The UN Policy Advocacy Internship – New York is a unique professional opportunity for students and recent graduates who are passionate about global policy, humanitarian work, and child-focused advocacy. World Vision International is currently recruiting a United Nations Policy Advocacy & External Engagement Intern to support its work at the heart of global decision-making in New York City.
This in-person internship offers hands-on exposure to international diplomacy and policy advocacy within the United Nations system. It is designed for individuals who want to gain real-world experience influencing global policies that impact children and vulnerable communities worldwide.
Internship Overview
- Position: United Nations Policy Advocacy & External Engagement Intern
- Location: New York City (In-person)
- Internship Period: 1 June – 28 August
- Stipend: USD $800 per month (for U.S.-based interns)
- Requisition ID: JR47913
This internship runs throughout the summer and requires a commitment of at least 24 hours per week, making it ideal for students or recent graduates seeking meaningful professional experience during the academic break.
About the Role
As a UN Policy Advocacy & External Engagement Intern, you will support World Vision International’s advocacy efforts at the United Nations. The role provides direct exposure to how global policies are shaped and how civil society organizations engage with international institutions to influence decisions affecting millions of children worldwide.
Interns will work closely with experienced policy and advocacy professionals, contributing to research, analysis, and engagement activities linked to major UN processes and high-level events.
Key Responsibilities
During the internship, successful candidates will be involved in a wide range of impactful activities, including:
- Monitoring proceedings of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) and the UN Security Council
- Researching and analyzing global policy discussions relevant to children and humanitarian issues
- Drafting policy briefs, advocacy notes, and background materials
- Supporting planning and coordination for UNGA 2026 and other high-level UN events
- Engaging with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), UN agencies, and policy partners
- Contributing to World Vision’s child-focused global advocacy initiatives
This hands-on experience allows interns to develop strong research, writing, and policy analysis skills while gaining insight into multilateral diplomacy.
Thematic Focus Areas
The internship focuses on critical global development and humanitarian priorities, including:
- Child well-being and child protection
- Nutrition and hunger reduction
- Human rights and humanitarian response
- Financing for development and global aid policy
Interns will support advocacy strategies aimed at ensuring children’s needs remain central to international policy discussions and funding decisions.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
World Vision International encourages applications from motivated individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Undergraduate or graduate students, or recent graduates (within the last two years)
- Academic background in International Affairs, Social Sciences, Political Science, Communications, or related fields
- Legal authorization to work in the United States
- Availability to commit a minimum of 24 hours per week for the duration of the internship
- Strong interest in global policy, advocacy, and humanitarian issues
- Alignment with Christian values, which underpin World Vision’s mission and work
Prior experience in policy research, advocacy, or international development is an advantage but not mandatory.
Why Apply for This Internship?
This internship offers a rare opportunity to gain direct experience at the United Nations while working with a globally respected humanitarian organization. Interns will build professional networks, enhance their understanding of international policy processes, and strengthen their career prospects in global development, diplomacy, and advocacy.
In addition to the monthly stipend, interns gain invaluable exposure to high-level policy discussions and real-world advocacy work that can shape future careers in international organizations, NGOs, and public policy institutions.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online through the official World Vision International careers portal using the link below:
Early application is encouraged, as competitive internships based in New York often attract a high volume of applicants.
If you are passionate about global justice, child advocacy, and influencing international policy, the UN Policy Advocacy Internship with World Vision International is an excellent step toward a meaningful global career.