The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is inviting applications for its 2026 Internship Programme for the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. This opportunity is open to talented young individuals eager to contribute to FAO’s mission of achieving food security and sustainable agricultural development.
About the Programme
The FAO Internship Programme is designed to provide young people with practical work experience that complements their academic studies. Through this programme, interns will contribute innovative ideas, learn about international development, and gain hands-on exposure to FAO’s operations in the NENA region.
FAO works across more than 130 countries to ensure that people have access to enough nutritious food for active and healthy lives. This internship supports the organization’s goal of promoting efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda.
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Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the FAO Internship Programme 2026, candidates must:
- Be enrolled in or have recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate degree program from an institution recognized by UNESCO/IAU (World Higher Education Database).
- Be between 21 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Specialize in a field relevant to FAO’s mission (agriculture, food security, environment, or related areas).
- Have a working knowledge of at least one FAO language: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish.
- Be a national of a FAO Member Country.
- Demonstrate strong communication skills and adaptability to multicultural environments.
- Ensure gender balance in team applications, with at least one male and one female participant.
Internship Details
- Duration: 3 to 11 months
- Location: Various offices within the Near East and North Africa region
- Type: Full-time Internship
- Compensation: A monthly stipend is provided (unless sponsored by another entity).
Interns will work under the supervision of an FAO officer, supporting projects in key areas such as food systems, climate resilience, sustainable farming, or digital innovation in agriculture.
Core Competencies
Interns are expected to demonstrate FAO’s core values:
- Results Focus
- Teamwork
- Effective Communication
- Building Relationships
- Continuous Learning and Knowledge Sharing
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online through the official FAO recruitment portal
Application Requirements:
- Complete an online profile with accurate academic and employment details.
- Attach a motivation letter and proof of current enrollment or degree completion.
- Submit the application before the deadline: 31 December 2025 (11:59 PM).
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. Candidates who have previously completed an internship with FAO are not eligible to apply again.
Important Notes
- FAO does not charge any application or recruitment fee.
- Applicants from underrepresented countries and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
- FAO maintains a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse, or discrimination.
- The organization promotes diversity, integrity, and professionalism across all its operations.
