UNESCO Internship Opportunity: Governing Bodies Secretariat – Apply Before 31 December 2025

Location: UNESCO Headquarters, Paris
Type of Contract: Internship
Duration: 1 to 6 months
Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
Open to: External Candidates
Eligibility: Minimum 20 years old, enrolled in or recently graduated from a graduate-level programme

About UNESCO

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) works to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Upholding values such as professionalism, integrity, respect for diversity, and a commitment to the organization, UNESCO provides opportunities to engage in meaningful work that supports its global mandate.

Internship Overview

Under the overall authority of the Director of the Governing Bodies Secretariat and direct supervision of the Deputy Secretary of the Executive Board, the intern will contribute to various administrative, organizational, research, and documentation tasks. The internship provides hands-on experience within a key governance division of UNESCO and offers a unique perspective into the inner workings of multilateral diplomacy and institutional operations.

Main Responsibilities

Interns may contribute to selected tasks across four main areas of work:

1. Reports, Research, and Briefings

• Attend working meetings and contribute to the preparation of reports and briefings.
• Assist in drafting certain reports for UNESCO’s information meetings.
• Conduct research and prepare analytical or summary notes on relevant governance-related topics.
• Monitor international news and update the supervisor on significant developments relevant to UNESCO’s mandate.

2. Session Preparation (Executive Board and General Conference)

• Support the planning and follow-up of Executive Board and General Conference sessions.
• Assist with document preparation, archiving, and classification of statutory materials.
• Help coordinate decisions, summary records, and debriefings related to session outcomes.

3. Logistical and Organizational Support

• Contribute to the logistical and conceptual planning of sessions and meetings.
• Assist in ensuring smooth operations during high-level events, including the organization of preparatory groups, working groups, and informal meetings.

4. General Administrative Tasks

• Provide general support to the day-to-day activities of the Governing Bodies Secretariat.
• Carry out additional responsibilities assigned by supervisors to ensure efficient conduct of Secretariat functions.

Learning Objectives

Through this internship, the selected candidate will:

• Gain a better understanding of UNESCO’s governance structures and statutory processes.
• Learn about the rules of procedure for governing bodies such as the Executive Board and General Conference.
• Deepen knowledge of global policy debates and UNESCO’s role in addressing international challenges.
• Develop professional skills such as research, coordination, reporting, and diplomatic communication in a multicultural environment.
• Enhance adaptability, initiative, and teamwork, particularly during high-pressure sessions.

Required Qualifications

Age

Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.

Academic Background

At the time of application, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

• Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent).
• Recently graduated (within the past 12 months) with a Master’s or PhD degree.

Note: Candidates who hold only a Bachelor’s degree without current enrolment in a graduate programme are not eligible.

For applicants in secretarial or technical tracks:

• Must be in the final year of a recognized secretarial or technical/professional school, or have graduated within the past 12 months.

Languages

• Excellent written and spoken English or French is required.
• Working knowledge of the second language (English or French) is an asset and may be required for certain duties.

Skills

• Strong computer literacy and familiarity with office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to work well in teams and adapt to an international environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Core Competencies

The intern is expected to demonstrate the following UNESCO core competencies:

• Accountability
• Communication
• Innovation
• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
• Planning and organizing
• Results focus
• Teamwork
• Professionalism

Refer to the UNESCO Competency Framework for more detailed information.

Internship Conditions

• This internship is unpaid. UNESCO does not offer financial compensation or assistance for internships.
• Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month.
• All internship applications must be submitted in English or French. If supporting documents are in other languages, an unofficial translation must be provided.

Application and Selection Process

• UNESCO’s internship programme is open for applications in January and July each year.
• Applicants should apply to specific internship postings aligned with their expertise and interest.
• Successfully submitted applications will be entered into a candidate pool for a six-month period.
• Selected candidates will be contacted directly by hiring managers. Unsuccessful applicants will need to reapply in future cycles.

For further information and on how to apply please visit here.

Important Notes

• Ensure your contact details remain valid for at least six months from the date of application.
• Prepare your CV and motivation letter before starting the online application; the process must be completed within one hour.
• Due to the high volume of applications, only selected candidates will be contacted.
• Being eligible does not guarantee selection.

This internship is an opportunity to engage with a vital UN agency and gain practical experience supporting international governance and diplomacy at UNESCO.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.