Step into the World of International Diplomacy with UNESCO’s Internship 2025

Step into the World of International Diplomacy with UNESCO’s Internship 2025

Dear Students and Graduate Internship Seekers, Are you passionate about international relations and eager to support strategic policy development on a global scale? The UNESCO Priority Africa and External Relations Internship provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dive into high-level diplomacy, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience with a renowned global organization committed to fostering peace and development through collaboration.

About UNESCO

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, works to build peace, eradicate poverty, and drive sustainable development through education, culture, science, and communication. With its mission to strengthen international cooperation and promote universal values, UNESCO plays a vital role in the global landscape. The Priority Africa and External Relations sector focuses on the coordination and strategic relationship-building with Member States, UN agencies, intergovernmental organizations, and various partners.

Internship Overview

The Priority Africa and External Relations internship offers you an exceptional opportunity to contribute to UNESCO’s mission while learning the ropes of international diplomacy, policy coordination, and external relations. You will be part of a team that provides vital support to the Director-General, engages with key global stakeholders, and helps ensure UNESCO’s contributions to Africa’s development and international cooperation are effectively communicated.

As an intern, you’ll have the chance to work directly on high-level projects, support crucial meetings, and assist with policy development that shapes the global stage.

Key Responsibilities

During your internship, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of tasks that will immerse you in the intricacies of global diplomacy:

Policy and Coordination Support

• Assist in drafting notes, memoranda, letters, and proposals for submission to Member States, UNESCO sectors, and external partners.
• Support research and analysis for briefings for bilateral meetings, helping to prepare UNESCO leadership for high-level discussions.
• Help coordinate the sector’s contributions to key UNESCO statutory meetings, such as the General Conference and Executive Board sessions.
• Provide timely, accurate information to respond to inquiries and maintain positive relationships with UNESCO partners, Field Offices, and Member States.

Event and Stakeholder Management

• Assist in organizing and coordinating meetings, events, and conferences to support the work of the Priority Africa and External Relations sector.
• Provide technical support to ensure the smooth execution of meetings and activities that advance UNESCO’s mission.
• Contribute to updating the PAX website on the Intranet, ensuring that information about Member States, UNESCO events, and publications is current and accessible.

General Administrative Support

• Support the sector’s daily operations, assisting with logistical and communication tasks to ensure seamless workflow.
• Take part in the preparation of reports, summaries, and presentations that reflect UNESCO’s priorities and initiatives.

Learning Objectives

As an intern, you will have the chance to:

• Gain Insight into UNESCO’s Operations: Learn about the organization’s global role, with a focus on Africa and external relations, and understand how global policies are shaped and implemented.
• Enhance Diplomatic and Communication Skills: Develop a deeper understanding of diplomatic practices, stakeholder management, and how to communicate effectively across different cultures and sectors.
• Improve Administrative Competence: Sharpen your ability to manage complex tasks, coordinate between various stakeholders, and produce high-quality deliverables under tight deadlines.
• Develop Professional Skills: Strengthen your soft skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and client-oriented service, within a multicultural and dynamic environment.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the UNESCO Priority Africa and External Relations 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 degree, PhD, or equivalent) or have recently graduated with a Master’s or PhD degree within the last 12 months.
• Languages: Proficiency in English or French (both written and spoken) is required. A working knowledge of the other language is an asset.
• Technical Skills: A strong knowledge of computer systems and office-related software is essential. Familiarity with website management and content updates is a plus.
• Teamwork and Communication: You should be able to work effectively within a team and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Conditions of the Internship

• Duration: This internship lasts between 1 to 6 months.
• Location: The internship is available at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France, as well as UNESCO Field Offices and Institutes.
• Compensation: Please note that this internship is unpaid. However, interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during the internship.
• Visa & Health Insurance: Interns are responsible for obtaining the necessary visa and ensuring they have comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of their internship.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by following these steps:

1. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure your motivation letter and résumé are ready before starting the application process.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the application form on the UNESCO internship portal. You will have one hour to complete the process once you begin.
3. Language and Translation: You can submit your application in either English or French. If your documents are in another language, please provide an unofficial translation.
4. Submit Your Application: After completing the form, submit it and wait for further communication. If selected, you will be contacted directly by UNESCO.

Important Notes

• No Guarantee of Placement: Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee that you will be selected for the internship. The competition is high, and we receive more applications than we can accommodate.
• Selection Process: Once your application is submitted, it will be stored in the UNESCO internship portal for six months. If selected, you will be contacted directly by the relevant hiring manager.
• Application Deadline: The deadline for applications is 31 December 2025.

Why Apply?

This internship offers a unique opportunity to be part of an international organization at the forefront of global diplomacy and policy development. By joining UNESCO’s Priority Africa and External Relations sector, you will gain unparalleled insight into global decision-making processes and contribute to key initiatives aimed at strengthening international cooperation and development across Africa.

Ready to make a difference on the world stage? Apply for the UNESCO Priority Africa and External Relations Internship today and become part of a global movement shaping the future!

Deadline: 31 December 2025

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