The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering
a full-time Media and Advocacy Internship, based in New
York or home-based, for a duration of six months. This
internship provides an opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain
professional experience within the Bureau of External Relations and
Advocacy, contributing directly to UNDP’s global communications, media
engagement, and advocacy work.
The role is designed for individuals with a strong interest
in international development, media, and strategic communications, and offers
hands-on exposure to how a global UN organisation shapes narratives, engages
partners, and promotes development priorities worldwide.
Organisational Context
UNDP is the United Nations’ global development network,
operating in over 170 countries and territories. Its mission is to
help countries eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and address climate change
by developing sustainable, locally owned solutions. Through policy advice,
partnerships, and innovation, UNDP supports governments and communities in responding
to complex development challenges.
Communication plays a central role in achieving UNDP’s
mandate. Effective internal and external communications help amplify policy
impact, strengthen governance reforms, mobilise partnerships, and increase
visibility of development results. Within this context, the Office of
Communications leads efforts to advance UNDP’s global messaging,
digital presence, and media outreach.
Media and Advocacy Teams
The Media and Advocacy Teams are key contributors to UNDP’s
overall communications strategy. They serve as the organisation’s primary
interface with international and regional media while working closely with UNDP
units and country offices to develop consistent, impactful corporate messaging.
Their work includes:
- Positioning
UNDP leadership and priorities in global media
- Protecting
and strengthening UNDP’s institutional reputation
- Highlighting
donor contributions and development results
- Supporting
high-level events and advocacy initiatives
- Coordinating
with Goodwill Ambassadors and UN communication partners
- Showcasing
stories and impact from country offices worldwide
Interns support these efforts by contributing research,
analysis, coordination, and content development.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Media and Advocacy Team, the
intern may be involved in a range of tasks, including:
- Tracking,
researching, and analysing information on assigned development topics
- Gathering
information from diverse sources and assessing news value and potential
impact
- Supporting
the implementation of global and thematic communications campaigns
- Identifying
and proposing advocacy opportunities, activities, and outreach approaches
- Assisting
with the organisation of press conferences and media briefings
- Conducting
media monitoring and preparing daily or thematic news compilations
- Maintaining
and updating media contact lists and subscription databases
- Providing
general support to ongoing media and advocacy initiatives
- Undertaking
additional tasks as required by the team
Required Competencies
Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate the
following competencies:
- Strong
writing and editing skills
- Excellent
organisational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks
- High
attention to detail and accuracy
- Responsible,
responsive, and proactive working style
- Enthusiasm
and strong interest in global development and UN values
- Ability
to work effectively in a multicultural environment
- Awareness
of political sensitivities and international contexts
Education and Experience Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following
eligibility criteria at the time of application:
- Be
enrolled in a graduate degree programme
- Be
enrolled in the final year of a first university degree programme (minimum
bachelor’s level)
- Have
graduated with a university degree and be able to start the internship
within one year of graduation
Professional experience:
- Prior
experience in communications, media, advocacy, or related fields is
considered an asset but is not mandatory
Language requirements:
- Excellent
written and spoken English is required
Internship Conditions
- Contract
duration: Six months
- Schedule: Full-time
- Location: New
York, United States, or remote (home-based)
- Grade: IN
(Internship Programme)
- Status: Interns
are not considered UNDP staff members
UNDP internships are designed to be learning-oriented and do
not carry an expectation of future employment with the organisation.
Equal Opportunity and Ethical Standards
UNDP is an equal opportunity employer committed to
diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applications are encouraged from candidates
of all backgrounds, and recruitment decisions are based solely on merit and
suitability for the role.
The organisation maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward
sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All
selected candidates are subject to relevant background checks and are expected
to adhere strictly to UNDP’s ethical standards and codes of conduct.
UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates
from this vacancy and may retain applications for consideration for similar
positions at the same level.
Application Information
The application deadline for this internship is 19
February 2026. UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of the
recruitment process. Applicants are advised to remain vigilant against
fraudulent recruitment practices and consult UNDP’s official scam alert
resources if needed.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to
global development advocacy while gaining practical experience within a
high-impact international organisation.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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