Discover the UNDP SECU Internship 2026 in New York. Learn about responsibilities, qualifications, stipend details, and how to apply for this 6-month full-time internship supporting global compliance and environmental standards.
Based in New York City, this role is ideal for individuals passionate about advancing social and environmental standards, promoting accountability, and supporting development projects worldwide.
About SECU and Its Mission
The Social and Environmental Compliance Unit (SECU) is responsible for ensuring that UNDP projects comply with the organization’s Social and Environmental Standards (SES). These standards help avoid or mitigate harm to communities and ecosystems while promoting positive development outcomes.
When complaints arise alleging violations of SES commitments, SECU conducts compliance reviews, investigates the claims, and recommends corrective actions where necessary. As part of the Office of Audit and Investigations, SECU contributes to transparency, accountability, and responsible development practices.
The intern will support a range of research, communication, and administrative activities essential to the unit’s work.
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Key Responsibilities
Under the guidance of the SECU Head of Unit, the intern will assist with tasks such as:
Research and Analysis
- Conducting policy and factual research
- Assisting in identifying, gathering, and analyzing evidence
- Supporting the documentation and processing of compliance-related complaints
- Drafting, editing, and formatting reports and technical documents
Communications and Outreach
- Assisting with social media outreach and awareness campaigns
- Supporting traditional media and public communication activities
- Preparing visual, written, and multimedia content for SECU publications
- Providing translations and quality control if multilingual
Event & Logistics Support
- Coordinating conferences, meetings, and presentations
- Providing logistical support during events attended or organized by SECU
- Supporting administrative and operational tasks as needed
AI and Innovation
- Assisting with SECU’s ongoing exploration of AI tools for:
- Data analysis
- Information management
- Process automation
- Workflow optimization
This internship will expose the selected candidate to the inner workings of compliance, environmental and social safeguards, and UN governance practices.
Required Qualifications
Education
Applicants must be currently enrolled in, or have recently graduated (within one year) from, a program related to:
- International Development
- Public Policy
- Human Rights
- Environmental Law
- Communications
- International Affairs
- Or other closely related fields
Skills and Competencies
- Strong research, writing, and editing abilities
- Excellent communication and time management skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Knowledge of social media platforms
- Familiarity with AI tools for data analysis and information management
- Graphic design or video-editing skills are an advantage
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English (written & spoken) is required
- Arabic or French fluency is highly desirable
- Additional languages are considered assets
Internship Duration and Stipend
- Location: UNDP Headquarters, New York
- Duration: 6 months
- Start Date: January/February 2026
- Schedule: Full-time (with possible part-time options)
- Stipend: USD 1,000 per month for full-time interns
- Travel, accommodation, and living expenses must be covered by the intern
- Applicants who are children or siblings of UNDP staff are not eligible
Selected applicants will undergo a written exam, an interview, and background checks.
Why You Should Apply
This UNDP internship offers:
- Valuable experience in global governance and compliance
- Exposure to social and environmental safeguard systems
- Opportunities to contribute to meaningful investigations and research
- Hands-on experience in international development practices
- A chance to support innovative AI-driven improvements to UN operations
- A diverse, inclusive, and values-driven work environment
UNDP strongly encourages applicants from marginalized and underrepresented communities in line with its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Application Timeline
- Posting Date: 17 November 2025
- Deadline: 28 November 2025
Conclusion
The UNDP SECU Internship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for emerging professionals eager to advance their careers in international development, human rights, sustainability, and compliance. With exposure to policy work, environmental standards, AI-driven innovation, and global governance, this internship is an excellent stepping stone toward a meaningful career within the UN system.
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