Programme Support – Public Policy Intern, Montreal, Canada

About Us

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.

At the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders agreed on a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. One of the key agreements adopted was the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The Convention establishes three main goals: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic resources. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) is located in Montreal, Canada, and is administered by UNEP.

Key Responsibilities

Working under the direct supervision of the Programme Management Officer, the Programme Support – Public Policy Intern will perform the following duties:

• Conduct comprehensive research and policy analysis of national environmental instruments, including National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets.
• Review and analyze COP decisions under each of the three Rio Conventions to identify emerging areas for enhanced cooperation and synergistic implementation.
• Draft analytical summaries, policy brief notes, and comparative matrices mapping convergence and policy gaps across international conventions.
• Provide administrative and technical support to the Joint Liaison Group (JLG) of the Rio Conventions, including preparing high-quality background documentation and meeting materials.
• Assist in drafting formal inputs for technical papers, UN reports, and policy presentations.
• Support the coordination and organization of international workshops, stakeholder consultations, and high-level side events.

Requirements & Qualifications

To qualify for this United Nations internship, applicants must meet one of the following academic criteria at the time of application:

• Be currently enrolled in a graduate school program (Master's or PhD).
• Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (Bachelor's level or equivalent).
• Have recently graduated with a university degree in environmental policy, international relations, sustainable development, environmental law, natural resource management, or a closely related field.

Key Skills & Language Competencies

• Technical Skills: Proficient in standard software applications (Microsoft Office Suite) and skilled in qualitative policy analysis and research methodologies.
• Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Working knowledge of another official UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is a strong asset.
• Core Values: Demonstrated interest in the United Nations mission, ability to work in a multicultural team environment, and a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: Unpaid (United Nations internships are not financially compensated).
• Expected Hours: Full-time (35–40 hours per week, Monday through Friday).
• Travel & Living Costs: All costs related to travel, visa processing, insurance, and accommodation are the responsibility of the intern or their sponsoring academic institution.
• Remote Work: Flexible options exist to conduct this internship onsite in Montreal, Canada, or fully remote.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through the official UN careers portal. Please note that the United Nations does not charge any application or recruitment fees at any stage of the hiring process.

Learn more about our team and mission on the NGO Jobspot homepage.

Quick Job FAQ

Is the UNEP Public Policy Internship in Montreal paid?

No, this United Nations internship is unpaid. Selected interns are responsible for all travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses during the three-month placement.

Can I perform this UNEP internship remotely?

Yes, this public policy internship offers flexible work arrangements. Candidates can complete their duties either onsite in Montreal, Canada, or fully remote.

What academic background is required for this role?

Applicants must be enrolled in or recently graduated from a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD program in environmental policy, international relations, or a related field.

When does the UNEP Public Policy Internship start?

The internship is scheduled to start on September 7, 2026. It typically lasts between three and six months, depending on organizational needs.