About the opportunity
Under the supervision of the Foresight and Development Results Adviser and in close collaboration with the Foresight Analyst, the intern supports the institutionalization of foresight initiatives across UNFPA in line with its Strategic Plan 2026–2029. Key responsibilities include supporting Futures Trend Analysis (FTA) for Country Offices, coordinating United Nations Country Team (UNCT) strategic foresight exercises, operationalizing foresight training programs, facilitating webinars and workshops, creating toolkits and guidance materials, and documenting lessons learned. The position also involves applying and evaluating AI-assisted tools for horizon scanning, weak signal classification, and scenario development.
Salary and benefits
- UNFPA provides a stipend to help cover basic daily expenses for interns who are not financially supported by another institution or scholarship programme.
- The stipend amount varies according to the duty station and internship modality.
- Gain hands-on experience applying strategic foresight methodologies, AI-assisted tools, weak signal identification, and scenario planning within an international development organization.
- Opportunity to work closely with UNFPA Headquarters, Regional Offices, Country Offices, and United Nations Country Teams.
Who can apply?
- Enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor's or Master's degree program, or graduated within the past 12 months.
- Relevant field of study includes Futures Studies, International Development, Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Demography, Development Studies, Data Science, International Relations, or related disciplines.
- Demonstrated interest in strategic foresight, futures thinking, scenario planning, systems thinking, or strategic planning.
- Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with experience conducting literature reviews and synthesizing complex information.
- Familiarity with qualitative research methods and data analysis is desirable.
- Fluency in English is required; knowledge of another UN language is an asset.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications; experience with AI tools, visualization, or collaboration tools is an advantage.
- Must have valid medical insurance covering the full duration of the internship.
Required documents
- Resume (CV)
- Cover letter
- Proof of valid medical insurance (required prior to starting the internship)
When to apply
- Application Deadline: 31 August 2026 at 17:00 (America/New_York time).
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
How to apply
- Prepare your resume (CV) and cover letter.
- Combine both documents into a single PDF file.
- Email the single PDF to whe@unfpa.org with the subject line 'Application for Foresight Intern'.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by UNFPA for an interview.
Additional information
- Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya (Remote).
- Schedule: Full-time.
- Duration: 3 months starting September 2026, with possibility of extension.
- UNFPA does not pay a salary; financial support is provided as a stipend for eligible interns.
- UNFPA does not provide medical insurance for interns.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students in their final year or recent graduates within 12 months in fields like Futures Studies, International Development, or Data Science.
- Individuals with a demonstrated interest in strategic foresight, scenario planning, and AI-assisted research tools.
- Candidates with strong analytical and writing skills who are comfortable working in a remote, international development context.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is a 3-month internship that does not provide a salary, only a stipend for basic expenses.
- Interns must secure their own medical insurance, as it is not provided by the organization.
- The role is remote, requiring self-discipline and effective communication within a global team structure.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This internship is a strategic fit for those looking to gain hands-on experience in institutionalizing foresight initiatives within a major UN agency. It serves as a valuable bridge for early-career professionals aiming to build a portfolio in policy analysis, horizon scanning, and international development.
Our take
This is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to build specialized skills in foresight and futures thinking, provided they have the financial means to support themselves during the unpaid internship period.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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