Internship with the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG)

Internship with the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG)

UN Departments

January 27, 2026February 28, 2026New YorkUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. The DSDG is dedicated to promoting and coordinating the implementation of the sustainable development agenda of the United Nations, serving as the global secretariat for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The organization plays a crucial role in providing substantive inputs to the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, ensuring that the global community remains focused on achieving these critical goals. The United Nations, established in 1945, operates in multiple countries and employs thousands of individuals worldwide, working towards peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and development across various sectors.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience within the United Nations framework, specifically focusing on sustainable development initiatives. Interns will engage in a variety of tasks that support the DSDG's mission to promote and coordinate the implementation of the SDGs. The position is primarily in-person and full-time, requiring interns to work five days a week for a total of 35 hours. However, there is flexibility for remote or hybrid arrangements based on the successful candidate's needs. Interns will work under the supervision of a Senior Officer and will have the opportunity to contribute to significant projects, including virtual events, research, and document drafting. This role is particularly suited for individuals passionate about sustainable development and eager to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic international environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a wide range of duties that support the DSDG's objectives. These include assisting with the organization of virtual events and training sessions, which involves preparing agendas, co-drafting background materials, and creating meeting reports. Interns will provide technical support during virtual events, assist in outreach efforts, and prepare summaries and participant lists. Additionally, they will support research efforts by collecting and analyzing data from various sources, helping to prepare papers and reports related to the DSDG's work. Interns will also engage in organizing information and analyzing trends, participate in relevant UN Headquarters events, and assist in planning major conferences such as the ECOSOC Partnership Forum and the High-Level Political Forum 202
  • Other ad hoc activities related to the SDGs may also be assigned as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered for the internship. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (such as a Master's degree or Ph.D.) or be in their final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level). In some cases, applicants who are early in their careers or changing careers may also be considered on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, candidates must be computer literate in standard software applications. Importantly, no prior working experience is required to apply for this internship, as the focus is on the skills and educational background that can contribute to the United Nations' mission.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in or completion of a graduate program, such as a Master's degree or equivalent, or being in the final year of a Bachelor's degree program. This ensures that candidates possess the necessary academic foundation to engage with the complex issues surrounding sustainable development. The internship is designed to benefit from the training, education, and advanced coursework of the interns, allowing them to apply their knowledge in a practical setting within the United Nations.

Experience:
This internship does not require any prior work experience, making it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to enter the workforce. The United Nations Internship Programme is open to individuals who are at the beginning of their careers or those who are transitioning into new fields. The focus is on the potential for learning and contribution rather than previous employment history, allowing a diverse range of candidates to apply.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language. Additionally, familiarity with other official United Nations languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, meaning that interns will not receive financial remuneration from the United Nations. As such, candidates should be prepared to cover their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is located may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Furthermore, the United Nations emphasizes that there are no fees associated with any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
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