The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global authority on environmental sustainability. It sets the international environmental agenda, promotes sustainable development within the UN system, and advocates for the protection of the planet. UNEP operates under the UN Environment Division of Economy, Finance, and Economics, focusing on environmental conservation, poverty reduction, and sustainable economic growth. Within UNEP, the UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) represents a unique partnership with the private financial sector. This initiative engages over 500 financial institutions that adhere to UNEP FI’s environmental commitment statements. Through its commissions, advisory groups, and regional programs, UNEP FI promotes sustainability integration in all aspects of financial institution operations. Internship Details Position: Internship, I-1 Level Duty Station: Geneva, Switzerland (home-based flexibility) Duration: 6 months Department: United Nations Environment Programme Application Deadline: March 8, 2026 Language Requirements: Fluency in English, Russian, and Armenian; knowledge of French or Spanish is advantageous Role and Responsibilities The intern will support UNEP FI in integrating environmental sustainability into financial decision-making, with a focus on Europe and the upcoming COP17 Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Key responsibilities include: COP17 Finance Day Support: Assist in agenda development and coordination with financial institutions and partners Prepare communication and analytical materials for the event Financial Sector Engagement: Support outreach to banks, investors, regulators, and other stakeholders Promote alignment of financial flows with biodiversity and sustainability goals Europe Regional Programme Support: Strengthen responsible finance practices among UNEP FI members in Central and Eastern Europe, the Balkans, Caucasus, and Central Asia Support regulatory implementation, capacity building, and member engagement Research and Analysis: Conduct desktop research on biodiversity, finance, and regulatory developments Analyze portfolio alignment, blue/ocean finance, food systems, biodiversity credits, and related areas Administrative and Communication Tasks: Maintain tracking sheets, draft presentations, briefing notes, and speaking points Provide general support to the Europe Regional Team and UNEP FI Secretariat This role requires strong quantitative and technical skills, a focus on sustainable finance and ecosystems, and familiarity with financial institutions. Interns must have completed or be close to completing a relevant master’s or undergraduate degree and possess excellent research, communication, and organizational abilities. Qualifications and Special Skills Applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria: Be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or equivalent) Be in the final year of a first university degree program (Bachelor’s or equivalent) Have recently graduated and be eligible to commence the internship within one year of graduation Preferred candidates are studying finance, business administration, environmental studies, or related disciplines, with exposure to banking, finance, or insurance industries. Professional work experience is not required, but a relevant field of study is essential. Application Requirements Candidates must submit a complete application through the UN Careers Portal, including: A Personal History Profile and Cover Note specifying: Current degree program and graduation date IT skills and relevant software proficiency Motivation for applying and expected learning outcomes Proof of enrollment or a certified copy of the degree certificate Evidence of meeting one of the qualification criteria Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the hiring manager. Internship Logistics Interns are not financially remunerated. Travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or sponsoring institution. Interns may require visas or work authorization depending on the duty station. Important Notices The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment, including application, interview, or training. Interns should ensure they meet visa requirements before accepting the offer. The UN emphasizes equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion throughout its selection process. Additional Information The UNEP FI internship provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in sustainable finance, environmental policy, and international collaboration. Interns will contribute to high-impact projects, engage with financial institutions, and support global biodiversity initiatives. The role offers professional development in research, policy analysis, communication, and project management. By participating in UNEP FI programs, interns help advance the UN’s mission to integrate environmental sustainability into financial decision-making and promote global resilience in natural ecosystems. Key Benefits Exposure to international finance and sustainability policy Networking with leading financial institutions and environmental experts Hands-on experience in research, analysis, and event coordination Professional mentorship from UNEP FI experts VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the internship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.