United Nations University (UNU) Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Global Fellow Internship 2025–2026
- Omran Aburayya
- Sep 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 14
If you are a motivated graduate student or recent postgraduate looking to build hands-on experience in peace and security, the United Nations University (UNU) Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Global Fellow Internship is an excellent opportunity. Hosted at the UNU Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) in New York, this six-month internship provides research, policy, and project support within the Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Pillar. The program offers an enriching platform for young professionals eager to gain practical insights into conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and international policymaking. Here's everything you need to know.
🎓 Internship Summary
Location: New York, United States (with limited remote work possible)
Host: United Nations University – Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR)
Internship Level: Master’s students or recent graduates (within 2 years)
Target Group: International students and young professionals in relevant fields
Fields of Focus: International Affairs, Public Policy, Political Science, Security Studies, Peace & Conflict Studies, International Law, Development Economics, and related fields
Stipend: Approx. USD 1,000/month (if no other funding is provided)
Duration: Up to 6 months
Application Deadline: September 17, 2025 (12 pm New York time)
Start Date: October 2025
Eligible To: Master’s students currently enrolled or recent graduates worldwide
🌐 Internship Overview
The UNU-CPR Global Fellow Internship is designed to provide practical exposure to policy-relevant research and initiatives within the UN system. Interns work under the Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Pillar, engaging with projects related to:
Conflict in borderlands and fragile regions
UN peace operations and reforms
Peacebuilding and state institution strengthening
Sanctions and international law
Counter-trafficking, smuggling, and organized crime
Security Council and General Assembly peace and security initiatives
Interns will also support research briefings, report drafting, policy communication, and event organization, contributing directly to UNU’s mission of advancing peace, security, and sustainable development.
🎁 Internship Benefits
Monthly stipend (USD 1,000 for New York duty station) if not funded by another institution
Professional exposure to UN peace and security processes
Networking opportunities with UN officials, policymakers, and international researchers
Experience in high-level policy research, project coordination, and report development
Access to UNU and UN resources, including seminars and expert dialogues
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UNU Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Global Fellow Internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Education:
Master’s degree (completed within the last 2 years) OR currently enrolled in a Master’s program in International Affairs, Public Policy, International Law, Political Science, Security Studies, Development Economics, or related fields.
Skills & Experience:
Prior experience in policy-relevant or peace/conflict-related research.
Advantage: Legal research, tracking UN deliberations, financial flows of armed groups, or field interview-based methodologies.
Proficiency in MS Office (Excel highly desirable).
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Languages:
Excellent English required.
Fluency in French and/or Spanish highly desirable.
Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.
Other:
Must provide proof of valid health and life insurance for the internship period.
Commitment to UNU’s values of inclusion, integrity, and respect for diversity.
📝 Application Procedure
Interested candidates should apply via the official UNU-CPR application portal. The application requires:
Cover Letter – detailing motivation and qualifications.
Curriculum Vitae (CV/P11 form) – in English.
Responses to tailored application questions.
Supporting Documents – proof of enrollment or degree completion, and proof of insurance (required upon selection).
📆 Important Dates
Application Deadline: September 17, 2025 (12:00 pm, New York time)
Start Date: October 2025
Duration: 6 months (full-time, with possible flexibility)
🚀 Conclusion
The UNU Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Global Fellow Internship is a unique stepping stone for young professionals aiming to enter the peace and security field. With exposure to real UN policy processes, interdisciplinary research, and international networks, this internship provides valuable experience that can shape future careers in diplomacy, research, or global governance.
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline and prepare strong applications that demonstrate their research skills, commitment to peacebuilding, and passion for multilateral cooperation.
