UNFCCC Legal Affairs Division Internship 2025 in Germany (On-site)

The UNFCCC Legal Affairs Division Internship offers a unique opportunity for law students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of international climate law and compliance. Taking place from 1 September to 31 October 2025 at the UNFCCC headquarters in Bonn, Germany, the internship focuses on supporting the Paris Agreement Implementation and Compliance Committee (PAICC) and the Kyoto Protocol Compliance Committee (KPCC). Through this program, participants will assist in legal research, drafting official documents, and organizing intergovernmental meetings, contributing directly to the mechanisms that ensure countries meet their climate commitments. This internship is ideal for individuals who are passionate about climate change, sustainability, and the legal processes behind global environmental action.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet one of the following at the time of application:

• Be enrolled in a graduate program (e.g. Master's, PhD), OR
• Be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree.
  Additional requirements:
• Academic focus in Law or a relevant field.
• Fluent in English (oral + written); other UN languages are a plus.
• Strong writing and MS Office skills.
• Interest in climate change/sustainability is desirable.

Program Dates/Location

• Application Deadline: August 12, 2025
• Start date: September 1, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2025
• Duration: 2 months (possibility to extend up to 6 months)
• Location: On-site in Bonn, Germany, or hybrid (subject to visa/internship permit availability)
• May require part of the internship to be remote, depending on permit status.

Program Benefits

• This internship is unpaid. All costs (travel, insurance, etc.) must be covered by the intern, however, interns will gain some benefits, including:
  • Hands-on experience in UN climate legal work
  • Skills development in legal research, documentation, procedural support, and logistics
  • Exposure to intergovernmental meetings and legal mechanisms under the Paris Agreement and Kyoto Protocol

Required Documents

• Cover letter
• Evidence of eligibility (proof of enrollment in university program)
• Updated CV/resume

Application Process

• Apply via the UNFCCC online application system
• Upload all required documents
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

Important Information

• Interns must have a computer that meets UNFCCC IT requirements (updated OS, antivirus, reliable internet, etc.)
• A mobile phone is needed for multifactor authentication (MFA).
• A 365 Office license will be provided for official tasks.
• Interns are not considered UN staff members.