Legal Internship at UNESCO: Enhance Your Skills in International Law
Legal Internship at UNESCO: Enhance Your Skills in International Law
UNESCO Internship Programme: Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs
Overview
Duty Station: Headquarters
Type of Contract: Internship
Duration of Contract: 1 to 6 months
Recruitment Open to: External Candidates
Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time): 31 December 2025
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
Legal Internship at UNESCO: Enhance Your Skills in International Law
Introduction
The Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs (LA) at UNESCO offers a unique opportunity for highly motivated graduate students to gain professional experience in international law within an international organization. This internship provides a platform to discover the various aspects of legal work in a specialized United Nations agency.
Under the overall authority of the Director of the Office of Legal Standards and International Affairs (DIR/LA), interns will work under the supervision of the head of one of the three LA sections. The office’s structure and missions are available at: UNESCO Legal Affairs.
Tasks and Responsibilities
Interns at the Office of Legal Standards and International Affairs are expected to assist in a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to:
- Legal Research
- Conducting in-depth legal research on issues related to international law, including international civil service law, privileges and immunities, law of international organizations, contract law, and other specialized areas. The research often involves complex and sensitive subjects.
- Preparation of Legal Advice
- Assisting in the preparation of legal advice on institutional matters and issues that arise during the execution of the Organization’s programs. This includes the conclusion or amendment of contracts, addressing difficulties encountered in ensuring satisfactory execution, and exploring potential remedies.
- Preparation for Meetings
- Assisting in the preparation of meetings for UNESCO’s governing bodies and the statutory organs of conventions adopted under UNESCO’s auspices.
- Administrative Law Matters
- Providing legal advice on administrative law matters such as policies, agreements, issues related to the Medical Benefits Fund, UNESCO Staff Savings & Loan Services, etc. Interns will review appeals against administrative decisions and assist in drafting submissions for the Appeals Board and the Administrative Tribunal of the International Labour Organization.
- Participation in Conferences and Meetings
- Attending various conferences and meetings to gain practical exposure to the workings of an international legal office.
Learning Objectives
The internship is designed to:
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of the functioning of the Legal Office of an international organization.
- Strengthen legal skills across various areas of international law.
- Enhance teamwork skills in an international setting.
- Offer insights into UNESCO’s structure, mandate, and operations.
- Provide practical experience in the elaboration, negotiation, and implementation of standard-setting instruments under UNESCO’s auspices.
Competencies
Interns are expected to demonstrate the following core competencies:
- Accountability
- Communication
- Innovation
- Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
- Planning and Organizing
- Results Focus
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
For detailed information, refer to the UNESCO Competency Framework.
Required Qualifications
To be eligible for the internship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age: At least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent).
- Recently graduated with a Master’s degree or PhD (within the last 12 months).
- Languages: Excellent command of English or French, with a working knowledge of the other language being an asset.
- Computer Skills: Proficiency in computer systems and office-related software.
- Team Player: Ability to work well in a team and adapt to an international working environment.
- Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Benefits and Entitlements
- Remuneration: UNESCO does not remunerate interns. There is no financial compensation for internship assignments.
- Leave Entitlement: Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship.
Selection and Recruitment Process
The UNESCO Internship Programme is open in January and July each year. Candidates must apply to vacancies that match their expertise and domain. Applications are reviewed, and successful candidates are placed in an intern talent pool for six months. Selected candidates will be contacted directly by the relevant hiring manager. Those not selected must reapply when new vacancies are released.
Application Tips
- Prepare a motivation letter and resume before starting the application process.
- Ensure contact details are valid for the next six months.
- Applications must be submitted in English or French.
- Provide unofficial translations of documents if not in English or French.
Important Reminders
- Interns do not have staff member status and cannot represent UNESCO in any official capacity.
- Interns are not eligible for non-staff positions within UNESCO for three months following the internship.
- The application process is competitive, and placement is not guaranteed.
Conclusion
An internship with the Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs at UNESCO offers a unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience in international law and the operations of an international organization. This program is ideal for graduate students eager to apply their legal knowledge and skills in a practical, globally impactful environment.
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