If you’ve ever dreamed of working with the United Nations — especially in one of the most beautiful and international cities in the world — here’s your chance. Applications are officially open for the UNDP Internship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland, a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in global development, communications, and international relations.
This fully paid internship is hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) at its Geneva Office, a central hub for global policy dialogue, innovation, and international cooperation.
If you’re a young graduate or student interested in communication, policy, or humanitarian work, this six-month paid internship could be your perfect stepping stone into an international career.
🏢 About the UNDP Geneva Internship 2026
The UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is one of the world’s largest and most respected international development organizations. Its mission is to end poverty, build democratic governance, and support sustainable development worldwide.
The UNDP Geneva Office plays a crucial role in representing UNDP to international partners, donors, and governments, while coordinating advocacy and resource mobilization efforts across Europe.
For 2026, the Geneva Office is offering a Communications Internship, where selected interns will work closely with the Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy (BERA). The internship offers hands-on experience in media relations, content creation, digital communication, and stakeholder engagement — key skills for any future career in global development or diplomacy.
📍 Internship Details
Host Country: Switzerland
Location: Geneva
Duration: 6 Months
Area of Work: Communications, Media, and Public Relations
Bureau: Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy (BERA)
Application Deadline: 23rd October 2025
Start Date: Early 2026 (Exact date to be confirmed after selection)
💰 Financial Benefits — Paid Internship Program
While the UNDP Internship is not fully funded in terms of international travel or housing, it does include a monthly stipend to support interns with essential daily expenses during their stay in Geneva.
The monthly allowance is designed to help cover:
This makes it a paid internship opportunity, unlike many unpaid UN or NGO placements.
However, please note:
The internship does not cover:
Despite that, this program remains one of the most accessible and well-structured UN internships, especially for young graduates from developing countries.
🎯 Key Responsibilities
As a Communications Intern, you will be immersed in real UNDP operations, not just observing. You’ll work alongside communication professionals, external relations officers, and media specialists to enhance UNDP’s visibility and impact in Switzerland and beyond.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be doing:
1️⃣ Media Relations & Monitoring (20%)
This is where you’ll learn the real-world dynamics of global media and international communication.
2️⃣ Digital Communications & Audiovisual Production (40%)
This segment of the internship helps you gain digital communication and storytelling skills that are highly valuable in today’s media landscape.
3️⃣ Engagement with Swiss Parliamentarians & Partners (40%)
This exposure helps interns understand policy communication, diplomacy, and public engagement at the highest levels.
🌐 Why You Should Apply
The UNDP Geneva Internship is more than just a CV booster — it’s a real experience in the world of international cooperation, giving you the skills and network to launch your career.
Here’s why thousands of students apply each year:
This internship can serve as a gateway to other opportunities — including full-time UNDP positions, UN Volunteer roles, or international master’s scholarships.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UNDP Internship 2026 in Geneva, applicants must meet the following criteria:
✅ Academic Requirements
✅ Technical & Professional Skills
🧭 Additional Recommended Skills
While not mandatory, these skills can make your application stand out:
🎓 Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is open to applicants from all nationalities, including those from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
Whether you’re a final-year undergraduate, a recent graduate, or a young professional, you are eligible to apply — as long as you meet the academic and language requirements.
🗂️ Application Process — Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the UNDP Internship 2026 in Geneva is straightforward and entirely online. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official UNDP Careers Website
Go to the UNDP Careers Portal and search for “Communications Internship – Geneva”.
👉 Visit the UNDP Careers Portal
Step 2: Create a Personal Profile
Register for a free account, upload your academic and professional details, and create a complete applicant profile.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents
You’ll typically need to submit:
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit your application before 23rd October 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
Step 5: Wait for Shortlisting
If shortlisted, you may be contacted for a brief virtual interview or asked to submit additional information.
💼 Similar Internship Opportunities You Can Explore
If you’re passionate about working with the UN or other international organizations, here are some related internships worth applying for:
These programs can also be found on Owafk Africa and Ranking Abroad, which regularly publish updated lists of fully funded global internships and scholarships.
🧳 Living in Geneva, Switzerland as an Intern
Geneva is one of the most international cities in the world — home to the UN, WHO, ILO, WTO, and dozens of international NGOs.
As an intern, you’ll enjoy:
While the cost of living in Switzerland can be high, the UNDP stipend helps offset daily expenses — and many interns find affordable accommodation through student networks or shared apartments.
💡 Tips for a Successful Application
To boost your chances of selection:
🌍 Final Thoughts
The UNDP Internship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland is one of the most valuable opportunities for young professionals seeking international exposure, global development experience, and networking at the highest level.
It’s not just about working for the UN — it’s about learning how global institutions function, how policies are shaped, and how communication drives change.
If you’ve ever imagined yourself working in international development, this could be your starting point.
🔗 Official Application Link
👉 Apply Now for the UNDP Geneva Internship 2026
Deadline: 23rd October 2025
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Duration: 6 Months
