The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has officially announced the Human Rights Internship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. This prestigious international internship offers students and recent graduates a rare opportunity to gain first-hand experience working with the UNโs principal human rights body.
The internship is hosted under the Media Outreach & Spokespersonโs Office (MOSO) and focuses on public information, media engagement, and human rights communication. For candidates aspiring to build a global career in human rights, international relations, journalism, law, or public policy, this internship is a powerful stepping stone human 2.
About OHCHR
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is responsible for promoting and protecting all human rights globally. It works to:
- Strengthen international human rights mechanisms
- Combat discrimination and inequality
- Promote accountability and rule of law
- Integrate human rights into development and economic policy
- Support early warning and protection in conflict situations
OHCHR plays a critical role in shaping global human rights policies and supporting states in implementing international standards human 2.
Internship Overview
Internship Title
Intern โ Human Rights (I-1)
Job Opening ID
270984
Duty Station
Raising Good Humans
Raising Securely Attached Kids
Geneva, Switzerland
Internship Category
UN Secretariat Internship (I-1 Level)
Internship Duration
3 to 6 months (renewable after initial 3 months)
Start Date
From 1 April 2026
Application Deadline
10 March 2026
Internship Type
Full-time, Unpaid Internship human 2
Work Location: Geneva
Geneva is one of the most important diplomatic hubs in the world and hosts numerous UN agencies. Interning at OHCHR Geneva allows candidates to engage directly with international human rights mechanisms, treaty bodies, special rapporteurs, and global media.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Interns work under the guidance of the Chief of Section/Spokesperson and report to the Deputy Spokesperson or Public Information Officer. Responsibilities may vary depending on background but generally include:
Media & Communication Support
- Monitoring global media coverage related to OHCHR activities
- Preparing daily media clippings on human rights developments
- Assisting in drafting press materials and media content
Event & Press Briefing Assistance
- Supporting press conferences and bi-weekly UN briefings
- Helping organize and manage official events and media briefings
Research & Content Development แแแ
- Researching human rights issues for media outreach
- Supporting preparation of speeches, statements, and reports
- Assisting with content for digital and social media platforms
Additional Tasks
- Supporting Special Procedures and Treaty Bodies communication
- Any other tasks assigned by supervisors as required human 2
Educational Qualifications
To be eligible, applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions at the time of application:
- Enrolled in the final year of a Bachelorโs degree
- Enrolled in a Masterโs or higher degree program
- Have recently completed a Bachelorโs or Masterโs degree
Preferred Fields of Study
- Law
- Human Rights
- Journalism
- Communication
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Public Administration
- Social Sciences or related disciplines human 2
Work Experience Requirement
โ No prior work experience is required
This makes the OHCHR internship especially suitable for students and fresh graduates looking to enter the UN system.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English โ Mandatory
- French โ Advantage
- Knowledge of another UN official language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset human 2
Internship Benefits
Although unpaid, the OHCHR internship offers exceptional non-monetary benefits:
- Direct exposure to UN human rights operations
- Hands-on experience in international media and advocacy
- Networking with UN officials and human rights experts
- Strong credential for future UN jobs, NGOs, or academic careers
- Real-world understanding of global human rights mechanisms
Financial & Visa Information
Internship Stipend
- โ No financial remuneration provided
Expenses
Interns are responsible for:
- Travel costs
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Medical insurance
Visa Requirements
- Non-Swiss nationals must obtain appropriate internship visa/work authorization
- Visa arrangements must be discussed before accepting the offer human 2
Important UN Notice
โ ๏ธ The United Nations does NOT charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
This includes:
- Application
- Interview
- Processing
- Training
The UN will never ask for bank details or payment during recruitment human 2.
How to Apply for OHCHR Internship 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the UN Careers Portal
- Search using Job Opening ID: 270984
- Create or log in to your UN Careers account
- Complete the online application form
- Upload required documents:
- Updated CV
- Motivation/cover letter
- Academic certificates
- Submit application before 10 March 2026
Selection Process
- Shortlisting based on academic background and motivation
- Assessment of communication and research skills
- Final selection by OHCHR supervisors
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Career Prospects After Internship
Completing an OHCHR internship significantly improves chances of:
- UN Junior Professional Officer (JPO) roles
- UN consultancies and temporary jobs
- International NGOs and think tanks
- Research and policy roles
- Higher studies in human rights and international law
Who Should Apply?
This internship is ideal for:
- Human rights students
- Law and international relations graduates
- Aspiring journalists and media professionals
- Policy researchers
- Students aiming for a UN or diplomatic career
Final Thoughts
The United Nations OHCHR Human Rights Internship 2026 in Geneva is a prestigious opportunity to work at the heart of the global human rights system. Despite being unpaid, the experience, exposure, and professional value it offers are unmatched. If you are passionate about human rights, justice, and global advocacy, this internship can be a defining milestone in your career
