UNDP is seeking a Policy and Advocacy Intern – Climate and Security Risk to support its work at the intersection of climate change, conflict prevention, and sustaining peace. Based in New York, with the possibility of remote or office-based engagement, this full-time internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global policy, research, and advocacy efforts within the UN system. The position sits within the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, under the Conflict Prevention, Peacebuilding and Responsive Institutions practice area, and is designed for early-career professionals or students with a strong interest in climate security and international development. Background and Context Climate change is increasingly recognised as a risk multiplier that exacerbates existing vulnerabilities, intensifies competition over resources, and places additional strain on institutions and communities. While climate change does not directly cause violent conflict, its impacts can amplify insecurity, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected settings where governance, economic, and social systems are already under pressure. Over the past two decades, the interlinkages between climate change, peace, and security have gained significant traction in both academic research and policy discourse. At the United Nations level, this has included formal recognition by the Security Council of the need for improved climate-related risk assessments and management strategies. However, further evidence and policy-oriented analysis are required to better understand how climate action can actively contribute to peacebuilding, stability, and resilience. Communities affected by conflict often face “double vulnerability,” experiencing both climate-related shocks and socio-political instability. Addressing these interconnected risks is a strategic priority for UNDP, which holds the largest climate mitigation and adaptation portfolio and one of the most extensive conflict prevention and peacebuilding mandates within the UN system. UNDP Climate Security Approach UNDP’s Climate Security Offer builds on the expertise of its Global Policy Network and the Climate Security Mechanism, bringing together climate, environmental, peace, and security programming. The approach focuses on integrated and innovative solutions that respond to complex, multidimensional risks. Key pillars of UNDP’s climate security work include: Climate-proofing conflict prevention and peacebuilding initiatives Promoting peace-positive climate mitigation and adaptation Delivering integrated approaches to climate action and sustaining peace Strengthening regional and cross-border capacities to address climate-related security risks Duties and Responsibilities Under the supervision of the Team Leader – Climate Security Risk, the intern will support policy development, research, advocacy, and communications activities. Tasks may vary depending on ongoing priorities and team needs. Core responsibilities may include: Supporting policy and advocacy work through data collection, drafting, editing, and formatting communications materials, success stories, and event invitations Collecting and analysing information related to policy and programme support and contributing to a compendium of good practices in climate, peace, and security Assisting with research activities, including the collection, analysis, and presentation of qualitative and quantitative data Supporting data analysis and visualization, including the preparation of infographics and factsheets Drafting social media content to promote UNDP events, publications, and knowledge products Providing administrative and substantive support to meetings, workshops, and events, including background notes, presentations, and logistics Contributing to ad hoc tasks as required to support the team’s objectives Required Experience and Competencies The internship is intended for candidates who demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills, as well as a genuine interest in climate security and international development. Desired experience and attributes include: Academic or practical exposure to climate change, peacebuilding, conflict prevention, climate security, or related fields Demonstrated understanding of international development and resilience-related issues Prior experience in a field office or international organization is an asset Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to work independently, take initiative, and meet tight deadlines Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively in diverse, multicultural teams Education and Language Requirements Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: Currently enrolled in a graduate degree programme Enrolled in the final year of a bachelor’s degree programme Graduated within the past year from a bachelor’s or graduate degree programme Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of an additional UN language is considered an advantage. Internship Conditions UNDP internships are governed by specific terms and conditions designed to complement academic learning rather than lead to immediate employment within the UN system. Key conditions include: Monthly stipend provided, with rates depending on duty station Interns are responsible for travel, accommodation, visas, and insurance Proof of valid health insurance is mandatory Internship duration ranges from a minimum of six weeks to a maximum of six months Interns are not UN staff members and may not represent UNDP officially Selected candidates must provide documentation including proof of enrollment or graduation, passport copy, transcripts, medical certificate, and a signed internship agreement Equal Opportunity and Safeguarding UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, or misconduct. All selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks and are expected to uphold the principles of the UN Charter and UNDP’s core values. 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 seeking for an intern. 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.