UNDP Blue Resilience Internship 2026 (Home-Based, $1000USD Monthly Stipend): Apply Now for the United Nations Opportunity

If you are passionate about environmental sustainability, ocean governance, and international development, the Blue Resilience Intern opportunity at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) could be the perfect stepping stone for your career. This 5-month internship allows students and recent graduates to contribute to global efforts that strengthen fisheries governance, combat organized crime in the fishing industry, and promote a sustainable blue economy.

Hosted under UNDP’s Nature Hub within the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS), the internship provides valuable exposure to global environmental policy, project coordination, and international collaboration. The role is primarily home-based, offering flexibility while still allowing the intern to engage with international stakeholders and potentially travel for an important global event.

In this article, we explore the key responsibilities, eligibility requirements, benefits, and application details for this exciting UNDP internship.

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About the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s leading organization for sustainable development and poverty reduction. It supports countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing policy expertise, research, and technical support.

UNDP operates through a Global Policy Network (GPN), which connects experts across regional and country offices to provide solutions in key development areas such as climate action, governance, resilience, and sustainable economic growth.

Within this structure, the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) develops policies and guidance to support UNDP’s global development work. The Nature Hub, a unit within BPPS, focuses on promoting nature-positive development, environmental governance, and climate resilience initiatives worldwide.

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About the Blue Resilience Project

The Blue Resilience Project is an important initiative that aims to combat transnational organized crime in the global fishing industry. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing is a major challenge affecting marine ecosystems, food security, and livelihoods.

The project is supported by the Norwegian Government through the Blue Justice Initiative, in cooperation with Norway’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries. It helps countries strengthen their ability to detect and respond to crimes related to fisheries.

One of the key platforms supporting this initiative is the Blue Justice Community, a secure digital system that enables government authorities to share information, analyze vessel tracking data, and collaborate across borders.

The Blue Justice Community User Gathering 2026

A major highlight of the internship is supporting the organization of the Blue Justice Community User Gathering, an annual event that brings together international experts working to tackle fisheries crime.

The 2026 User Gathering is expected to take place in November in Copenhagen, Denmark, at UN City. During this event, government experts from around the world will participate in knowledge-sharing sessions, hands-on training, and case-based exercises designed to strengthen international cooperation in maritime security.

The intern will assist with planning, coordination, logistics, and communication for this major global event, gaining invaluable experience in international conference management.

Key Responsibilities of the Internship

The Blue Resilience Intern will play a supportive but important role in project coordination and event planning. The main duties include:

1. Supporting Event Organization (50%)

A significant portion of the internship involves helping organize the Blue Justice Community User Gathering. Responsibilities include:

• Participating in internal planning meetings
• Scheduling meetings with donors and stakeholders
• Preparing agendas and meeting minutes
• Supporting the creation of event concept notes and invitations
• Managing participant registration lists
• Distributing information and event materials
• Responding to stakeholder queries
• Assisting with travel arrangements for participants

This role provides hands-on experience in international event planning and multi-stakeholder coordination.

2. Supporting Event Logistics and Communication (10%)

During the event, the intern will assist with logistical and communication tasks, such as:

• Supporting participant registration and entry into UN City
• Helping coordinate with technical teams and service providers
• Taking notes during sessions and discussions
• Supporting social media and communications activities

These tasks ensure the event runs smoothly while allowing the intern to observe global policy discussions and collaborative problem-solving.

3. Post-Event Support (20%)

After the User Gathering, the intern will help summarize and document the outcomes. Responsibilities include:

• Contributing to the drafting of the event report
• Preparing thank-you messages for participants and stakeholders
• Assisting in documenting key lessons and insights

This experience strengthens research, writing, and documentation skills.

4. General Project Support (20%)

The intern will also assist with general project tasks, including:

• Supporting activities related to the Blue Justice Community platform
• Preparing communications and social media content
• Updating the project activity tracker
• Providing additional administrative or coordination support when needed

Skills and Competencies

UNDP seeks candidates who demonstrate strong professional values and teamwork abilities. Important competencies include:

• Ability to plan and deliver tasks efficiently
• Creativity and problem-solving skills
• Adaptability in dynamic work environments
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

These competencies align with UNDP’s mission to promote inclusive and sustainable development worldwide.

Education Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following academic conditions:

• Currently enrolled in a postgraduate degree program (Master’s or higher) in fields such as:
  • Environmental management
  • Environmental policy
  • Sustainability management
  • Sustainable development
  • Environmental economics
  • International relations
  • Communications

OR

• Be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree in similar fields.

Recent graduates may also apply if they start the internship within one year of graduation.

Preferred Experience

While not mandatory, the following experiences are considered an advantage:

• Strong organizational and project coordination skills
• Interest in maritime governance and international development
• Experience writing reports or analytical documents
• Familiarity with social media content creation
• Experience organizing webinars or virtual workshops
• Knowledge of platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams

Fluency in English is required.

Internship Conditions

Important details about the internship include:

• Duration: 5 months
• Work arrangement: Home-based
• Organization: UNDP Nature Hub (BPPS)
• Reporting to: Blue Resilience Project Manager

The internship is generally unpaid, although a monthly stipend may be provided according to UNDP internship policies.

Interns must provide their own equipment, workspace, internet connection, and medical insurance during the internship period.

Why This Internship Is Valuable

Working with UNDP provides a unique opportunity to gain global development experience and collaborate with international experts. The Blue Resilience Internship allows participants to:

• Learn about ocean governance and maritime security
• Gain experience in international project coordination
• Build networks with government and global policy experts
• Develop skills in event planning, research, and communications
• Contribute to initiatives supporting sustainable oceans and fisheries

For students interested in environmental policy, sustainability, and global governance, this internship can be an excellent career launchpad.

Application Deadline

Applications for the Blue Resilience Intern position must be submitted before:

9 March 2026

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply directly through the official UNDP careers portal. If you are passionate about protecting the oceans, strengthening international cooperation, and supporting sustainable development, this UNDP internship offers a unique chance to contribute to meaningful global change while building valuable professional experience.