UNESCO Offers Exciting Internship Opportunity at the Office of the Director-General

Eugen6 days ago

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UNESCO is Hiring for Non-Staff Consultant Position: Apply Now

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is inviting motivated and talented students or recent graduates to apply for an internship within the Office of the Director-General at UNESCO Headquarters. This internship provides a unique chance to gain firsthand experience working within a leading international organization dedicated to education, science, culture, social sciences, and communication.

Overview of the Internship

Location: UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, France
Duration: From 1 to 6 months
Type of Contract: Internship (unpaid)
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025, Midnight Paris Time
Open to: External candidates who meet eligibility criteria

Core Values and Mission

Throughout the internship, candidates will be expected to embody UNESCO’s core values: commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism. These principles underpin UNESCO’s work in fostering international cooperation and advancing global development.

Role and Responsibilities

Under the supervision of a senior advisor and under the authority of the Cabinet Coordination Officer, the intern will support the Advisor in preparing briefing files and documents on topics related to UNESCO’s areas of work, including education, science, culture, social and human sciences, and communication. This role offers an immersive learning experience into UNESCO’s operational environment, its mandate, and its collaborations with other UN agencies and international partners.

Specifically, the intern will assist in:

Preparing notes, memos, and opinions on administrative, political, and communication issues relevant to UNESCO’s activities.
Supporting speechwriting efforts, especially for the Director-General, by helping craft speeches, talking points, messages, editorials, articles, and forewords in both French and English.
Conducting documentary research to support official visits and speeches.
Assisting in revising correspondence and official documents to ensure clarity and professionalism.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will develop a comprehensive understanding of how multilateral organizations develop and manage communication and information projects, and how they navigate complex international policy processes. The internship will also strengthen skills in:

Data analysis related to communication strategies
Designing policy briefs and reports
Developing and implementing communication projects within a global framework
Understanding the dynamics of international cooperation, standards-setting, and capacity building

Moreover, interns will acquire practical skills in research, writing, stakeholder engagement, and project management, all within the context of UNESCO’s global initiatives.

Key Competencies and Qualities

Successful interns demonstrate accountability, effective communication, innovation, teamwork, professionalism, and a results-oriented mindset. Adaptability, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work well within a diverse, international environment are highly valued.

Eligibility and Qualifications

Age: Must be at least 20 years old
Academic Status: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within 12 months) from a graduate program (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent)
Language Skills: Excellent command of English or French (both spoken and written); knowledge of the other language is advantageous
Computer Skills: Proficient in office-related software (e.g., MS Office)
Additional: Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills; ability to adapt to an international environment

Candidates enrolled in secretarial or technical programs must be in their final year or have recently graduated from such studies.

Benefits and Entitlements

Please note, UNESCO internships are unpaid. Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship term, and they are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements.

Application and Selection Process

The UNESCO internships program opens twice a year—once in January and once in July. Interested candidates should prepare their motivation letter and CV beforehand, as the application process is competitive and time-sensitive. Applications must be submitted via UNESCO’s online portal, and candidates are advised to ensure their contact details are current for at least six months.

Selected candidates will be contacted directly by the relevant hiring managers. Due to the volume of applications, UNESCO cannot respond individually to all applicants; unsuccessful candidates will need to reapply in future cycles if interested.

Important Tips for Applicants

Have your motivation letter and résumé ready before starting your application.
Use only English or French to complete your application.
Provide translations if your documents are not in these languages.
Be mindful that applying does not guarantee placement, as competition is high.
Keep your contact details up to date and check your email regularly for updates.

Final Note

This internship does not provide financial compensation but offers invaluable exposure to international diplomacy, communication strategies, and UNESCO’s impactful work across the globe. It is an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to careers in international organizations, public diplomacy, communication, or development.