The United Nations is recruiting for an internship position in Environment Affairs within the United Nations Environment Programme (United Nations Environment Programme). The role is based at the UNEP New York Office in New York and is part of the organisation’s efforts to strengthen environmental governance and inter-agency collaboration across the UN system. The internship (Job Opening ID: 276603) is classified at the I-1 level and runs for a duration of six months. The application deadline is 6 May 2026, with the position posted on 30 April 2026. Organisational Context The United Nations Environment Programme serves as the leading global authority on environmental issues within the United Nations system. It plays a central role in setting the international environmental agenda, promoting sustainable development, and supporting coordinated action across UN agencies. The New York Office focuses on strategic engagement with UN Headquarters, intergovernmental processes, and key international partners. It ensures that environmental priorities are effectively integrated into broader UN development and policy frameworks, particularly in relation to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Internship Overview The internship is designed to support the interagency affairs function of UNEP in New York. Under the supervision of a Senior Programme Management Officer, the intern will contribute to research, coordination, communication, and administrative support related to environmental governance and UN system collaboration. The internship requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, and is conducted on-site at the UNEP New York Office. Key Responsibilities The intern will be engaged in a range of analytical, coordination, and communication tasks, including: Attending interagency meetings and preparing written summaries of key discussions Researching and documenting developments related to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Monitoring UN system reform initiatives and summarising outcomes from relevant inter-agency bodies, including the High-Level Committee on Programmes and the UN Sustainable Development Group Supporting the integration of environmental priorities into UN system-wide planning and coordination Assisting in the preparation of briefing notes, reports, and background materials for interagency discussions Contributing to the organisation of UNEP events, side events, and activities during the UN General Assembly Supporting communications and internal coordination within the interagency affairs team Assisting with the implementation of UN80 Work Packages led by UNEP Providing logistical and organisational support for the UN Task Force on Critical Energy Transition Minerals These responsibilities provide exposure to high-level multilateral processes and policy coordination within the United Nations system. Learning Objectives The internship is structured to provide practical experience in international environmental governance and interagency coordination. The intern is expected to develop: A deeper understanding of UN system operations and interagency collaboration Research and analytical skills in environmental policy and sustainable development Experience in drafting policy summaries, briefing notes, and reports Knowledge of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda Skills in event organisation and institutional communications Familiarity with global environmental governance frameworks Required Qualifications Applicants must meet one of the following academic criteria at the time of application: Be enrolled in the final year of a first university degree (Bachelor’s level or equivalent), or Be enrolled in a postgraduate programme (Master’s level or equivalent), or Have recently graduated (within one year) with a Bachelor’s degree Fields of study must be closely related to the internship, such as: Environmental Sciences Natural Resource Management International Relations Communication Related interdisciplinary fields No prior professional experience is required, although relevant academic background is essential. Skills and Competencies Language Requirements Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory Knowledge of another official UN language, including French, is considered an advantage Core Competencies Strong communication skills, both written and verbal Ability to analyse and summarise complex information Effective teamwork in multicultural environments Strong interpersonal skills and adaptability Client-oriented approach to stakeholder engagement Additional Skills Demonstrated ability to work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds Strong organisational and time-management abilities Interest in environmental policy and global governance Important Conditions Interns at the United Nations are not financially compensated. All costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses must be covered by the intern or sponsoring institution. Applicants who are not citizens or permanent residents of the host country may be required to obtain appropriate visas and work authorisation prior to commencing the internship. The United Nations maintains a strict policy of no recruitment fees at any stage of the process. Professional Environment and Values The internship requires alignment with core United Nations competencies, including: Communication: Clear and effective expression of ideas, active listening, and adaptation of communication style to different audiences Teamwork: Collaborative engagement, respect for diverse perspectives, and shared responsibility for outcomes Client Orientation: Responsiveness to stakeholders, proactive problem-solving, and commitment to delivering timely results The role also requires the ability to work effectively in a multicultural and international environment, reflecting the global nature of the United Nations system. Conclusion This internship with the United Nations Environment Programme in New York offers an opportunity to gain direct experience in international environmental governance, interagency coordination, and sustainable development policy processes. It is particularly suited to students or recent graduates with a strong academic background in environmental studies or international relations who are interested in contributing to global sustainability initiatives within the United Nations system. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the 6 May 2026 deadline. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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