Are you interested in entering the world of diplomacy  and public policy? Do you want to gain first-hand experience of working at the United Nations? If yes, then a summer internship at the UN might be the perfect opportunity for you.

The UN offers internships for students and recent graduates who are enrolled in or have completed a bachelor's, master's or PhD programme. The internships last for at least two months and can be as long as six months, depending on the needs of the organization and the availability of the interns.

As a UN intern, you will be part of a team of outstanding and inspiring professionals and senior managers. You will be exposed to high-profile conferences, participate in meetings, and contribute to analytical work and organizational policy of the UN. You will also have a chance to network with other interns and staff members, learn from their expertise and perspectives, and develop your skills and competencies.

The UN internships are unpaid and all costs related to travel, insurance, accommodation and living expenses must be borne by the interns or their sponsoring institutions. The interns are responsible for obtaining and financing the necessary visas and medical insurance. The interns must also be discreet and keep confidential any unpublished information obtained during the course of the internship.

The UN internships are highly competitive and selective. The applicants must have excellent command of English or French, and preferably another official UN language. The applicants must also demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the UN and align with its values and principles.

The application process for the UN internships varies depending on the location and department of interest. The applicants can search for available internship opportunities on the UN Careers website (https://careers.un.org) or on the websites of other UN funds and programmes (such as UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNOPS). The applicants must submit their online application through the Inspira system (https://inspira.un.org) and attach their cover letter, resume and proof of enrollment or graduation. The applicants may be contacted for an interview or a written test if shortlisted.

Conclusion:

A summer internship at the UN is a valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates who want to pursue a career in diplomacy and public policy. It offers a unique insight into the working environment and operations of the UN, as well as a chance to learn from and network with experienced professionals. The application process is rigorous and requires preparation and commitment from the applicants. If you are interested in applying for a UN internship, start your research early, check the eligibility criteria and deadlines, and tailor your application to your desired position.

FAQs:

Q: How can I find out about available internship opportunities at the UN?

A: You can search for internship opportunities on the UN Careers website (https://careers.un.org) or on the websites of other UN funds and programmes (such as UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNOPS). You can also follow the social media accounts of the UN offices or departments that interest you.

Q: How can I apply for a UN internship?

A: You can apply for a UN internship through the Inspira system (https://inspira.un.org). You will need to create an account, fill out your personal history profile, attach your cover letter, resume and proof of enrollment or graduation, and submit your application online.

Q: What are the requirements for a UN internship?

A: To be eligible for a UN internship, you must be enrolled in or have completed a bachelor's, master's or PhD programme; have excellent command of English or French; be neither a child nor a sibling of a UN Secretariat staff member; and have a keen interest in the work of the UN.

Q: How long does a UN internship last?

A: A UN internship lasts for at least two months and can be as long as six months.

Q: Do I get paid for a UN internship?

A: No, UN interns are not paid. All costs related to travel, insurance, accommodation and living expenses must be borne by either the interns or their sponsoring institutions.