For students and recent graduates eager to make a tangible impact in global efforts against crime, corruption, and drug-related issues, a remarkable internship opportunity has arisen with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in the Philippines. This position offers a unique chance to gain hands-on experience supporting international initiatives within Southeast Asia and the Pacific region.
About the Internship
The UNODC is seeking a motivated intern for a six-month, unpaid placement based primarily in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila. Starting around August 1, 2025, the internship is designed to provide comprehensive exposure to program administration, communication, and coordination activities across diverse UNODC projects.
This internship falls under the Management and Administration job network and offers a full-time work schedule, five days a week. While the position is unpaid, it promises invaluable experience working with an esteemed international organization dedicated to combating transnational crime, corruption, terrorism, and drug trafficking.
Scope of Work and Responsibilities
The intern will be actively involved across various teams within the UNODC Philippines Programme Office, supporting the implementation of the Regional Programme for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Their work will primarily focus on enhancing communication, facilitating stakeholder coordination, and strengthening administrative processes.
Key duties include:
- Drafting professional correspondence such as letters, newsletters, and concept notes to support project activities and stakeholder engagement.
- Developing clear and visually engaging communication materials, flyers, and outreach content aligned with UNODC branding.
- Preparing concise concept notes that outline objectives, target audiences, and implementation strategies for upcoming activities and campaigns.
- Assisting with coordination efforts by liaising with government agencies, civil society organizations, and other partners, and documenting these interactions through reports and meeting summaries.
- Supporting event planning and logistical arrangements, including preparing materials, managing schedules, and coordinating venues.
- Participating in team meetings, providing input, and following up on assigned action items to ensure smooth project execution.
- Maintaining organized records of communications, reports, and project documentation to support transparency and continuity.
Qualifications and Skills
Ideal candidates for this internship should meet the following criteria:
- Possess at least a high school diploma; applicants enrolled in or recently graduated from a university program are preferred.
- Studying or having recently completed degrees in fields such as Communications, Law, International Relations, Development Studies, Sociology, Political Science, or related disciplines.
- Demonstrate proficiency in standard office software, including MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams.
- Show a keen interest in UN work, especially in areas related to drugs, crime prevention, and international cooperation.
- Possess good communication skills, with the ability to draft articles or social media posts being an advantage.
- Have basic knowledge of administrative and office coordination tasks.
- Exhibit cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups and individuals.
While professional work experience is not required, applicants must demonstrate a genuine interest in the UN’s mission and a personal commitment to its ideals.
Language Requirements
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is essential for this role. Knowledge of additional UN languages such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish is considered an advantage.
Additional Information
As this internship is based in the Philippines, applicants must meet visa requirements and ensure they have proper authorization to work if they are non-residents. The internship is unpaid, and interns are expected to work full-time, five days per week, supporting the various activities of the UNODC team.
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline of July 1, 2025. The application should include a motivation letter, detailing their academic background, skills, interest in the position, and a personal statement about their commitment to the work of the UN.
Why Apply?
This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to efforts addressing some of the most pressing issues faced by Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Interns will gain valuable insights into international development, strengthen their administrative and communication skills, and build professional networks within the UN system.
If you are passionate about making a difference and eager to support global initiatives against crime and drugs, this position could be your stepping stone toward a meaningful career in international development and policy.
For more information about UNODC and to apply, visit the official UN careers page
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