About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve food security for all. The Internship Programme aims to attract talented young individuals who are strongly motivated to share their perspectives, innovative ideas, and latest academic experience in FAO’s domains. The programme provides a learning opportunity to supplement academic knowledge with practical work assignments related to FAO’s mission of transforming agri-food systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life, leaving no one behind.
Salary and benefits
- Monthly stipend provided to interns if they are not sponsored by sending universities or other entities
- Practical work assignment and professional mentoring within an international multicultural environment
- Opportunity to contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework
Who can apply?
- Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme in a recognized educational institution at the time of application, or be a recent graduate
- Must specialize in a field relevant to the mission and work of FAO
- Aged between 21 and 30 years old
- Working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset
- Must be nationals of FAO Member countries
- Must have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining
- Candidates who have already undertaken an internship assignment at FAO are not eligible
- Candidates with family members (mother, father, sister, or brother) employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Evidence of attendance in a recognized university or copy of academic qualifications
- Completed online profile including employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
When to apply
- Call opened on 21 September 2026
- Application deadline is 31 December 2026, 10:59 PM UTC
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal and complete your online profile with accurate details regarding employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Attach your letter of motivation and evidence of university attendance or academic qualifications
- Submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal before the deadline
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented members, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are also encouraged to apply.
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…
- An ideal match for current undergraduate/graduate students or recent graduates eager to gain direct United Nations experience in Latin America and the Caribbean.
- A strong fit for individuals specializing in agriculture, economics, environmental science, or related fields who want to contribute to global food security.
- Well-suited for young professionals looking to build multicultural competencies and expand their international professional network.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants must carefully verify their eligibility based on the strict age limit (21–30 years) and nationality requirements.
- Selected candidates are responsible for securing appropriate residence or immigration status in the assigned country prior to joining.
- Duration ranges from 3 to 11 months, requiring a significant commitment of time and availability.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This internship provides a foundational stepping stone for students and recent graduates aiming for careers in international development, UN agencies, or global agricultural policy by offering substantive hands-on experience and professional exposure.
Our take
Motivated students and recent graduates within the eligible age range who possess relevant academic backgrounds in FAO's fields of work should seriously consider applying before the deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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