UNDP Offers Paid Internships in Denmark for 2026

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering paid internship opportunities in Copenhagen, Denmark, for the period of February 2nd to July 31st, 2026. The six-month program is open to undergraduate, master's, and recent graduate students from all nationalities. Interns will receive a monthly stipend of $1000 (USD) to support their living expenses during the program.

Internship Details and Application

The UNDP internship program aims to provide practical experience in the field of international development. Applications are being accepted until October 31st, 2025. There is no application fee. The UNDP is actively seeking individuals with a strong command of English. Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered a plus.

Available Internship Positions The following internship positions are available at the UNDP Denmark office:

Business Operations Internship ICT Engineering Internship Software Developer Internship Green Energy Support Internship Cloud Service Engineering Internship ICT Architecture and Projects Internship IoT Operations Support Internship Business Development Support Internship Green Energy Civil/Structural Engineering Internship

Eligibility Criteria and Required Skills

To be eligible for the UNDP Internship Program, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program. Be in the final year of a bachelor's degree program. Have recently graduated (must begin the internship within one year of graduation). Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program where the internship is a required component.

Successful candidates will possess strong communication and organizational skills, be team players, and demonstrate problem-solving abilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, etc.) and other tools like SharePoint, Power BI, and Adobe Creative Suite is also required.

Application Requirements Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their online application:

Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae (CV)

The Value of Internships in International Development

Internships, particularly within organizations like the UNDP, offer invaluable opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience and contribute to global development initiatives. Dr. Anya Sharma, a professor of International Development at the University of Geneva, emphasizes the significance of such programs. "Internships provide a bridge between academic knowledge and real-world application," she explains. "They allow young professionals to develop critical skills, build networks, and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of international development challenges."

The UNDP, as a leading organization in the field, provides interns with exposure to a wide range of projects and initiatives, from poverty reduction and sustainable development to climate change and democratic governance. This experience can be a significant asset for individuals seeking careers in international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or government agencies.

A Historical Perspective on Internships and Skill Development

The concept of internships has evolved significantly over time. Historically, apprenticeships served as the primary means of skills development, particularly in trades and crafts. In more recent decades, formal internship programs have become increasingly common across various sectors, including international development. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of practical experience in preparing individuals for the workforce and addressing complex global challenges.

"The rise of internships in the development sector is a positive trend," notes Dr. David Lee, an independent consultant specializing in international education. "It signifies a move towards more experiential learning and a greater emphasis on developing practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. However, it's crucial to ensure that internships are structured in a way that provides meaningful learning opportunities and fair compensation for interns' contributions." The UNDP's provision of a monthly stipend is a positive step in this direction, helping to reduce financial barriers to participation and ensure that internships are accessible to a wider range of individuals.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates can apply for the UNDP Internship 2026 in Denmark through the UNDP's online application portal. Applicants should carefully review the specific requirements and responsibilities for each internship position before submitting their application. The deadline for applications is October 31st, 2025.