Fully Funded UN Internship: Sustainable Development Goals Intern Opportunity Now Open
Fully Funded UN Internship: Sustainable Development Goals Intern Opportunity Now Open
Fully Funded UN Internship: Sustainable Development Goals Intern Opportunity Now Open. The United Nations has opened its 2025 call for Sustainable Development Goals Intern applications through the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). This competitive, full-time internship is designed for early-career individuals who are passionate about global development and eager to contribute to the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The internship is an excellent opportunity for university students and recent graduates interested in economic policy, global cooperation, and multilateral affairs. Interns will work at the heart of the UN’s SDG implementation efforts, gaining hands-on experience in an international policy-making environment.
Table of Contents
Background & Job Description
United Nations and the SDGs
The Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) supports international efforts to advance economic, social, and environmental progress. A critical component of this mission is the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a blueprint adopted by all UN Member States in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all.
The SDG Internship supports this mission by bringing in motivated individuals to assist with research, policy development, outreach, and data analysis related to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Internship Overview
This internship is based in the Economic and Social Development Job Network and classified under the Economic Affairs job family. The position is listed at the I-1 internship level, and although it is intended as a full-time, in-person role, arrangements may be made to accommodate remote or part-time participation depending on the candidate’s situation.
Successful applicants will report to professionals at the United Nations Headquarters and contribute to the UN’s internal and external efforts around SDG progress tracking, policy briefs, and intergovernmental dialogue.
Tasks
Core Responsibilities
Interns in the SDG unit of UN DESA are expected to take on a variety of tasks depending on the current priorities of the office. These may include:
1. Research and Policy Support
- Conduct background research on topics related to sustainable development, including social protection, climate action, inequality, and innovation.
- Analyze reports, resolutions, and trends impacting SDG implementation globally.
2. Data and Monitoring
- Assist in the collection and processing of data related to SDG indicators.
- Support the development of statistical visualizations and dashboard updates.
3. Communication and Outreach
- Draft blog posts, fact sheets, infographics, and other public information materials.
- Help prepare presentation materials and talking points for high-level meetings or forums.
4. Administrative and Logistical Support
- Assist in organizing meetings, webinars, and conferences.
- Coordinate communication with UN Member States, civil society, and other stakeholders.
This position provides interns with a unique opportunity to work closely with UN experts in shaping sustainable development policies that affect billions globally.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
Applicants must meet one of the following academic requirements:
- Be enrolled in a graduate or postgraduate program (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, international relations, sustainable development, or related fields.
- Be in the final academic year of a first university degree (Bachelor’s level or equivalent).
- Have recently graduated within the last year from a qualifying academic program.
Experience
No professional experience is required to apply. However, academic background or prior internship experience in the following areas is considered advantageous:
- Sustainable development
- Public policy
- Statistics or economics
- International cooperation
- Human rights and global governance
Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should possess:
- Strong research and writing skills
- Familiarity with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic data analysis tools
- Effective communication and collaboration abilities
- High attention to detail and strong time management
Additional Information
Internship Conditions
- Expected Start Date: Fall 2025, depending on availability and department needs
- Work Schedule: 35 hours per week (full-time), with flexibility available upon request
- Work Location: In-person at the UN Headquarters; remote options negotiable
Application Process
All applicants must:
- Submit an online application through the UN Careers Portal
- Include:
- A cover letter describing interest in sustainable development and alignment with the SDGs
- An up-to-date resume or CV
- A list of current courses or a graduation certificate (for recent graduates)
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews
There is no fee charged at any stage of the application process.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is required
- Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset
Why Apply for the SDG Internship?
The Sustainable Development Goals Internship is one of the most prestigious entry points into the UN system for young professionals interested in international development. Through this program, interns gain:
- First-hand exposure to global policy discussions
- Experience contributing to real-world UN projects
- Professional development through networking, mentoring, and collaboration
- A strong addition to any resume or graduate school application
Whether you aspire to become a diplomat, policymaker, NGO leader, or researcher, this internship offers an unparalleled foundation.
Apply Now to Join the Global Mission for Sustainable Development
If you’re passionate about building a better world and want to contribute to international development from within the UN system, this internship is your opportunity to make an impact.
Deadline to apply: July 30, 2025.
Apply directly through the official UN Careers Portal.
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Disclaimer
This listing is published by a third-party job and scholarship alert platform. We are not affiliated with the United Nations or UN DESA. Please apply only through official UN platforms and verify details on the original site.
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