UNFPA Paid Internship Program, Check out on how to Apply and Application processes.

The UNFPA Paid Internship Program is an opportunity offered by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to provide hands-on experience in the field of international development. Interns gain valuable insights into the organization’s mission of ensuring sexual and reproductive health and rights for all, advancing gender equality, and supporting sustainable development.

Key Features of the Program:

1. Eligibility Criteria:

Candidates must be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program or have graduated within the past year.

Academic focus in areas such as public health, social sciences, international relations, development studies, gender studies, or related fields.

Fluency in English is required; knowledge of another UN language (French, Spanish, or Arabic) is an advantage.

2. Duration and Location:

Internships typically last 3–6 months.

Positions are usually based at UNFPA headquarters in New York or regional and country offices worldwide.

3. Paid Opportunity:

Interns receive a stipend to cover basic living expenses during the internship period. However, they are responsible for travel, housing, and visa costs unless otherwise stated in specific postings.

4. Application Process:

Candidates can find internship opportunities listed on the UNFPA Careers Website or on the UN Careers Portal.

Required application materials include a CV, a cover letter, and sometimes a personal statement explaining interest in the position and alignment with UNFPA’s goals.

5. Roles and Responsibilities:

Assisting in research and analysis related to sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Supporting project implementation, communication strategies, and program monitoring.

Preparing reports, presentations, and other documentation.

Participating in meetings, workshops, and training sessions.

6. Skills Development:

Experience working in a diverse international environment.

Exposure to global development challenges and UNFPA’s strategic approaches.

Networking opportunities with professionals and partners in the UN system.

Tips for Success:

Tailor Your Application: Align your skills and experiences with UNFPA’s mission, emphasizing your passion for advancing gender equality and human rights.

Highlight Multilingual Abilities: Proficiency in additional UN languages is a significant asset.

Engage with UNFPA Work: Familiarize yourself with their programs and initiatives to demonstrate a deeper understanding of their goals.

Application Deadlines:

UNFPA internships are offered throughout the year, check for openings on their official careers page:

Application Portal .

How to Succeed in Securing an Internship with UNFPA:

1. Understand the Organization’s Mission and Values:

Research UNFPA’s core mission of advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and sustainable development. Familiarize yourself with their Strategic Plan, annual reports, and the key issues they address globally. This understanding will help you tailor your application and align your interests with their work.

2. Match Your Skills with Their Needs:

Review the internship postings carefully and identify the required qualifications and skills. Emphasize your expertise in areas like public health, gender equality, international development, human rights, or communication.

Highlight any specific skills such as research, data analysis, project management, or language proficiency, especially in UN languages (French, Spanish, Arabic).

3. Craft a Strong Application:

Tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific internship position. Clearly show how your skills, education, and past experiences align with the tasks and responsibilities outlined in the job description.

In your cover letter, demonstrate your passion for the issues UNFPA addresses. Explain why you want to work with UNFPA and how you can contribute to their mission.

If applicable, highlight relevant academic coursework or projects, especially those related to sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and development.

4. Showcase Global Awareness and Cultural Sensitivity:

As an intern, you’ll be working in an international environment. Show your ability to work across cultures, adaptability, and sensitivity to diverse issues.

If you have any international exposure, volunteer experience, or cross-cultural projects, make sure to mention them.

5. Prove Your Motivation and Commitment:

UNFPA values candidates who are passionate about their work and who are committed to making a difference in areas like gender equality and reproductive health. Demonstrate your long-term interest in international development and the UN’s work.

6. Prepare for Interviews:

If selected for an interview, be ready to discuss specific examples of your past work or experiences that relate to the responsibilities of the internship.

Focus on showcasing your problem-solving abilities, flexibility in handling different tasks, and commitment to UNFPA’s mission.

Be prepared to discuss your interest in the region or programmatic area you’re applying for and how you would contribute.

7. Develop a Strong Network:

Attend UNFPA-related events or webinars, if possible. Engaging with UNFPA staff or current/former interns can provide insights into their work culture and application tips.

Leverage LinkedIn and other professional networks to connect with UNFPA employees or former interns who may share useful advice.

The Impact of the UNFPA Internship Program:

1. Professional Development:

Interns gain hands-on experience working in a multinational, multicultural organization, gaining exposure to global development programs and challenges.

Interns develop skills in project management, research, data analysis, communication, and advocacy, which can significantly enhance their professional profiles.

2. Contributions to Global Development Goals:

Interns contribute to initiatives that directly impact global health, gender equality, and sustainable development. They help implement policies and programs that benefit millions worldwide, particularly in low-income or marginalized communities.

The work interns do often feeds into larger UNFPA programs in areas like family planning, gender-based violence prevention, and maternal health.

3. Building a Strong Professional Network:

As an intern, you’ll interact with experts and leaders in international development, policy, and human rights. This offers incredible networking opportunities that can open doors for future employment or collaboration.

Working alongside professionals from various UN agencies and international organizations expands your global network, which can be valuable for future job opportunities.

4. Exposure to UN System and Policy Making:

Interns gain a unique insight into the UN system and the process of international diplomacy. You’ll see firsthand how global policies are developed, implemented, and monitored in response to complex issues like population growth, reproductive rights, and gender justice.

Interns also develop a deeper understanding of global governance, multilateral partnerships, and the role of the UN in addressing international crises.

5. Contributing to Sustainable Change:

Interns support programs that aim to create long-lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits, particularly through empowering women and youth, promoting health and education, and advocating for human rights.

Your work with UNFPA will contribute directly to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, especially Goal 3 (Health and Well-Being) and Goal 5 (Gender Equality).

6. Career Growth and Opportunities:

Many former UNFPA interns secure full-time positions with the organization or other UN agencies after their internship. The program serves as a stepping stone for careers in international development, public health, human rights, and global policy.

Having UNFPA experience on your resume can significantly enhance your job prospects in international organizations, governments, NGOs, and private sectors focused on development issues.

Conclusion:

Securing an internship with UNFPA offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to contribute to global development efforts while gaining invaluable skills and experience. To succeed, you need to align your application with their mission, showcase your passion and commitment, and demonstrate how your skills can contribute to their work. The internship’s impact extends beyond personal development, as it allows you to be part of global solutions to urgent issues in sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and sustainable development.