If you are a student or recent graduate seeking hands-on experience within the United Nations system, the UNESCO Internship at the Office of the Director-General offers a rare and prestigious opportunity to contribute directly to global policy discussions while developing essential professional and communication skills.
Based at UNESCO Headquarters, this internship places successful candidates at the heart of international decision-making and multilateral cooperation.
With an application deadline of 30 June 2026, this internship is open to external candidates from diverse academic backgrounds who share UNESCO’s core values of commitment, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism.
About UNESCO and the Office of the Director-General
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) plays a vital role in promoting peace and sustainable development through education, science, culture, social and human sciences, and communication and information.
The Office of the Director-General is a central pillar of the organization, coordinating strategic initiatives, high-level diplomacy, and communication across the UN system and with international partners.
Interns placed in this office gain first-hand exposure to how global policies are shaped, communicated, and implemented at the highest institutional level.
Internship Overview
- Duty Station: UNESCO Headquarters
- Contract Type: Internship
- Duration: 1 to 6 months
- Recruitment Open To: External candidates
- Application Deadline: 30 June 2026 (Midnight Paris Time)
This internship is designed to be a learning-by-doing experience, offering participants a deep understanding of UNESCO’s mandate, operations, and cooperation with other UN agencies and international institutions.
Key Functions of the Internship
Under the authority of the Cabinet Coordination Officer and the supervision of one of the Director-General’s Advisors, interns will assist in preparing files and materials related to UNESCO’s core areas of work. These include education, science, culture, social and human sciences, and communication.
Interns will also gain insight into:
- UNESCO’s internal working environment
- Multilateral processes within the United Nations system
- The organization’s contribution to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
- Cooperation with international and regional institutions
This position is particularly valuable for candidates interested in diplomacy, policy development, international communications, and global governance.
Tasks and Responsibilities
Throughout the internship, participants will contribute meaningfully to the work of the Office of the Director-General. Responsibilities may include:
- Assisting Advisors in preparing notes, briefs, and opinions on administrative, political, and communication-related issues
- Supporting research and documentation related to UNESCO’s fields of competence
- Contributing to communication materials and strategic messaging
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Speechwriting Pool (Pôle Langage)
Interns selected for the Speechwriting Pool will take on additional responsibilities, including:
- Drafting speeches, talking points, editorials, articles, messages, and forewords for the Director-General
- Conducting documentary research for official visits and high-level engagements
- Revising correspondence to be signed by the Director-General in both English and French
This role is particularly suited to candidates with strong writing, research, and analytical skills.
Learning Objectives and Professional Development
This internship is structured to provide comprehensive professional growth. By the end of the placement, interns will have:
- Developed an understanding of multilateral decision-making processes
- Gained insight into the design and implementation of communication and information projects
- Built experience in policy brief development, research, and data analysis
- Strengthened skills in writing, editing, and strategic communication
- Acquired knowledge of international project management through hands-on engagement
In addition to technical skills, interns will also enhance essential soft skills such as:
- Stakeholder management
- Problem-solving
- Interpersonal communication
- Teamwork and adaptability
Interns are also introduced to UNESCO’s Competency Framework, particularly in areas such as flexibility, client focus, teamwork, and effective communication.
Core Competencies Required
Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate the following core competencies:
- Accountability
- Communication
- Innovation
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
- Planning and organizing
- Results focus
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
These competencies reflect UNESCO’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and ethical conduct.
Eligibility and Required Qualifications
Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
Academic Qualifications
At the time of application, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in the third or final year of a Bachelor’s degree
- Be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme
- Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree within the last 12 months
Students in technical or vocational programmes must be in their final year or have graduated within the last 12 months.
Language Requirements
- Excellent written and spoken English or French is required
- Working knowledge of the second language is an asset and may be required for certain assignments
Technical and Personal Skills
- Strong computer and office software skills
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and international environment
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Team-oriented mindset and adaptability
Benefits and Entitlements
While UNESCO internships are unpaid, interns are entitled to:
- 2.5 days of leave per month, plus an additional day per complete month of internship
- Limited workplace insurance coverage for risks related directly to internship duties
Interns should ensure they have adequate financial resources to support themselves during the internship period.
Selection and Recruitment Process
Applicants should note that they are applying to join a pool of internship candidates, not a specific placement. Successful applications remain valid for six months, during which hiring managers may select candidates based on organizational needs.
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Key points to remember:
- Applications must be completed within one hour
- Only English or French may be used
- Contact details must remain valid for six months
- There is no guarantee of placement, even if eligibility requirements are met
- Only selected candidates will be contacted
UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment, fraud, and misconduct and is firmly committed to ethical recruitment practices.
Why Apply for This Internship?
This internship offers an exceptional opportunity to:
- Work directly within a senior leadership office at a UN agency
- Gain exposure to global policy formulation and diplomacy
- Develop high-level communication and research skills
- Build a strong foundation for a career in international organizations
For motivated students and graduates passionate about UNESCO’s mission, this internship is a powerful stepping stone into the world of international public service.
