2025 UNESCO Internship Programme in Paris France
Unlock the Secrets of Global Governance: UNESCO Governing Bodies Secretariat Internship
Are you ready to step into the heart of international diplomacy? UNESCO’s Governing Bodies Secretariat internship offers you an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the workings of UNESCO’s governing bodies and gain hands-on experience in high-level governance, policy analysis, and global strategy. Whether you’re passionate about international law, politics, or multilateral diplomacy, this internship will provide invaluable insight into the operations of one of the most prestigious global organizations.
About UNESCO
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) plays a vital role in promoting peace, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, science, culture, and communication. Based in Paris, UNESCO serves as the global leader in fostering international cooperation in these critical areas. The Governing Bodies Secretariat is responsible for facilitating the functioning of UNESCO’s main governing bodies, including the Executive Board and the General Conference, ensuring smooth, effective decision-making and compliance with UNESCO’s statutes.
Internship Overview
As an intern with the Governing Bodies Secretariat (GBS), you’ll work alongside UNESCO professionals who manage key processes and documents that drive UNESCO’s international governance. This internship is an opportunity to learn about the governance structure of UNESCO, contribute to critical decision-making processes, and gain exposure to the inner workings of the organization.
Under the guidance of the Deputy Secretary of the Executive Board, you will actively contribute to the preparation and management of UNESCO’s high-level meetings and sessions, while also supporting the team with essential research, documentation, and reporting tasks.
Key Responsibilities
As a part of the GBS team, you will engage in a variety of dynamic tasks that offer both strategic exposure and hands-on experience:
Reports, Research & Briefings
- Participate in meetings, assist with writing reports, and provide valuable insights during briefings.
- Support the drafting of analytical and summary notes on topics relevant to UNESCO’s governance.
- Stay updated on international news and brief your supervisor on developments that may impact UNESCO’s work.
Preparation for Executive Board & General Conference Sessions
- Assist with the preparation of documentation for upcoming sessions, including decisions, debriefings, and records.
- Participate in organizing and classifying statutory documents to ensure smooth meeting operations.
Logistics & Organization
- Contribute to the logistical and organizational planning for major UNESCO events, such as the Executive Board and General Conference sessions.
- Help with all facets of these sessions, including informative, functional, and conceptual preparation.
General Support Tasks
- Assist with the general day-to-day operations of the GBS, including working groups, informal meetings, and preparatory sessions.
- Ensure that all the Secretariat’s meetings are conducted efficiently and effectively, supporting the overarching goals of the organization.
Learning Objectives
As an intern, you will have the unique opportunity to:
- Deepen Your Knowledge of UNESCO: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the governance mechanisms within the United Nations system, focusing on UNESCO’s procedures, statutory texts, and governance practices.
- Enhance Research and Analytical Skills: Conduct research on global issues and summarize complex international matters that influence UNESCO’s decisions and policies.
- Experience International Diplomacy: Learn firsthand about the operational challenges and dynamics of working in an international, multicultural environment, with exposure to the diplomatic processes within UNESCO.
- Develop Organizational and Logistical Expertise: Contribute to the smooth functioning of high-level international meetings, and develop a keen understanding of organizing large-scale, complex events.
- Strengthen Soft Skills: Sharpen your diplomatic abilities, adaptability, communication skills, and ability to work under pressure within a professional environment.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the UNESCO Governing Bodies Secretariat Internship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Qualifications: You should be enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent) or have recently graduated (within the last 12 months).
- Languages: You must have a strong command of English or French (both written and spoken). A working knowledge of the other language is a plus.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with office software and computer systems is required.
- Teamwork: You should be able to work effectively in a team and adapt to the international work environment.
- Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential.
Conditions of the Internship
- Duration: The internship lasts from 1 to 6 months.
- Location: The internship is based at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France.
- Compensation: Please note that this internship is unpaid. However, interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship.
- Visa & Health Insurance: Interns are responsible for obtaining the necessary visa and ensuring they have health insurance for the duration of their internship.
How to Apply
To apply, follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Documents: Make sure your motivation letter and résumé are ready before starting the application process.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form on the UNESCO internship portal. You will have one hour to complete the process once you start.
- Language & Translation: You can submit your application in either English or French. If your documents are in another language, please provide an unofficial translation.
- Submit Your Application: After completing the form, submit it and await further communication. If selected, you will be contacted directly by UNESCO.
Important Notes
- No Guarantee of Placement: Meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection. We receive more applications than we can accommodate.
- Selection Process: Once you submit your application, it will stay in the UNESCO internship pool for six months. If selected, you will be contacted directly.
- Application Deadline: The deadline to apply is 31 December 2025.
Why Apply?
This is your chance to gain firsthand exposure to the fascinating world of international governance and multilateral diplomacy. By joining the Governing Bodies Secretariat at UNESCO, you will play an integral role in the organization’s mission to promote peace and sustainable development across the globe. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to contribute to global decision-making and advance your career in international relations!
Deadline: 31 December 2025
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