UNDP People Programmes 2026: Internships, Graduate Programme, Fellowships, JPO and UN Volunteer Opportunities
Looking to launch your career with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)? Whether you are a student, recent graduate, young professional, or an experienced specialist seeking international development experience, the UNDP People Programmes provide a range of exciting pathways to join one of the world’s leading development organizations.
From paid internships and fellowships to the prestigious Graduate Programme, Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme, and United Nations Volunteers (UNV), UNDP offers opportunities to build valuable skills while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across more than 170 countries and territories.
If you’re passionate about international development, climate action, governance, poverty reduction, gender equality, innovation, or humanitarian work, these programmes could be the perfect starting point for your UN career.
About UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations’ global development agency, working with governments, communities, and partners to reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, build resilient institutions, promote environmental sustainability, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
UNDP recruits talented professionals from around the world who are committed to creating lasting, positive change.
UNDP People Programmes
UNDP’s People Programmes are designed to attract emerging talent from diverse backgrounds and provide meaningful career development opportunities.
Recruitment may occur through individual vacancy announcements or talent rosters depending on the programme.
1. UNDP Internships
The UNDP Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience working in international development.
Internships are available in:
- UNDP Headquarters
- Regional Hubs
- Country Offices
- Remote work arrangements (where applicable)
Who Can Apply?
Applicants should be:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s programme, or
- In the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, or
- A recent graduate (within one year of graduation)
Candidates should also demonstrate a strong interest in international development and share UNDP’s mission and values.
Internship Benefits
Successful interns receive:
- Monthly stipend
- Practical experience with UNDP teams
- Professional mentoring
- Exposure to global development projects
- International networking opportunities
Internships generally last up to six months, although placements completed for academic credit may extend up to nine months.
2. UNDP Fellowship Programme
The Fellowship Programme provides students, graduates, and mid-career professionals with the opportunity to work alongside UNDP experts on development initiatives worldwide.
Fellowships may be funded directly by UNDP or through partner institutions.
Fellowship Features
Participants receive:
- Assignment lasting up to 12 months
- Monthly stipend
- Professional development opportunities
- Hands-on experience in international development
- Exposure to UN programmes and operations
This programme is ideal for professionals seeking specialized experience within the UN system.
3. UNDP Graduate Programme
The highly competitive UNDP Graduate Programme is a two-year talent development initiative designed to prepare the next generation of development professionals.
It targets talented graduates from UNDP programme countries who have recently completed either a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
The programme combines structured learning, mentorship, and practical assignments while allowing participants to contribute directly to UNDP’s global mission.
Who Should Apply?
Applicants should:
- Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
- Come from a UNDP programme country
- Have a passion for international development
- Demonstrate leadership potential and strong analytical skills
UNDP particularly encourages applications from:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
- Indigenous peoples
- Minority groups
- First-generation university graduates
These efforts help strengthen diversity and inclusion across the organization.
4. Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme
The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme provides young professionals from donor countries with the opportunity to gain international experience within the United Nations.
JPO assignments are sponsored by participating governments and typically require:
- Citizenship of a participating donor country
- Relevant Master’s degree
- At least two years of professional experience
- Compliance with age and eligibility requirements established by the sponsoring government
JPO positions are advertised throughout the year.
5. United Nations Volunteers (UNV)
Another excellent pathway into UNDP is through the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme.
UN Volunteers support UNDP and other United Nations agencies by contributing their expertise to peacebuilding, humanitarian action, sustainable development, governance, environmental protection, and community resilience.
UN Volunteers receive:
- Volunteer Living Allowance
- Medical coverage
- Insurance
- Training opportunities
- International field experience
Although UN Volunteers are not salaried employees, they receive financial support to cover living expenses during their assignments.
Why Join UNDP?
Working with UNDP provides an opportunity to:
- Contribute to global sustainable development.
- Work alongside international experts.
- Gain practical experience within the UN system.
- Build a competitive international career.
- Develop leadership and technical skills.
- Expand your global professional network.
- Make a meaningful impact on communities worldwide.
UNDP values innovation, diversity, inclusion, integrity, and collaboration, making it one of the world’s most respected employers in international development.
Recruitment Process
Applications are submitted through the official UNDP Careers platform whenever vacancies are announced.
Depending on the programme, shortlisted candidates may be invited to:
- Written assessments
- Competency-based interviews
- Technical interviews
- Panel interviews
Selection processes vary according to the specific programme and position.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Stay Updated
New opportunities are released throughout the year, so interested applicants are encouraged to regularly monitor UNDP’s recruitment channels.
Following UNDP Careers on social media is also an excellent way to receive notifications about upcoming internship campaigns, graduate programme applications, fellowships, and volunteer opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are beginning your professional journey or looking to expand your experience in international development, the UNDP People Programmes offer exceptional opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
With pathways ranging from internships and fellowships to graduate development programmes, JPO assignments, and volunteer opportunities, there is a programme suited to every stage of your career.
If you aspire to work with the United Nations and make a lasting impact on sustainable development, now is the perfect time to start preparing your application and keeping an eye on upcoming recruitment campaigns.
Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Programmes Available:
- Internships
- Fellowships
- Graduate Programme
- Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme
- United Nations Volunteers (UNV)
Eligible Applicants: Students, recent graduates, young professionals, and experienced professionals (programme-specific requirements apply)
Location: Worldwide
Application Period: Opportunities are advertised throughout the year
Funding: Monthly stipend or volunteer allowance depending on the programme
UNDP People Programmes / UNDP People Programmes / UNDP People Programmes / UNDP People Programmes / UNDP People Programmes / UNDP People Programmes /
