The United Nations Development Programme offers a six-month internship in Effective Development Cooperation. Learn about responsibilities, requirements, and how to apply for this global policy-focused opportunity.
The United Nations Development Programme has opened applications for its Intern – Effective Development Cooperation position, offering aspiring professionals the chance to gain hands-on experience in international development policy. The six-month, full-time internship is based in New York, with an additional home-based work option, making it accessible to candidates from different regions. Applications are open until 13 April 2026, and the role sits within the Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy.
This opportunity is designed for students and recent graduates interested in global development cooperation, policy analysis, communications, and international partnerships. The internship places participants within a dynamic multinational environment, supporting initiatives aligned with the global sustainable development agenda.
About the Internship
The role focuses on supporting initiatives related to effective development cooperation, a key pillar of international collaboration aimed at strengthening partnerships, improving policy coordination, and enhancing development outcomes worldwide. Interns will contribute to ongoing projects led by the OECD-UNDP Joint Support Team, which works closely with governments and development partners.
Through this programme, interns gain exposure to policy processes, global partnerships, and international development frameworks. The position also involves collaboration with diverse stakeholders across multiple countries, providing valuable experience in global governance structures.
Key Responsibilities
The internship includes a mix of policy research, communications, and event coordination tasks. Responsibilities are broadly grouped into three main areas.
Policy Analysis and Secretariat Support
Interns will assist with policy research and analysis related to effective development cooperation. This includes reviewing trends, identifying strategic linkages, and supporting knowledge products such as issue briefs, discussion papers, and country stories. Participants will also contribute to monitoring exercises and progress reporting activities.
Additionally, interns may help draft communications to participating governments and support meetings related to development cooperation initiatives. This work provides practical exposure to international policy coordination.
Communications and Advocacy
A significant portion of the role focuses on communications support. Interns will assist with newsletters, social media content, and outreach materials aligned with the Global Partnership communication strategy. They may also contribute to managing digital platforms, updating websites, and supporting data visualization tools.
This aspect of the internship allows participants to develop skills in strategic communication, stakeholder engagement, and digital advocacy within the international development space.
Events Liaison and Coordination
Interns will help organize global events, workshops, webinars, and high-level meetings. Responsibilities include logistical planning, drafting partner communications, and supporting virtual engagement platforms. These activities offer exposure to international event management and multi-stakeholder coordination.
The role requires collaboration with partners such as governments, development institutions, and global networks. This provides interns with firsthand experience in managing complex international engagements.
Required Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate strong organizational and research capabilities. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work independently under tight deadlines are essential. Strong writing skills and the ability to produce development-related materials are also important.
The ideal candidate should have a collaborative mindset, cultural sensitivity, and enthusiasm for learning. Experience in research, policy development, communications, or event planning is considered advantageous but not mandatory.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must be enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree programme related to development fields. Relevant disciplines include economics, public administration, public policy, international relations, or international development studies.
Candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme
- In the final year of a bachelor’s degree
- Recently graduated and able to start within one year
Strong online research skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office are considered assets. Fluency in English is required, while knowledge of French or Spanish is desirable.
Internship Environment and Learning Opportunities
Interns will work within a multicultural and fast-paced environment. The position offers exposure to global policy dialogue, international partnerships, and development cooperation initiatives across multiple countries. Participants will also gain experience supporting monitoring frameworks and communication strategies.
This internship is particularly valuable for individuals seeking careers in international organizations, NGOs, or public policy institutions. It provides insights into how global development initiatives are coordinated and implemented.
Commitment to Inclusion and Ethical Standards
The organization maintains strict policies regarding non-discrimination, workplace respect, and ethical conduct. Selected candidates undergo reference and background checks and are expected to adhere to professional standards. The organization promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applicants from varied backgrounds.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Internships with global development organizations provide a strong foundation for careers in international policy and cooperation. By participating in this programme, interns gain exposure to real-world policy work, communications strategies, and international collaboration mechanisms.
With its combination of research, advocacy, and event coordination responsibilities, this internship offers a comprehensive learning experience. For students and recent graduates interested in global development, this opportunity provides valuable professional exposure and skill development within a leading international organization.
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