If you are passionate about global development, environmental sustainability, and ensuring accountability within large international organizations, the UNDP Social and Environmental Compliance Unit (SECU) Internship 2026 offers a transformational opportunity. This six-month, full-time internship at the United Nations Development Programme headquarters in New York, USA, allows young professionals and students to immerse themselves in the world of compliance, safeguards, and responsible development practices on a global scale.
The SECU internship provides a rare chance to gain hands-on experience within the UN system—specifically in the governance mechanisms that ensure UNDP-funded projects uphold the highest social and environmental standards. It is ideal for those pursuing careers in international development, public policy, law, sustainability, human rights, environmental science, conflict management, and global governance.
What is SECU?
The Social and Environmental Compliance Unit (SECU) is part of UNDP’s independent accountability mechanism. It reviews concerns raised by individuals, communities, or stakeholders who believe that a UNDP-supported project has not adequately followed the organization’s Social and Environmental Standards (SES). SECU serves as a safeguard to ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible implementation of UNDP’s mission around the world.
As an intern, you will be joining a team dedicated to integrity, fairness, and ethical development. You will learn how global organizations assess risk, conduct investigations, and protect community rights while supporting sustainable growth.
Internship Responsibilities
During the 6-month placement, interns at SECU typically engage in a broad spectrum of activities designed to provide meaningful exposure to compliance operations. Responsibilities may include:
1. Assisting with Compliance Reviews
You may support the review of complaints submitted to SECU, helping analyze documentation, identify potential safeguard issues, and summarize key findings. This provides vital experience in investigative processes, risk assessment, and due diligence.
2. Research & Analytical Support
Interns often assist in conducting research on environmental and social safeguard systems, global best practices, complaint-handling mechanisms, and emerging compliance challenges. This research helps SECU strengthen its global standards and improve its methodologies.
3. Documentation, Reporting & Knowledge Management
You may contribute to drafting reports, preparing briefing notes, updating case management systems, and organizing internal knowledge resources. This builds strong skills in writing, data organization, and professional communication.
4. AI-Driven Governance Projects
A unique aspect of the internship includes supporting innovations in AI-assisted complaint analysis, automation of data processes, and improvements to knowledge retrieval systems. Interns who are comfortable with digital tools, analytics, or AI ethics will find this especially rewarding.
5. Cross-Team Collaboration
Interns work with colleagues from different departments, interact with international teams, and contribute to discussions on global operational improvements. This provides broad exposure to how large development organizations coordinate across regions and functions.
6. Engagement With Stakeholder Communities
Depending on ongoing cases, interns may help track community concerns, review stakeholder feedback, and observe how UNDP engages with local groups to resolve environmental or social issues ethically and responsibly.
Qualifications & Who Should Apply
The UNDP SECU Internship is open to applicants from any nationality who meet the UN’s general internship conditions. Candidates typically include:
Academic Background
Applicants are usually pursuing or have recently completed degrees in fields such as:
- International Development
- Environmental Studies / Environmental Law
- Public Policy / Public Administration
- Human Rights or Social Sciences
- Law / Compliance / Governance
- International Relations
- Sustainability or Climate Studies
- Data Science or AI (for technical innovation tasks)
Skills & Competencies
Strong applicants generally demonstrate:
- Excellent writing, research, and analytical skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Commitment to ethics, integrity, and accountability
- Understanding of global sustainability issues
- Cross-cultural communication abilities
- Interest in compliance, investigations, or safeguard systems
- Familiarity with digital tools, data analysis, or AI (optional but valuable)
Personal Attributes
UNDP looks for individuals who are collaborative, adaptable, curious, and passionate about global impact. A genuine commitment to UN values—respect, diversity, inclusion, and human dignity—is essential.
Stipend & Duration
The internship is full-time for 6 months, based in New York.
UNDP internships typically come with a monthly stipend to help offset living costs, although the exact amount may vary depending on UNDP policies at the time of the internship. Interns are expected to work regular office hours and may participate in UN events, workshops, and training sessions taking place throughout the internship.
Key Benefits of the SECU Internship
This internship offers a uniquely impactful experience for emerging professionals:
Valuable Experience in Global Governance and Compliance
You will gain firsthand exposure to how the UN ensures accountability in international development operations.
In-Depth Understanding of Social and Environmental Safeguard Systems
Learn how major development institutions evaluate risks, protect communities, and safeguard ecosystems around the world.
Opportunities to Contribute to Meaningful Investigations
Your work may directly support the resolution of complex development challenges, giving you a sense of purpose and contribution.
Practical Skills in Research, Analysis, and Reporting
You will develop strong documentation, investigation, and communication skills—highly prized in global development careers.
Engagement With AI-Driven Governance Innovations
You can participate in forward-thinking digital transformation initiatives that strengthen UNDP’s operational efficiency.
A Diverse, Inclusive & Values-Driven Work Environment
UNDP brings together people from different cultures, disciplines, and regions, fostering a supportive environment grounded in equality and respect.
Career Advancement
Experience at UNDP is highly regarded across international organizations, NGOs, academic institutions, and government agencies.
Application Timeline
- Posting Date: 17 November 2025
- Deadline: 28 November 2025
How to Apply
Applications are typically submitted through the official UNDP careers portal. Candidates must prepare:
- A well-crafted CV
- A tailored cover letter
- Academic transcripts (if required)
- Writing samples (optional but helpful)
Early preparation is recommended due to high competition.
Why This Internship Matters
The SECU Internship 2026 is more than just a professional opportunity—it’s a platform to contribute to global accountability and safeguard the rights of communities affected by development projects. It allows you to play a role in protecting the environment, improving governance, and ensuring that development is ethical, transparent, and people-centered.
If you aspire to shape international policy, support sustainability, or help improve global institutions from the inside, this internship may be the ideal next step in your journey.