UNESCO Internship Program 2025: Across its Headquarters, Field Offices, and Institutes Worldwide
Overview
UNESCO offers internship opportunities across its Headquarters, Field Offices, and Institutes worldwide. The internships are designed to provide valuable exposure to the operational environment of this United Nations specialized agency. Interns will work within a team from one of UNESCO’s Programme Sectors or Central Services (support functions), gaining insight into the organization’s work at various locations. The internship duration ranges from one to six months, with the possibility of extension, and is open to external candidates worldwide. The application deadline for this program is set for midnight Paris time on 31 December 2025.
Core Values
Throughout their internship, candidates are expected to uphold UNESCO’s core values, which include a strong commitment to the organization’s mission, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism.
Position Overview
An internship at UNESCO offers a unique opportunity for individuals to experience the daily working environment of an international organization committed to education, culture, science, and communication. Interns will be integrated into a team where they will engage with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, contributing meaningfully to organizational tasks and projects. Participants will have the chance to develop a broad spectrum of technical and professional skills within a multicultural setting.
Interns are assigned a variety of tasks that align with the needs of their respective teams and projects. The specific responsibilities and learning objectives are outlined in a Terms of Reference provided by the supervisor overseeing their placement.
Typical Tasks and Activities
Interns may undertake a range of activities, including but not limited to:
- Conducting research and preparing summaries of findings.
- Assisting in the development of substantive and communication materials such as reports, presentations, and official documents.
- Collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data to support project activities.
- Organizing and promoting events, conferences, or workshops, including logistical arrangements.
- Participating in meetings and workshops with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Contributing to the technical work of the team or sector, providing support where needed.
- Liaising with colleagues within UNESCO and other United Nations entities to facilitate collaboration.
- Supporting the implementation of specific projects with assigned tasks as required.
Learning Objectives
Interns are expected to enhance their skills across multiple areas, especially in line with UNESCO’s Competency Framework, which emphasizes:
- Accountability
- Effective communication
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Innovation and creative problem-solving
- Results-oriented approach
- Planning and organizational skills
- Sharing knowledge and striving for continuous improvement
These experiences aim to foster their professional growth and prepare them for future careers in international development, education, culture, or related fields.
Core Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in the following competencies:
- Accountability
- Communication
- Innovation
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
- Planning and organizing
- Results focus
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
For further details on these competencies, applicants are encouraged to review the UNESCO Competency Framework.
Qualifications and Eligibility
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Background: Candidates should be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or PhD) at the time of application or have graduated with such a degree within the previous 12 months. Those who have completed a bachelor’s degree but are not enrolled in a graduate program are not eligible.
- Specialized Candidates: Individuals in secretarial, assistant, or technical/professional training must be enrolled in a relevant educational institution, in their final year, or have recently graduated within the past 12 months.
- Language Skills: Candidates must have an excellent command of either English or French, both written and spoken. A working knowledge of the other language is considered an asset, especially for secretarial or assistant roles at UNESCO Headquarters.
- Computer Skills: Proficiency in office software such as MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and basic web applications is essential.
Personal Attributes
Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work well within a team, and adaptability to an international working environment. Effective communication skills and the capacity to collaborate across cultures are also important.
Benefits and Entitlements
UNESCO does not provide financial compensation to interns. Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship period. The program is intended primarily as a learning experience, offering valuable exposure rather than employment benefits.
Selection and Recruitment Process
The UNESCO Internship Program accepts applications throughout the year. Candidates should apply to the vacancy that aligns with their expertise. Successful applicants will be placed in the internship talent pool for up to six months, during which they may be assessed further and considered for specific internship opportunities. The final selection is made by relevant hiring managers, who will contact successful candidates directly. Candidates who do not receive an update within six months should consider their application unsuccessful.
Important Notes for Applicants
- It is recommended to prepare a motivation statement and a current CV before starting the application process.
- The application process must be completed within one hour.
- Applicants should ensure their contact details remain valid for at least six months.
- Applications can only be submitted in either English or French; unofficial translations are accepted if documents are in other languages.
- Submission to the internship pool does not guarantee placement, as demand exceeds available positions.
- If selected for an internship, candidates will be contacted directly by the respective manager. No responses will be sent to unsuccessful applicants.
This comprehensive overview aims to inform prospective candidates about the opportunities and expectations of the UNESCO Internship Program, emphasizing its role as a valuable professional development experience within an international setting.
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