Apply for the 6-Month UNSGSA Internship at UNDP (USD 1,000 Monthly stipend): Exciting opportunity – Apply Now

If you are passionate about financial inclusion, economic development, and high-level global advocacy, the UNSGSA Internship with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) could be the opportunity that transforms your career.

Based at UNDP Headquarters in New York, this six-month internship offers hands-on exposure to global financial health advocacy under the leadership of Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, serving as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health. Applications close on 8 March 2026, and selected candidates will receive a USD 1,000 monthly stipend (for full-time engagement).

About UNDP

The United Nations Development Programme works in approximately 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and build resilience. Through policy advice, institutional strengthening, and strategic partnerships, UNDP supports governments in achieving sustainable development goals.

This internship is hosted within UNDP’s Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy (BERA), a division that strengthens global partnerships and amplifies development impact through strategic advocacy.

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About the UNSGSA Office

Since 2024, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has served as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health (UNSGSA). In this role, she champions global efforts to improve financial health—ensuring people can manage daily expenses, absorb financial shocks, plan for the future, and feel secure in their financial lives.

Her advocacy bridges governments, international financial institutions, G20 leaders, UN agencies, and private sector actors. The Office of the UNSGSA collaborates with influential global institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the United Nations Capital Development Fund , among others, to translate advocacy into real policy and market reforms.

The internship places you directly within this dynamic and high-impact ecosystem.

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Internship Overview

• Location: New York, United States
• Agency: UNDP
• Practice Area: Inclusive Growth
• Contract Duration: 6 months
• Schedule: Full-time (5 days/week) or part-time (2.5–3 days/week)
• Work Model: Hybrid (minimum three in-office days per week)
• Stipend: USD 1,000 per month (full-time equivalent)
• Application Deadline: 8 March 2026

The intern reports to the Policy Specialist in the Office of the UNSGSA.

Key Responsibilities

1. Supporting High-Level Advocacy (75%)

This internship is deeply policy-oriented and research-driven. You will:

• Conduct research and analysis on financial health and financial inclusion
• Develop case studies on emerging good practices in financial product design
• Draft briefing notes, background papers, and analytical memos
• Support preparations for high-level meetings and international country visits
• Attend relevant UN meetings and track global policy discussions
• Prepare stakeholder meeting notes and correspondence

You will gain insight into how advocacy at the highest levels translates into global financial policy conversations and reform initiatives.

2. Supporting Office Management & Operations (25%)

Beyond policy work, you will contribute to operational effectiveness by:

• Providing logistical support for high-level engagements
• Assisting with stakeholder outreach to governments and UN agencies
• Supporting documentation and communications
• Contributing to ad hoc administrative and coordination tasks

This balance ensures you understand both the strategic and operational sides of international advocacy.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is designed for ambitious graduate-level candidates interested in global development and financial systems reform.

Education Requirements

Candidates must:

• Be currently enrolled in a Master’s degree programme; or
• Have graduated within the past year from a Master’s programme

Relevant academic backgrounds include:

• International Relations
• Economics
• Finance
• Political Science
• International Development
• Business Management

Desired Experience and Skills

Competitive applicants will demonstrate:

• Knowledge of financial inclusion and international development
• Strong research and analytical capabilities (qualitative and quantitative)
• Excellent writing and communication skills in English
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Professionalism, integrity, and discretion

Experience in financial institutions (banks, fintech companies, microfinance institutions) or engagement with high-level stakeholders is considered an asset.

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French or Spanish is an advantage.

Internship Conditions

While interns are not classified as UNDP staff members, they receive a USD 1,000 monthly stipend for full-time participation in line with UNDP policy.

Important conditions include:

• Interns must arrange their own travel, visa, and accommodation
• Proof of health insurance coverage is mandatory
• UNDP does not assume responsibility for medical or travel-related expenses
• Interns may not represent UNDP in any official capacity

This internship follows a hybrid work model, requiring in-office presence at UNDP Headquarters in New York at least three days per week.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

The UNSGSA Internship offers a rare combination of:

• Direct exposure to global financial policy advocacy
• Engagement with high-level international stakeholders
• Real-world experience in multilateral diplomacy
• Advanced research and policy drafting opportunities
• A prestigious UNDP credential on your CV

Working within the Office of the UNSGSA means contributing to efforts that directly impact how financial systems serve people worldwide—especially vulnerable populations seeking stability and opportunity.

Final Thoughts

If you aspire to build a career in international development, financial policy, or global advocacy, this internship provides a powerful stepping stone. You will work at the intersection of finance, diplomacy, and development while supporting one of the most visible financial inclusion champions within the United Nations system.

With a competitive application window closing on 8 March 2026, now is the time to prepare your materials and take the next step toward an impactful global career