United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Intern 2026 – Powerful Observatory | Opportunity in Geneva, Switzerland

Ivony ChigumiraAugust 14, 2026

3 15 3 minutes read

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is inviting applications for the Intern – Observatory position based in Geneva, Switzerland. This six-month, full-time, in-person internship offers students and recent graduates an exciting opportunity to gain practical experience supporting global disaster risk reduction initiatives and research.

Working within the Intergovernmental Processes, Interagency Cooperation and Partnerships Branch, the selected intern will contribute to research, data analysis, communications, and knowledge-sharing activities that support the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030.

Job Summary

Details	Information
Organization	United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
Position	Intern – Observatory
Location	Geneva, Switzerland
Job Type	Internship
Work Arrangement	Full-Time, In-Person
Duration	6 Months
Department	Intergovernmental Processes, Interagency Cooperation and Partnerships Branch
Application Deadline	7 August 2026

About UNDRR

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) serves as the UN’s focal point for coordinating global efforts to reduce disaster risks and strengthen resilience. Established in 1999, UNDRR works with governments, regional organizations, civil society, the private sector, and scientific communities to support disaster risk reduction worldwide.

The organization leads efforts to monitor and promote the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, helping countries build safer and more resilient communities.

About the Internship

The Intern – Observatory will support the Global Observatory on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Financing by assisting with research, data collection, communications, and knowledge management activities.

Working under the supervision of a Programme Management Officer, the intern will contribute to projects that improve understanding of disaster risk financing systems while supporting awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities

The successful intern will:

Support analysis of national disaster risk reduction financing systems.
Collect, organize, and manage research data.
Utilize Microsoft Copilot to support information gathering.
Develop communication materials and awareness content.
Create infographics, presentations, and short videos.
Produce data visualizations using Microsoft Power BI.
Prepare maps, graphs, dashboards, and summary tables.
Draft analytical briefs and background papers.
Assist in preparing reports and presentations.
Support meetings, workshops, and outreach activities.
Prepare meeting minutes and talking points.
Assist with knowledge-sharing initiatives and collaborative projects.

Also Read: UNICEF Internship Opportunities 2026 | Global Student & Graduate Internships

Eligibility Requirements

Education

Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

Be enrolled in a graduate degree programme (Master’s or equivalent).
Be enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree programme.
Have recently completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programme.

Applicants must provide proof of their academic status during the recruitment process.

Experience

Professional work experience is not required.

However, applicants should have:

Academic background related to the internship.
Interest in disaster risk reduction or international development.
Good computer skills.
Experience using Microsoft Office applications.

Knowledge of Microsoft Power BI or Microsoft Copilot is considered an advantage.

Required Skills

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

Strong research and analytical skills.
Data collection and organization abilities.
Report writing skills.
Presentation development.
Data visualization skills.
Communication and teamwork.
Organizational skills.
Attention to detail.
Ability to work in multicultural environments.
Knowledge of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Teams, and Power BI.

Language Requirements

Applicants should have:

Fluency in English.

Advantage:

Knowledge of another UN official language such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish.

Benefits

Interns will gain:

Practical experience within the United Nations.
Exposure to global disaster risk reduction initiatives.
Professional networking opportunities.
Experience working with international experts.
Research and analytical skills development.
Exposure to international policy and programme management.
Valuable experience supporting global development initiatives.

Please note: This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, visa, and living expenses.

Why You Should Apply

This internship offers an outstanding opportunity for students and recent graduates interested in disaster risk reduction, international development, public policy, and research. Participants will gain valuable experience contributing to global initiatives that strengthen resilience and reduce disaster risks worldwide.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for:

International Relations Students
Public Policy Students
Environmental Studies Students
Disaster Risk Reduction Students
Development Studies Students
Economics Students
Geography Students
Research Assistants
Data Analysts
Young Professionals interested in United Nations careers

Also Read: UNOPS Programme Management Intern 2026 | Elite Paid UN Internship in New York

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare:

Updated CV or Résumé
Cover Letter
Proof of Enrollment or Graduation
Academic Transcript
University Degree Certificate (if applicable)

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official United Nations Careers Portal before 7 August 2026. Ensure that all required documents are uploaded and all sections of the online application are completed before submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this internship paid?

No. The internship is unpaid.

Where is the internship located?

The internship is based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Is the internship remote?

No. It is a full-time, in-person internship.

How long is the internship?

The internship lasts for six months.

Who can apply?

Students in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, graduate students, and recent graduates who meet the eligibility requirements.

Final Thoughts

The Intern – Observatory 2026 opportunity with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) offers aspiring professionals a unique chance to gain hands-on experience supporting global disaster risk reduction efforts. If you are passionate about research, data analysis, international development, and building resilient communities, this internship can provide valuable exposure to the work of the United Nations while strengthening your professional skills.