UNESCO Headquarters Internship 2026 in Communications and Public Engagement. Apply Now

If you’re passionate about storytelling, digital media, and global impact, the Communications and Public Engagement Internship at UNESCO offers an exciting gateway into the world of international development. Based at UNESCO Headquarters, this internship provides a unique opportunity to work at the heart of a globally respected organization dedicated to education, science, culture, and communication.

Overview of the Internship

This internship is open to external candidates and runs for a duration of 1 to 6 months. Applications are accepted until 30 June 2026 (midnight Paris time). While the internship is unpaid, it offers invaluable professional experience, exposure to international projects, and the chance to collaborate with experts in a multicultural environment.

UNESCO operates under core values such as integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity, and commitment to its mission. Interns are expected to embody these principles while contributing meaningfully to the organization’s communication efforts.

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What You’ll Be Doing

Interns in the Division for Communications and Public Engagement will support a wide range of activities aimed at strengthening UNESCO’s visibility and outreach. This includes working across digital platforms, media relations, publishing, and public engagement initiatives.

In the social media space, you may help craft campaigns, create and edit content, design visuals, and analyze engagement metrics. You could also assist with filming interviews and producing multimedia content.

For web-related tasks, interns contribute to website creation, content editing, SEO reporting, and maintaining digital platforms. Those with technical skills may also support web development and system operations.

In the press and media domain, responsibilities include drafting press materials, preparing briefings, and coordinating media outreach. Interns may also assist in organizing press events and maintaining communication with journalists.

Creative roles extend to photo and publishing work, where you might participate in photo shoots, manage image databases, and support publication projects. There’s also an opportunity to contribute to branding initiatives and handle intellectual property-related tasks.

Additionally, interns may work on projects like UNESCO Campuses, organizing global educational events, or contribute to the UNESCO Courier magazine, assisting with content selection, editing, and digital publishing.

Learning Opportunities

This internship is designed to build both technical and soft skills. Interns gain hands-on experience in project management, communication strategies, and web architecture. You’ll sharpen your writing, learn to use design and content management tools, and understand how global communication campaigns are executed.

Equally important, you’ll develop teamwork and interpersonal skills while working in a diverse, international setting—an essential asset for any global career.

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Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must be at least 20 years old and meet one of the following academic criteria:

• Currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree
• Enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program
• Recently graduated (within the last 12 months)

Applicants should have excellent command of English or French, with knowledge of the other language considered an asset. Strong computer skills, communication abilities, and adaptability to an international work environment are essential.

Candidates with backgrounds in communication, journalism, digital media, or related fields are particularly encouraged to apply. Additional skills such as Photoshop, Drupal, or knowledge of multiple UN languages can strengthen your application.

Benefits and Considerations

Although this internship is unpaid, participants receive 2.5 days of leave per month, along with limited insurance coverage during the internship period. The real value lies in the experience, networking opportunities, and exposure to global communication strategies.

Application Process

Applicants are not applying for a single position but rather entering a talent pool. Successful candidates remain in this pool for up to six months and may be contacted by hiring managers if a suitable opportunity arises. Due to the high volume of applications, only selected candidates will be contacted.

Be prepared to complete the application within one hour and ensure your contact details remain valid throughout the selection period.

Final Thoughts

The UNESCO Communications and Public Engagement Internship is more than just a line on your CV—it’s a chance to contribute to meaningful global initiatives while developing skills that will shape your future career. If you’re ready to step into the world of international communications and make a difference, this opportunity is worth exploring.