Are you passionate about global policy, strategic communication, and making a real impact for children worldwide? UNICEF is offering a unique three-month Thought Leadership and Strategic Engagement Internship within its Global Programme Division, Director’s Office, based in New York or remotely. This opportunity is ideal for international students and recent graduates eager to gain hands-on experience in programme delivery and global advocacy. Join UNICEF’s mission to create a brighter future for every child and contribute to high-level initiatives that shape global conversations.
About the UNICEF Thought Leadership and Strategic Engagement Internship
- Host Country: United States (New York HQ or remote)
- Duration: 3 months (full-time)
- Dates: Starting June (applicants should indicate availability)
- Benefits: Stipend, exposure to global policy, professional development, multicultural environment
- Deadline: 21 April 2026 (Eastern Daylight Time)
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Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend for the duration of the internship
- Up to 2.5 days per month of leave for any reason
- Flexible working arrangements, including onsite or remote modality
- Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities
- Exposure to high-level strategic discussions and professional networks
- Opportunity to contribute to global policy and thought leadership
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Program Details
Interns will support the Director’s Office in two main areas: Programme Thought Leadership and Strategic Engagement. Tasks include helping launch a Journal/Field Notes series, developing internal analytical platforms, supporting staff engagement initiatives, and strengthening both internal and external communications. Interns will also assist in drafting LinkedIn articles, coordinating newsletters, and enhancing the division’s digital presence. By the end of the internship, participants will have contributed to key thought leadership products and helped establish structured engagement pipelines.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to international students and recent graduates
- Age: Not specified
- Background: Enrolled in or recently completed (within the past year) a graduate or advanced degree in business, economics, social sciences, political science, international development, communications, or related fields
- Requirements:
- Strong writing and communication skills
- Organizational and project management abilities
- Analytical thinking and intellectual curiosity
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with digital/content management platforms is an asset
- Experience or interest in consulting, strategy, research, communications, or digital engagement is advantageous
- Fluency in English (written and spoken); knowledge of another UN language is an asset
- Proof of medical insurance for the duration of the internship
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How to Apply for the UNICEF Thought Leadership Internship?
Interested candidates should apply online through the official UNICEF careers portal. Be sure to submit your application before the deadline and indicate your availability for the internship period. For more details and to start your application, visit the official website below.
Yasir is currently a master’s student at Bilkent University on a fully funded scholarship. He has a strong passion for technology, innovation, and creating meaningful impact through digital platforms. Yasir’s goal is to make education more accessible by helping students discover global opportunities and take confident steps toward their future.