The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a highly motivated Digital Media Intern to join its Rome Centre for Climate Action and Energy Transition in Rome, Italy. This six-month internship offers an exceptional opportunity for students and recent graduates passionate about digital communications, climate action, sustainable development and international cooperation to gain practical experience within one of the world’s leading development organizations.
About UNDP and the Rome Centre
UNDP serves as the United Nations’ lead agency for international development, supporting countries and communities in eradicating poverty, advancing sustainable development and addressing climate change. Through its global presence, UNDP helps nations implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), strengthen resilience and mobilize resources for transformative development.
The Rome Centre for Climate Action and Energy Transition was established to strengthen the strategic partnership between UNDP and the Government of Italy. The Centre plays a critical role in advancing sustainable development priorities through initiatives focused on climate action, energy transition, climate finance and youth engagement.
The Centre supports several flagship programmes, including the Technical Assistance and Investment Support Facility, the Energy for Growth Initiative, and Youth4Climate, while also serving as UNDP’s office in Italy. Through these programmes, the Centre works to mobilize investments, support clean energy access, strengthen climate resilience and create opportunities for youth leadership in environmental action.
Internship Overview
Under the supervision of the Communications Lead and reporting to the Communication Analyst, the Digital Media Intern will support the Centre’s communications strategy and digital outreach activities. The role offers hands-on experience in content creation, social media management, digital storytelling, event communications and website publishing.
The internship is particularly suitable for individuals interested in combining communications expertise with climate action, sustainable development and international cooperation.
Key Responsibilities
Content Development
The intern will contribute to creating compelling content that showcases the impact of UNDP programmes and partnerships.
Responsibilities include:
• Drafting and editing web stories, newsletters and social media content.
• Supporting the preparation of key messages, visual materials and promotional content for programmes and events.
• Maintaining and organizing the Centre’s digital media library, including photographs, graphics and video assets.
• Assisting with multilingual content adaptation where required.
Digital Communications and Social Media
The selected candidate will help strengthen the Centre’s online presence across multiple digital platforms.
Key tasks include:
• Supporting the daily management of social media channels, including LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
• Assisting with content planning, scheduling and publishing.
• Adapting content to platform-specific formats and audience expectations.
• Monitoring engagement metrics and social media analytics.
• Identifying successful content trends and incorporating insights into future communications strategies.
Event Communications
The intern will support communications activities linked to conferences, campaigns and high-level events.
Responsibilities include:
• Preparing communications packages, social media materials and visual assets.
• Assisting with live event coverage through photos, quotes and key highlights.
• Transforming event outputs into engaging web and social media content.
Website and Content Management
The role also includes support for UNDP’s digital publishing activities.
Tasks include:
• Drafting, formatting and publishing content on the UNDP website.
• Building and updating pages for campaigns and events.
• Uploading multimedia content and creating captions, metadata and accessibility-focused alt text.
Research and Creative Development
The intern will contribute to research efforts that support storytelling and campaign development.
Responsibilities include:
• Conducting desk research on climate action, energy transition and sustainable development topics.
• Generating ideas for innovative digital campaigns and storytelling formats.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application:
• Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme such as a Master’s degree or higher in Communications, Media Studies, Graphic Design, Marketing or a related discipline.
• Be enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree programme in a relevant field.
• Have graduated within the past year from a relevant university programme and be available to start the internship within one year of graduation.
• Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship programme that includes an internship component.
Desired Skills and Experience
Strong candidates will demonstrate:
• Excellent understanding of digital media and social media platforms.
• Knowledge of LinkedIn, Instagram, X and short-form video content.
• Familiarity with content management systems and social media scheduling tools.
• Experience using Canva, CapCut, Adobe Creative Suite or similar design software.
• Interest in climate action, energy transition and sustainable development.
• Knowledge of the United Nations system, which is considered an advantage.
Important: Applications will only be considered if accompanied by a portfolio of relevant work. Candidates should ensure that examples of digital content, communications materials, graphic design work or social media campaigns are included in their application.
Language Requirements
• Excellent written and spoken English is required.
• Working knowledge of Italian or another official UN language is considered an asset.
Internship Benefits and Stipend
Unlike many UN internships, UNDP may provide a monthly stipend to interns who are not financially supported by a university, government, scholarship programme or other institution. The stipend is intended to help cover basic daily expenses such as meals and transportation.
Interns will also accrue 1.5 days of leave per month throughout the internship period.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications before 17 September 2026 through the official UNDP recruitment platform.
Applicants should carefully ensure that all required documentation is included, particularly their portfolio, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
This internship presents a valuable opportunity for aspiring communications professionals to gain practical experience at the intersection of digital media, climate action, energy transition and international development, while contributing to impactful global initiatives led by UNDP.
