The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the world’s leading environmental authority, working at the forefront of global efforts to protect the environment, promote sustainable development, and address climate-related challenges. In 2026, UNEP has announced an important internship opportunity for young professionals and students who wish to contribute to global peace, environmental protection, and climate security.
This opportunity is for the position of Intern – Policy and Analysis Unit, based at UNEP’s Geneva office, Switzerland. The internship is offered under the Disasters and Conflicts Branch, a critical division that focuses on the complex links between environment, climate change, peace, and security.
This article provides a complete overview of the internship, including responsibilities, qualifications, skills required, duration, work location, and important conditions.
Overview of UNEP Internship 2026
- Organization: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Post Title: Intern – Policy and Analysis Unit
- Job Opening ID: 269967
- Category & Level: Internship, I-1
- Duty Station: Geneva, Switzerland
- Duration: 6 Months
- Internship Type: Full-time (35–40 hours per week)
- Last Date to Apply: 18 January 2026
- Compensation: Unpaid
This internship is ideal for candidates who have a strong academic background and a genuine interest in addressing environmental and climate-related risks to peace and security.
About UNEP and the Disasters and Conflicts Branch
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UNEP sets the global environmental agenda and works closely with governments, international organizations, and civil society to address environmental challenges. Within UNEP, the Disasters and Conflicts Branch plays a crucial role in analyzing how environmental degradation, climate change, and natural resource scarcity can contribute to conflict and instability.
The Policy and Analysis Unit delivers politically informed and context-specific research, policy advice, and programmatic support. Its work focuses on preventing conflict, sustaining peace, and building resilience in fragile and crisis-affected regions.
UNEP–European Union Climate Change and Security Partnership
This internship is closely linked to the expanded UNEP–European Union (EU) Partnership on Climate Change, Environment, and Security (2024–2027). This partnership addresses climate and environmental risks that contribute to instability across the world.
Key objectives of this partnership include:
- Addressing environmental drivers of conflict
- Empowering local and regional actors
- Strengthening regional and transregional practitioner networks
- Promoting climate-resilient and peace-supporting solutions
The intern will actively support this partnership through research, analysis, and communication activities.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The selected intern will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and the Programme Manager in Geneva. The role is research-intensive and analytical, with strong exposure to international policy processes.
1. Programme and Project Support
- Assist in the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of programmes managed by the Policy and Analysis Unit
- Review reports and project documents to identify gaps, risks, and solutions
- Support coordination with internal and external stakeholders through digital platforms
2. Research and Geospatial Analysis
- Conduct research using geospatial datasets related to environmental and climate risks
- Support mapping and spatial analysis of areas affected by environmental stress, conflict, and social vulnerability
- Assist in exploring nature-based solutions, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure
- Prepare maps, graphs, and spatial visuals to support evidence-based decision-making
3. Policy Research and Writing
- Contribute to drafting research papers, analytical reports, and studies
- Conduct background research and synthesize complex information
- Support preparation of content for publications aligned with UNEP’s strategic priorities
4. Meetings, Conferences, and Consultations
- Assist in planning consultative meetings, workshops, and conferences
- Prepare briefing notes, background documents, and presentations
- Provide logistical and technical support
- Draft post-meeting reports and follow-up documentation
5. Outreach and Communication
- Support outreach and communication activities such as training workshops and seminars
- Develop communication materials for diverse stakeholders
- Assist with participant coordination and digital engagement
6. Budget and Financial Coordination
- Assist with budget-related activities and financial tracking
- Support drafting of funding proposals and progress reports
- Help analyze financial data to improve accountability and resource utilization
7. Additional Tasks
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Programme Coordinator or Manager
Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following academic and professional requirements:
Educational Qualification
- Currently enrolled in or within one year of completing a Master’s degree in:
- Environmental Sciences
- Climate Change Studies
- Environmental Policy
- Public Policy
- Geography
- Communications or related fields
- Final-year undergraduate students with relevant experience may also be considered
Skills and Competencies
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Experience working with geospatial datasets and tools
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to prepare professional reports and research papers
- Knowledge of data visualization tools
- Familiarity with digital collaboration platforms and content management systems
- Interest in environment, climate change, peace, and security
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is mandatory
- Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered an advantage
Internship Conditions and Important Information
- This is a UNPAID internship
- Interns are responsible for:
- Travel expenses
- Visa arrangements
- Accommodation and living costs
- Internship duration is limited to a maximum of 6 months within the UN Secretariat
- Interns must obtain appropriate visa/work authorization if required
UNEP clearly states that no fee is charged at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training ss.
Why This UNEP Internship Is Valuable
Although unpaid, this internship offers exceptional professional benefits:
- Exposure to UN-level policy and research work
- Hands-on experience in climate, environment, and security analysis
- Opportunity to work with international experts in Geneva
- Strong career value for future roles in UN agencies, NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations
Conclusion
The UNEP Internship 2026 – Policy and Analysis Unit, Geneva is an outstanding opportunity for students and early-career professionals who are passionate about environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and global peace. Through research, geospatial analysis, policy writing, and international collaboration, interns gain practical experience at the heart of global environmental governance.
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and are motivated to contribute to meaningful international work should apply before 18 January 2026 and take a significant step toward a career in global environmental and climate policy.
