I need work experience?
No prior professional experience is required, though relevant coursework or research background is beneficial.

5. What’s the working schedule?
Full-time (40 hours/week), typically aligned with UNCTAD’s office hours.

6. Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Upon completion, interns receive a UNCTAD internship certificate recognizing their contribution.

Summary

Final Thoughts

The UNCTAD Economic Affairs Research Internship 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity to contribute to the United Nations’ global development agenda while enhancing your academic and professional profile. With flexible remote participation, this internship is ideal for students aspiring to build a career in international economics, development policy, or sustainable trade.

Apply early to secure your spot in one of the UN’s most respected internship programs and gain the experience that shapes future global leaders.

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