UNU Junior Fellows Paid Internship 2025/26 in Tokyo, Japan | Apply Now
The United Nations University (UNU) is currently accepting applications for the prestigious Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2025/26 in Tokyo, Japan. This fully paid internship offers a unique opportunity for students, recent graduates, and young professionals to work at the UNU Headquarters in Shibuya, one of the most vibrant districts in Tokyo.
Whether you are an international student or a Japanese national, this program offers an excellent entry point into the world of global development, international policy, and academic research through one of the most respected institutions within the United Nations system.
Internship Overview
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Host Organization: United Nations University (UNU)
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Location: UNU Headquarters, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
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Duration: 6 months (24 weeks)
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Start Date: 26 August 2025
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End Date: 25 February 2026
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Application Deadline: 31 May 2025
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Type: Paid Internship
What You Will Gain
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship is more than a traditional internship — it provides direct exposure to the Office of the Rector and other UNU operations, allowing interns to actively engage in:
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Administrative and project-based tasks
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Research and policy work
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Event organization
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Communication and reporting
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Multicultural team collaboration
Financial Support & Benefits
Interns selected for the UNU Junior Fellows Program will receive:
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A monthly stipend to assist with living expenses in Tokyo
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Transportation support to and from the UNU office
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Access to UNU’s facilities, including a library and gym
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Office space and working tools provided
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1.5 days of paid leave per month
Internship Objectives
This program is designed to:
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Foster professional interaction between young talent and UNU staff
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Provide real-world insight into the functioning of a global UN agency
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Build administrative, research, and communication skills
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Strengthen the intern’s interest in international development and policy
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Support career development in multilateral institutions
Who Is Eligible?
To apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2025/26, applicants must:
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Be under 32 years old at the time of application
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Be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Master’s or PhD program
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Have no more than 5 years of full-time professional experience
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Demonstrate fluency in English (spoken and written)
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Show strong skills in research, writing, and analysis
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Be proactive, adaptable, and solution-oriented
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Be comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds
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Have advanced computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office (Excel preferred)
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Show a genuine interest in the work of the UN and UNU
Note: Applicants from all nationalities are welcome.
Required Documents
When preparing your application, ensure you have the following ready:
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Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae)
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Motivational Cover Letter
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Completed UNU Internship Application Form
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Funding Form (detailing how you will financially support your stay in Tokyo)
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Two Letters of Recommendation + Recommendation Form
Important: Where the online system requests a “P11 Form,” upload your current CV instead.
How to Apply
To apply for this competitive program, follow the steps below:
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Visit the UNU Careers Portal
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Fill out and submit the online application form
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Upload the Funding Form and other required documents
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Wait for communication — only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Apply here: UNU Junior Fellows Internship – Official Application Page
Why Apply?
This is not just an internship — it’s a career-building experience. As a Junior Fellow, you’ll gain:
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International exposure in a UN setting
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Practical skills that go beyond the classroom
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A deeper understanding of global governance and development
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Connections with international professionals, academics, and policymakers
Final Words
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2025/26 offers a transformative opportunity for aspiring professionals who want to contribute meaningfully to global change. If you’re passionate about international cooperation, research, and development, don’t miss the application deadline on 31 May 2025.
Start your journey in Tokyo — one of the world’s most innovative and dynamic cities — and take a step closer to a future in global leadership.