The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Communications and Knowledge Management Internship. This highly sought-after role allows students and recent graduates to support UNDP’s global mission—eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities—from a fully remote environment.
This position is ideal for digitally-native storytellers who want to bridge the gap between complex development data and public awareness. As a remote intern, you will be part of a distributed team, gaining high-profile experience with one of the world’s leading international organizations.
Want a Remote UN Internship? UNDP Is Hiring a Communications and Knowledge Management Intern (2026)
Table of Contents
Background & Job Description
Organization Overview and Mission
UNDP works in roughly 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty and the reduction of inequalities. In 2026, UNDP’s focus is heavily centered on SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and the 2030 Agenda. The organization helps countries develop policies, leadership skills, and institutional capabilities to sustain development results.
Role Purpose and Impact
The Communications and Knowledge Management Intern acts as a technical booster for UNDP’s visibility. By managing digital platforms and curating knowledge repositories, you ensure that vital development research and success stories reach the right audiences—including policymakers, donors, and the general public. In a remote capacity, you are the digital glue that connects regional hubs to global audiences.
Key Responsibilities
This role is divided between creative outreach and structured information management:
1. Communications & Outreach (50% – 60%)
- Content Creation: Produce materials for social media (Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, X) and the UNDP regional websites.
- Engagement Tracking: Monitor web metrics and social media trends to improve audience outreach.
- Advocacy Materials: Draft newsletters, briefing notes, and press releases to support regional campaigns.
- Branding Compliance: Ensure all content meets UNDP and donor editorial standards.
2. Knowledge Management & Events (40%)
- Repository Management: Update and maintain the project’s digital library of tools, guidance materials, and learning products.
- Data Visualization: Assist in collecting data and creating visual reports to inform internal learning.
- Event Support: Coordinate logistics and prepare agendas for virtual workshops, webinars, and regional policy dialogues.
Qualifications
The UNDP seeks high-achieving candidates who can work independently in a multicultural, digital environment.
Education & Certification
- Current Student: Enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s programme or currently in a Master’s/PhD programme.
- Recent Graduate: Have graduated within the last 12 months from a relevant field (Communications, Digital Marketing, International Relations, or Social Sciences).
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in another UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian) is a significant asset.
Experience & Technical Skills
- Digital Tools: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Teams/SharePoint) and design tools like Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or Premiere Pro.
- Web Basics: Familiarity with HTML and Content Management Systems (CMS).
- Analytical Mindset: Basic understanding of SEO, web analytics (Google Analytics), and social media metrics.
Why Apply for This Position
- Remote Flexibility: Work from your home country while contributing to high-level international projects.
- Financial Support: Unlike traditional unpaid UN internships, UNDP provides a monthly stipend (rate varies by location; for reference, 2025 rates were approx. $250–$300 equivalent in local currency).
- Networking: Gain first-hand exposure to the UN system and build a professional network within the global development sector.
- Career Catalyst: This role builds a “portfolio” of work that is highly regarded by international NGOs, government agencies, and private sector CSR departments.
Application Tips & Insights
- The “One PDF” Rule: UNDP’s application system often only allows one upload. Merge your CV and Cover Letter into a single PDF document.
- Quantify Your Presence: If you have managed a social media account or blog, include specific stats (e.g., “Increased Instagram engagement by 20% over 6 months”).
- Focus on “Soft Skills”: Remote work requires high levels of reliability and proactive communication. Use your cover letter to describe how you manage deadlines without direct supervision.
Additional Information
- Duration: Minimum 6 weeks, maximum 6 months.
- Stipend: Paid monthly; amount is subject to the 2026 review and depends on your home-based location.
- Insurance: Interns must provide proof of medical and life/accident insurance valid for the duration of the contract.
- Equipment: For remote roles, you must provide your own laptop and stable internet connection.
How to Apply
- Visit the Vacancy: Go to the UNDP Jobs Portal and search for “Communications and Knowledge Management Intern.”
- Submit Documentation: Provide a CV and a Cover Letter detailing your interest in SDG 16 and digital communications.
- Interview/Test: Shortlisted candidates may be asked to complete a practical exercise (e.g., drafting a sample social media post or a brief newsletter article).
- Deadline: Deadlines vary by specific regional posting, but current 2026 cycles typically close in late February or early March.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I get a permanent job at UNDP after the internship? A: Interns are not eligible to apply for UNDP staff positions during the internship. However, the experience significantly enhances your eligibility for future Junior Professional Officer (JPO) or UN Volunteer (UNV) roles.
Q2: Are remote interns required to work specific hours? A: Usually, yes. You will need to align your working hours with the regional hub you support (e.g., Istanbul, Bangkok, or New York) for at least 4–6 hours of the workday.
Q3: Do I need a specific GPA? A: While there is no hard “cutoff,” UNDP is highly competitive. An 80% (First Class) average or equivalent is generally expected for successful applicants.
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