The UNICEF Legal Internship 2026 offers law students and recent law graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience with the Legal Team of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Two internship positions are available in New York, USA, and Copenhagen, Denmark, with a duration of six months.
The internship is suitable for candidates interested in international law, public law, commercial law, legal research, and the work of international organizations.
UNICEF Legal Internship 2026 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | UNICEF |
| Internship Area | Legal Affairs |
| Positions | 2 |
| Locations | New York, USA & Copenhagen, Denmark |
| Duration | 6 months |
| Experience | Not required |
| Required Language | English |
| Deadline | September 13, 2026 |
| Job Number | 595144 |
About the Internship
UNICEF’s Legal Team provides legal advice and support to the organization’s programmes, operations, partnerships, and institutional activities around the world.
As a legal intern, you will work under the supervision of a Legal Affairs Specialist and gain exposure to practical legal work in an international organization. Assignments may vary according to the team’s needs and the intern’s qualifications and interests.
Responsibilities of Legal Interns
Selected interns may assist with:
- Conducting legal research on issues relevant to UNICEF.
- Preparing legal memoranda, briefing notes, presentations, and correspondence.
- Reviewing legal, policy, and background documents.
- Supporting legal knowledge-management and documentation.
- Preparing materials for meetings and discussions.
- Attending meetings and preparing notes or summaries.
- Assisting with other Legal Team projects when required.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Be enrolled in a graduate law programme such as an LL.M., J.D., or equivalent.
- Be currently enrolled in the final year of your first university-level law degree.
- Have completed a qualifying law degree within the previous two years.
Professional Experience
Previous professional legal experience is not required. However, academic research, volunteer work, or internships related to international law, public law, commercial law, or similar areas are desirable.
Skills Required
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong legal research and analytical abilities.
- Excellent writing and drafting skills.
- Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work in a multicultural environment.
- A constructive and client-oriented approach.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Language Requirements
Fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of Spanish is desirable. Arabic, Chinese, French, or Russian, which are also official UN languages, can be an additional advantage.
Internship Locations
New York, USA
One legal internship position is based at UNICEF Headquarters in New York. The intern will support the Legal Team under the supervision of a Legal Affairs Specialist.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The second position is based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Applicants can mention their preferred location in their cover letter.
How to Apply for the UNICEF Legal Internship
Candidates should submit their applications through the official UNICEF recruitment system. Your application should clearly present your law education, research experience, relevant internships or volunteering, technical skills, and language abilities.
If you prefer either New York or Copenhagen, clearly state your preferred location in the cover letter.
Application deadline: September 13, 2026, Eastern Daylight Time.
Important Note
UNICEF does not charge any application or recruitment fee at any stage of its hiring process. Applicants should be cautious of anyone requesting payment in exchange for recruitment or selection.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the UNICEF Legal Internship 2026?
Law students in their final year, students enrolled in graduate law programmes, and recent law graduates who completed their degree within the last two years can apply.
Is previous legal experience required?
No. Professional legal experience is not mandatory, although relevant academic, research, volunteer, or internship experience is desirable.
How long is the internship?
The UNICEF Legal Internship has a six-month duration.
Where are the positions located?
The two positions are available in New York, United States, and Copenhagen, Denmark.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is September 13, 2026, Eastern Daylight Time.
Is English required?
Yes. Applicants must have fluency in English. Knowledge of additional UN languages may be an advantage.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Legal Internship 2026 provides law students and recent graduates with valuable exposure to legal research, drafting, analysis, and international organizational work. With opportunities in New York and Copenhagen, it can be an excellent option for candidates looking to develop an international legal career.
Interested applicants should review the official vacancy carefully and submit their application before the September 13, 2026 deadline.
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