Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Deadline: 1 January 2026
If you’re interested in global development, climate action, food security, agriculture, sustainability, or international policy, but don’t want an internship that requires relocation, visas, or money you don’t have, the FAO Virtual Internship Programme 2026 is one of the most practical UN opportunities you can apply for.
Unlike many UN internships that are location-bound and highly competitive, FAO’s virtual internships allow young people from developing countries, including Africa, to gain real UN experience remotely. The work is meaningful, policy-oriented, and directly connected to global challenges like hunger, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
This programme fits perfectly within The OP Hub’s mission:
If it’s hidden, underrated, or valuable — we find it.
What Is the FAO Virtual Internship Programme?
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) runs a structured internship programme designed to support students and recent graduates while strengthening FAO’s work across agriculture, nutrition, climate action, rural development, and food systems.
The virtual internship option allows interns to contribute remotely to FAO departments and country offices without needing to relocate to Rome or field offices.
Interns support FAO teams working on:
• food security and nutrition
• climate-smart agriculture
• sustainable rural development
• environmental policy
• data analysis and research
• communications and advocacy
• project coordination
• monitoring and evaluation
• policy writing and reporting
This is not a “shadowing” internship. Interns are assigned real tasks and are treated as part of the team.
Why This Internship Stands Out
Many students aim for UN internships but are blocked by:
• travel costs
• visa barriers
• unpaid placements
• relocation requirements
The FAO Virtual Internship removes most of these barriers.
Key reasons this opportunity stands out:
• Fully remote (no relocation required)
• Open to applicants globally
• Especially accessible to applicants from the Global South
• Strong alignment with climate, agriculture, and development careers
• Real exposure to UN systems and workflows
• Builds credibility for future UN, NGO, or policy roles
Because it’s not as heavily promoted as other UN internships, it also attracts fewer applicants than programs like UNDP or UNICEF.
Who Should Apply?
This internship is ideal for:
• university students (Bachelor’s or Master’s)
• recent graduates
• youth interested in climate change or sustainability
• agriculture and environmental science students
• economics, development studies, or policy students
• communications and media students
• young researchers
• aspiring UN or NGO professionals
You do not need:
• a long CV
• UN experience
• an expensive degree
• international travel experience
FAO values motivation, skills, and interest over prestige.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the FAO Internship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be between 21 and 30 years old
• Be enrolled in a university degree programme or be a recent graduate
• Have a background or interest in FAO’s fields of work
• Be able to work remotely with minimal supervision
• Have strong communication skills
• Be proficient in at least one FAO working language:
• English
• French
• Spanish
• Arabic
• Chinese
• Russian
There are no nationality restrictions, and applicants from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the FAO Virtual Internship
While FAO internships are unpaid, the career value is significant.
Interns receive:
• Hands-on UN experience
• Exposure to global food and climate policy
• Training in research, reporting, and data analysis
• Professional mentorship from FAO staff
• International networking opportunities
• FAO internship certificate
• Strong foundation for future UN or NGO roles
• Flexibility to balance studies or other work
For many interns, this programme becomes a stepping stone into:
• FAO consultancies
• UN Junior Professional roles
• NGO positions
• research and policy careers
Internship Duration
• Typically 3 to 11 months
• Part-time or full-time depending on department needs
• Flexible scheduling for virtual interns
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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Applications are submitted through FAO’s official recruitment portal.
Step 1: Visit the Official FAO Internship Page
Go to FAO’s careers portal and search for “Internship Programme”.
Step 2: Create an Online Profile
You’ll need to:
• register on the FAO job portal
• complete your personal profile
• upload your CV
Step 3: Apply to Internship Vacancies
Select internship opportunities that match your background and interests. Some listings specify virtual or remote eligibility.
Step 4: Submit Motivation Information
You may be asked to explain:
• why you want to intern with FAO
• your area of interest
• how your skills align with FAO’s work
Step 5: Wait for Shortlisting
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional information or interviews.
FAO accepts applications year-round, and internships remain valid throughout 2026.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
• Clearly explain your interest in food security, climate, or development.
• Highlight any research, volunteering, or coursework related to FAO’s work.
• Keep your CV simple and results-focused.
• Show willingness to learn and work independently.
• Emphasize communication, research, or data skills.
• Mention any experience working with communities, NGOs, or development projects.
FAO is looking for commitment and curiosity, not perfection.
Final Thoughts
The FAO Virtual Internship Programme 2026 is one of the most practical UN internships for young people who want global exposure without the financial burden of relocation. It offers meaningful work, strong career value, and direct involvement in solving real-world problems like hunger, climate change, and sustainability.
For students and graduates looking to break into international development, this is a solid opportunity worth applying for.