Application Deadline
March 15, 2026
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is inviting applications for a Strategic Communications and Outreach Intern based at its Multi-Country Office (MCO) in Washington, D.C. This on-site internship offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to global refugee advocacy while gaining practical experience in communications within an international humanitarian organization. Established in 1950, UNHCR leads global efforts to protect people forced to flee conflict and persecution. With staff operating in over 130 countries, the organization provides life-saving assistance and works to safeguard the rights and dignity of refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, and stateless populations. Position Overview Location: Washington, D.C., United States Contract Type: Internship Duration: 3–5 months Start Date: April–May 2026 Schedule: Part-time or full-time (20–40 hours per week) Application Deadline: 3 March 2026 Work Arrangement: On-site Hardship Level: H (No hardship) This internship is designed to provide exposure to UNHCR’s communications strategy, media engagement, and outreach efforts across the United States and the Caribbean. Organizational Context The U.S. Strategic Communications and Outreach team plays a key role in: Engaging U.S. and Caribbean media outlets Raising awareness about global refugee crises Promoting UNHCR’s protection and assistance mandate Strengthening partnerships, campaigns, exhibits, and digital engagement initiatives The intern will support efforts to inform and mobilize U.S. audiences in support of displaced communities worldwide. Key Responsibilities The Strategic Communications and Outreach Intern will: Support outreach initiatives, including media relations, digital campaigns, events, exhibits, and multimedia projects Assist in producing and managing multimedia content and graphic design materials Contribute to digital media development and communications products Monitor media coverage related to refugees, asylum-seekers, and humanitarian response Research and respond to public information requests Attend external events and prepare content summaries Support additional projects aligned with the team’s strategic objectives This role provides practical experience in communications strategy, media monitoring, and content production within a global humanitarian framework. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for consideration, candidates must: Be a current student or recent graduate (within two years of graduation) from an accredited university Have completed at least two years of undergraduate study in a relevant field Be legally residing in the United States Hold valid work authorization (EAD, permanent resident status, or U.S. citizenship) at the time of application Applications are only accepted through UNHCR’s online recruitment platform. Desired Skills and Qualifications UNHCR seeks candidates who demonstrate both technical skills and commitment to humanitarian values. Preferred qualifications include: Proficiency in multimedia production tools such as Canva or Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro) Strong command of Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Understanding of journalism, media relations, and strategic communications Demonstrated interest in international relations, refugee issues, or humanitarian response Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English Strong organizational and multitasking abilities Attention to detail and ability to work with minimal supervision Candidates may optionally submit a portfolio of multimedia work via email by the application deadline. Internship Conditions The internship is on-site in Washington, D.C. Interns not receiving external financial support will receive an allowance to help cover food, transportation, and living costs No recruitment fees are charged at any stage of the process A background review process may apply UNHCR strongly encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including candidates with refugee or stateless experience. Diversity and Inclusion UNHCR is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities during the recruitment process. All personal information provided regarding accommodations is treated confidentially. Why Join UNHCR An internship with UNHCR provides: Exposure to high-level humanitarian communications strategy Hands-on experience in multimedia production and media engagement Opportunities to contribute to global advocacy efforts Insight into refugee protection and international humanitarian systems Professional development within a globally recognized UN agency With nearly 19,000 staff worldwide supporting over 89 million displaced people, UNHCR offers a dynamic and mission-driven environment for emerging professionals committed to human rights and humanitarian impact. Interested candidates should apply through the official UNHCR careers platform before the stated deadline. 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 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.
Category
internship
Type
online
Organization / Source
globalsouthopportunities.com
Posted
February 13, 2026
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