Introduction
For students and recent graduates who want to turn academic knowledge into real-world humanitarian impact, the UNRWA Internship Programme for 2026 offers a powerful and career-shaping opportunity. Internships at United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) allow young professionals to work directly within the UN system while contributing to meaningful development and humanitarian missions that support millions of people.
At a time when humanitarian challenges are growing in scale and complexity, UNRWA continues to play a critical role in providing education, healthcare, social services, protection, and emergency assistance to Palestine refugees across its areas of operation. Interns are not observers—they are active contributors who support day-to-day operations, policy work, analysis, and programme delivery across multiple departments.
What makes the UNRWA internship experience stand out is its breadth of exposure. Interns work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment, gain insight into UN operational processes, and develop practical skills that are highly valued across international organizations, NGOs, and development institutions. With opportunities available at headquarters, field offices, and representation offices—including in-person, remote, and hybrid options—this programme is accessible to a diverse global pool of applicants.
This article, written from the perspective of an independent global opportunities curator, provides a comprehensive, SEO-optimized overview of the UNRWA Internship Programme 2026, covering responsibilities, eligibility, learning outcomes, work arrangements, application tips, and frequently asked questions.
UNRWA Internship Programme 2026: Launch Your Humanitarian Career with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency
Background & Internship Description
About UNRWA
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency was established by the United Nations to provide assistance, protection, and advocacy for Palestine refugees. UNRWA delivers essential services in areas such as:
- Education
- Health care
- Social services
- Protection
- Camp improvement
- Emergency response
The Agency operates across several locations, including Amman (Headquarters), field offices in Jordan, Lebanon, and the West Bank, as well as representation offices in New York, Brussels, and Washington, D.C..
Purpose of the Internship Programme
The UNRWA Internship Programme is designed to:
- Provide hands-on UN system experience to students and recent graduates
- Allow interns to apply academic learning in practical humanitarian settings
- Build early-career capacity in international development and humanitarian action
- Expose participants to UN values, ethics, and operational standards
Interns work alongside experienced UN professionals and are integrated into real projects that support UNRWA’s mandate.
Key Responsibilities
Intern responsibilities vary by department and duty station, but typically include:
- Programme & Operational Support
- Assisting with planning, implementation, and monitoring activities
- Supporting internal coordination and documentation
- Research, Analysis & Reporting
- Contributing to reports, briefings, and background notes
- Supporting data collection and basic quantitative or qualitative analysis
- Communications & Advocacy
- Assisting with communication materials, presentations, and outreach
- Supporting advocacy or external relations activities
- Administrative & Institutional Support
- Supporting meetings, record-keeping, and workflow processes
- Assisting teams with day-to-day operational tasks
Interns may be placed in departments such as education, health, social work, protection, legal affairs, external relations, finance, or human resources, depending on background and organizational needs.
Qualifications
Education & Eligibility
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in or have completed within the last 12 months:
- A graduate degree programme (Master’s level or higher), or
- The final year of a first university degree (Bachelor’s level or equivalent)
Language Requirements
- Working knowledge of English is required
- Knowledge of one or more additional UN working languages is an advantage:
- Arabic
- French
- Spanish
- Russian
- Chinese
Experience
- No prior work experience is required
- Academic training, coursework, volunteering, or relevant skills should demonstrate your ability to contribute meaningfully during the internship
What You Will Learn & Gain
UNRWA internships are widely regarded as intensive learning experiences.
Interns typically gain:
- Practical exposure to humanitarian and development operations
- Skills in report writing, analysis, coordination, and communication
- Understanding of UN institutional structures and decision-making
- Experience working in multicultural, international teams
- Enhanced professional confidence and global perspective
The environment is fast-paced and intellectually stimulating, offering significant learning in a relatively short time.
Duration & Work Arrangements
- Internship Duration:
- Minimum: 6 weeks
- Maximum: 11 months
- Workload Options:
- Full-time: 35–40 hours per week
- Part-time options may be available
- Work Modality:
- On-site
- Remote
- Hybrid (subject to task requirements and supervisor agreement)
Compensation & Financial Considerations
- This is an unpaid internship
- UNRWA does not cover:
- Travel
- Visas
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
However, some interns may be supported through:
- Government internship grants
- University or institutional scholarships
- External sponsorship programmes
Why Apply for a UNRWA Internship
UN System Exposure
Interns gain direct insight into how a major UN humanitarian agency operates on the ground and globally.
Strong Career Foundation
UNRWA internship experience strengthens applications for:
- UN internships and entry-level roles
- NGO and humanitarian careers
- Graduate studies in international development or public policy
Meaningful Humanitarian Impact
Interns contribute to programmes that directly affect refugee communities, making the experience deeply purpose-driven.
Flexible Work Options
Remote and hybrid arrangements increase accessibility for international applicants.
Application Tips & Insights
How to Strengthen Your Application
- Clearly explain your motivation for humanitarian work
- Highlight relevant coursework, volunteering, or research
- Demonstrate adaptability, teamwork, and analytical thinking
- Show alignment with UN values and humanitarian principles
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting generic applications
- Ignoring eligibility timelines (12-month graduation rule)
- Under-explaining how your skills benefit UNRWA
How to Apply
Internship vacancies are published through the UN recruitment system.
Applicants are advised to:
- Review internship job descriptions carefully
- Prepare a tailored application aligned with the specific department
- Follow the UN application process step by step
A short instructional video is usually available to guide applicants through the application system and provide insight into the work environment at UNRWA Headquarters in Amman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior work experience?
No. Relevant education and skills are sufficient.
Is the internship paid?
No. The internship is unpaid.
Are remote internships possible?
Yes, depending on the role and supervisor agreement.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. UNRWA internships are open to eligible applicants of all nationalities.
How long can the internship last?
Between 6 weeks and 11 months.
Additional Information
- Organization: United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)
- Programme Type: Internship
- Locations: Headquarters, Field Offices, and Representation Offices
- Commitment: Diversity, inclusion, and zero tolerance for misconduct
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