UNHCR Internship Programme 2025–26 || Paid Internship

UNHCR Internship Programme 2025–26 | Global Humanitarian Internship for Students & Graduates

A Global Humanitarian Internship for Emerging Professionals

The UNHCR Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to work with the United Nations Refugee Agency — the world’s leading organization responsible for protecting refugees, asylum-seekers, stateless persons, and internally displaced communities.

This programme is designed for individuals passionate about humanitarian service, human rights, policy, communications, research, and international development.

 What the Internship Involves

Depending on the duty station and team, interns may work in areas such as:

• Refugee protection and case management
• Field support and community services
• Communication and public information
• Research and data analysis
• Programme and project support
• Education and livelihood projects
• Legal support and documentation
• Administration and coordination

Interns become part of real operational teams and contribute directly to the work of UNHCR offices around the world.

 Duration and Format

• Internships typically last 2 to 6 months.
• Some placements may be extended based on need and performance.
• Work can be full-time or part-time, depending on the office.
• Opportunities exist in headquarters, regional offices, field operations, and global service centers.

 Stipend and Support

While benefits may vary by location, UNHCR generally provides:

• A monthly stipend to help cover basic living expenses.
• A supportive work environment with professional guidance.
• Access to training, learning resources, and global networks.

Interns are responsible for arranging their own travel, visa, insurance, and accommodation unless otherwise mentioned by the specific duty station.

 Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a UNHCR internship, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled in a university programme or have graduated within the last 1–2 years.
• Have completed at least two years of undergraduate study.
• Possess strong interest in humanitarian work and refugee protection.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills, especially in English.
• Be able to work effectively in multicultural and diverse environments.
• Not have immediate family employed by UNHCR.

Relevant academic fields include international relations, law, social sciences, public health, data science, communications, development studies, environmental studies, and related areas.

 Why This Internship Matters

Joining UNHCR as an intern provides:

• Hands-on humanitarian experience working with real field data, communities, and operational teams.
• A deep understanding of global challenges affecting refugees and displaced individuals.
• Exposure to policymaking, advocacy, and international protection mechanisms.
• Experience working in a multicultural, mission-driven organization.
• A strong foundation for future careers in the UN system, NGOs, diplomacy, research, or international development.
• Valuable mentorship and global networking opportunities.

This is one of the most impactful internships for young people seeking to work in humanitarian or global development fields.

 Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight your commitment to human rights, refugee support, or community work.
• Showcase academic or volunteer experience relevant to humanitarian themes.
• Write a strong motivation statement explaining why refugee protection matters to you.
• Emphasize soft skills — empathy, adaptability, teamwork, cultural sensitivity.
• Prepare a clear, professional CV aligned with international standards.
• Be open to placements in different parts of the world, which increases your chances.

The UNHCR Internship Programme is a powerful entry point into humanitarian service. Whether you’re interested in policy, advocacy, law, community work, research, communications, or field operations, this internship gives you meaningful experience while helping some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.