UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo, Japan (Paid Program)

Applications are now open for the United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship 2026 in Tokyo, Japan 🇯🇵.

This paid internship program is hosted at the UNU Headquarters in Shibuya, Tokyo, and is open to both international and Japanese applicants. It’s an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience at one of the world’s leading research and policy institutions affiliated with the United Nations.

The UNU internship aims to foster leadership, academic exchange, and cross-cultural collaboration among young scholars and professionals passionate about global development.

Details About the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026

Host Organization: United Nations University (UNU)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Duration: 6 Months (March – August 2026)
Financial Coverage: Paid Internship + Other Perks
Application Deadline: 31 October 2025

Financial Benefits

The UNU Junior Fellows Internship provides financial support and several in-house privileges to selected fellows, including:

A monthly stipend to cover living expenses in Tokyo
Transportation to and from the UNU Headquarters (Shibuya)
Office space and work facilities
Free access to the UNU library and on-site gym
1.5 days of paid leave per month

Internship Duration and Dates

Start Date: 2 March 2026
End Date: 28 August 2026
Duration: Approximately 6 months (24 weeks)

Objectives of the Internship

The UNU Junior Fellows Programme is designed to:

Encourage dialogue and collaboration among young scholars, researchers, and professionals.
Introduce interns to the workings of the United Nations and UNU’s Office of the Rector.
Provide practical, hands-on experience in a real UN administrative environment.
Offer opportunities to contribute to ongoing UNU projects and initiatives.
Support UNU’s mission to bridge the gap between research, policy, and practice.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026, applicants must:

Be under 32 years old at the time of application.
Be enrolled in or have recently completed a postgraduate (Master’s or Doctoral) degree in a relevant field.
Have no more than 5 years of related professional experience.
Demonstrate strong written and spoken English skills.
Possess excellent research, writing, and analytical abilities.
Be creative, resourceful, and able to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
Have advanced computer skills, including MS Office (especially Excel).
Show a clear interest in the UN system and UNU’s mission.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

Completed Application Form
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover Letter
Funding Form (detailing the source, amount, and duration of your funding in Tokyo)
Letters of Recommendation and Recommendation Form

Note: Instead of the UN “P11 form,” upload your current CV.

How to Apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026

The application process is entirely online. Applicants must: