UNICEF is inviting applications for its Public Partnerships Division (PPD) Internship based in Brussels, Belgium, for the November 2025 – May 2026 cycle. This six-month, full-time, on-site internship offers two outstanding candidates the opportunity to work at the heart of UNICEF’s European Partnerships Office and gain hands-on experience in global advocacy, humanitarian policy, and partnership development with the European Union.
About UNICEF and the PPD Internship
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, advocating for children’s rights, protecting the most vulnerable, and helping every child reach their full potential. The Public Partnerships Division (PPD) plays a key role in strengthening UNICEF’s relationships with governments and public institutions to advance children’s rights and mobilize resources for global development and humanitarian efforts.
The European Partnerships Office in Brussels manages UNICEF’s collaboration with EU institutions and Member States, ensuring children’s rights are prioritized in European Union policies, legislation, and international programs. The internship provides a unique opportunity for young professionals to contribute to UNICEF’s advocacy efforts and gain insight into multilateral cooperation at the EU level.
Key Responsibilities
Selected interns will support the EU Institutions Section in one of three thematic areas: development and humanitarian affairs, policy and advocacy, or communications and partnership development. Under supervision, interns will engage in a variety of meaningful activities, including:
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- Monitoring EU policy developments, trends, and funding related to humanitarian and development programs.
- Drafting analytical briefs and supporting UNICEF staff with policy analysis.
- Assisting in partnership development in thematic areas such as health, nutrition, education, migration, and official development assistance (ODA).
- Helping organize high-level events, EU-UNICEF meetings, and webinars, including preparing background materials and taking minutes.
- Maintaining and updating knowledge management tools within UNICEF systems to ensure data accuracy and accessibility.
- Supporting advocacy and communication initiatives aimed at promoting children’s rights within EU institutions.
- Collecting and analyzing data related to UNICEF’s global priorities.
This internship provides exposure to complex EU processes, international policy-making, and humanitarian coordination—ideal for candidates seeking to build a career in international development or diplomacy.
Who Can Apply
UNICEF welcomes applications from recent graduates or students with advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) in international relations, political science, human rights, international finance and economics, development studies, or humanitarian aid. Candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have graduated within the past two years or be near completion of their degree.
- Provide a transcript showing excellent academic performance and one signed letter of recommendation on official letterhead.
- Be eligible to reside in Belgium for the full internship duration.
- Have no immediate relatives working with UNICEF or within the reporting structure.
Additional qualifications include strong writing, research, and analytical abilities; familiarity with EU institutions; and a clear interest in child rights and international development. Proficiency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of French or another EU language is a strong asset.
Working Conditions and Benefits
The internship is a six-month, full-time, on-site position beginning on 24 November 2025. Interns will work from UNICEF’s Brussels office and attend meetings with EU institutions. The organization will provide a monthly stipend to cover transportation and meal expenses.
Interns will benefit from ongoing mentorship, supervision, and capacity-building opportunities. A personalized learning and development plan will be created to enhance the intern’s understanding of EU policy-making, UNICEF operations, and advocacy for children’s rights.
Please note that UNICEF does not provide visa assistance or health insurance. Candidates must secure valid health coverage before starting and be legally authorized to live in Belgium for the internship period.
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Commitment to Inclusion and Ethics
UNICEF strongly upholds diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds—including individuals with disabilities—to apply. The organization enforces a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, including sexual exploitation, harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will undergo comprehensive background and reference checks.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through UNICEF’s official recruitment platform. Interested candidates should complete the online application form and upload all required documents before the deadline on 21 October 2025. Email applications will not be accepted.
This internship represents a unique chance to engage in international policy-making while contributing to global advocacy for children’s rights within one of the world’s most respected humanitarian organizations.
Official Application Link: https://jobs.unicef.org/en-us/job/579900/internship-public-partnerships-division-ppd-brussels-belgium-6-months-onsite-2-candidates-needed
