Apply for the UNDP 2026 Effective Development Cooperation Internship: 2 Six-month Positions Available in Geneva or Remotely, with a Monthly stipend

Overview

The United Nations Development Programme is offering two six-month internship positions within its Effective Development Cooperation team. The roles are hosted by the Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy through the team supporting the Global Partnership for Effective Development Co-operation. Selected interns will support international development policy, research, advocacy, communications, and coordination activities that impact approximately 100 countries. The positions may be based in Geneva, Switzerland, or completed through a home-based option.

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to students and recent graduates who meet specific educational criteria. Eligible applicants include individuals currently enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme at the Master's level or higher, students in the final academic year of an undergraduate degree programme, or recent graduates who finished their undergraduate or postgraduate degree within one year of the internship start date. Candidates enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship programme where the internship is part of the curriculum are also eligible. Relevant fields of study include development studies, economics, public administration, international relations, and related disciplines. Applicants must possess written and spoken fluency in English, while knowledge of French or Spanish is considered an advantage.

What you get

Selected participants gain six months of professional experience within the United Nations system, including exposure to international development policy, research, communications, and advocacy. Interns work alongside development practitioners and international partners while strengthening their analytical, writing, and stakeholder coordination skills. In accordance with UNDP internship policy, interns are eligible to receive a monthly stipend determined by the duty station.

Requirements

Applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, strong online research and information-gathering skills, and excellent written and verbal communication abilities in English. Candidates must also exhibit good organisational and time-management skills, attention to detail, commitment to accuracy, the ability to work independently, and a willingness to collaborate in a multicultural team. Additional experience in social media management, digital communications, graphic design, video production, advanced Excel, database management, Power BI, policy research, advocacy, international event planning, development cooperation, and working in developing countries serves as an advantage.

Key dates

Applications close on 10 November 2026 at 6:09 p.m.