UNEP is the leading global authority on environmental matters, promoting sustainable development and serving as an advocate for the global environment
The Latin America and the Caribbean Office (UNEP LACO) is based in Panama City and serves 33 countries, including 16 small island developing states, with a population of approximately 650 million
UNEP LACO’s Climate Change Sub-programme supports countries in transitioning to low-emission and climate-resilient development pathways, including:
Green hydrogen economy initiatives
Development and implementation of carbon markets and Article 6 mechanisms
Ecosystem-based adaptation for water security
National adaptation planning processes
Cross-cutting issues like gender equity and women’s empowerment are integrated into UNEP initiatives to ensure equitable climate action
Interns report directly to the Regional Sub-programme Coordinator on Climate Action
Duties and Responsibilities
Support projects and initiatives under the Climate Action Programme, including:
Advancing a Regional Approach to the Green Hydrogen Economy in Latin America and the Caribbean
Support for the Development of Integral Carbon Markets (Euroclima LAC)
Capacity building for implementation of Carbon Markets and Article 6 (LAC-6)
Fostering climate change adaptation in Panama through ecosystem-based approaches for water security
Building capacities for National Adaptation Plan development in Panama
Supporting climate-resilient initiatives in El Salvador
Work full-time (40 hours/week) under supervision of UNEP staff
Assist in data management, analysis, and reporting for projects and initiatives
Contribute to writing thematic and progress reports and visualizing data
Attend relevant meetings and coordinate with stakeholders as required
Qualifications / Special Skills
Must meet one of the following at the time of application:
Enrolled in a Master’s Degree program in environmental policy, climate change, natural resource management, development, engineering, law, gender studies, or related field
Enrolled in final year of Bachelor’s program in the above fields
Graduated with a university degree in the above fields (preferred focus on environment)
Computer literate in MS Office applications
Keen interest in the United Nations and commitment to the UN Charter
Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds
Knowledge of critical environmental issues in Latin America and the Caribbean is an asset
Ability to write reports, manage and visualize data is an asset
No prior work experience required; education, training, or skills should benefit the UN during the internship
Languages
Fluency in English and Spanish (oral and written) required
Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable
Core Competencies
Communication:
Speaks and writes clearly and effectively
Listens, interprets messages, and responds appropriately
Tailors language, tone, and style to the audience
Demonstrates openness in sharing information
Teamwork:
Collaborates effectively with colleagues
Values others’ ideas and expertise
Places team agenda before personal agenda
Supports group decisions and shares credit for team accomplishments
Client Orientation:
Considers recipients of services as “clients” and works to understand their perspective
Builds productive partnerships and gains trust and respect
Monitors developments and anticipates problems
Keeps clients informed of progress and meets project timelines
Intern Specific Information
Internship is UNPAID
Costs for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or sponsoring institution
Non-citizens or non-permanent residents may require appropriate visa and work/employment authorization
Successful candidates should confirm visa requirements before accepting the internship
Deadline : Nov 13, 2025
Start your application
Applications for this position must be completed on the recruiting organization's website.
