The challenges of the 21st-century climate change, inequality, global trade, education gaps, and digital transformation require collaborative, evidence-based solutions. At the heart of this mission stands the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), a global body dedicated to shaping better policies for better lives. With 38 member countries and partnerships worldwide, the OECD provides a forum where governments, policymakers, and citizens work together to tackle pressing economic, social, and environmental challenges.

For students and young professionals seeking a career in international policy, the OECD Internship Programme offers an unparalleled opportunity. Based in Paris, France, this initiative is designed to bring highly qualified and motivated students into the Organisation, allowing them to contribute directly to projects that influence global policies. More than a simple internship, the programme is a gateway into the world of international cooperation, research, and innovation.

This article explores the structure, objectives, benefits, and long-term value of the OECD Internship Programme, providing students with a comprehensive overview of why applying could be one of the most impactful career decisions they ever make.

About the OECD: Building Better Policies for Better Lives

The OECD was established to promote sustainable economic growth, employment, and rising standards of living. Today, its work spans across areas such as taxation, trade, governance, environmental sustainability, education, and development.

At its core, the OECD serves as a knowledge hub and forum for dialogue. Member countries share data, best practices, and policy experiences, helping governments design solutions that improve people’s lives. From developing strategies to fight tax evasion to supporting green energy transitions, the OECD plays a central role in shaping the global policy agenda.

The Internship Programme embodies this spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing by welcoming students from diverse backgrounds into the Organisation’s day-to-day activities.

Purpose of the OECD Internship Programme

The OECD Internship Programme has a clear mission: to equip students with practical experience in an international environment, while benefiting from their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Interns do not simply observe—they become active contributors to research, policy discussions, and project implementation.

The programme is designed around two primary goals:

1. Capacity Development for Students: By working alongside experienced policy analysts, interns sharpen their analytical, technical, and professional skills.
2. Support for OECD Directorates: Interns provide valuable contributions to OECD’s work, from preparing studies to analyzing data and supporting high-level policy dialogues.

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Fields of Work and Opportunities

Interns may be placed across a wide variety of thematic and functional areas. This diversity ensures that students with different academic and professional backgrounds can find roles aligned with their expertise and career ambitions.

Policy-Oriented Fields

Interns working in policy areas contribute to projects in sectors such as:

• Agriculture and Fisheries: Examining sustainable farming practices and global food security.
• Artificial Intelligence and Digitalisation: Exploring how emerging technologies impact governance, economies, and societies.
• Climate, Energy, and Environment: Designing strategies to combat climate change, promote renewable energy, and reduce pollution.
• Corporate Governance and Finance: Supporting transparency, accountability, and responsible business conduct.
• Education and Skills: Contributing to research on education systems and lifelong learning.
• Health and Well-being: Addressing public health policies and responses to global health crises.
• Trade, Tourism, and Transport: Analysing global supply chains and sustainable economic development.

Corporate Functions

Beyond policy areas, interns may also support the OECD’s internal operations, such as:

• Communications and Media Relations
• Human Resources and Administration
• Event Management and Outreach
• Finance, Budget, and Accounting
• Legal Services
• Information Technology
• Translation and Language Services

This dual structure ensures that students interested in policy research or organizational management both find suitable opportunities.

What Interns Do: Roles and Responsibilities

Interns at OECD are entrusted with meaningful tasks that mirror the work of full-time staff. Examples of responsibilities include:

• Conducting literature reviews and collecting data for ongoing projects.
• Drafting technical notes, working papers, and policy briefs.
• Supporting the preparation of major OECD publications.
• Assisting in the organization of international events, workshops, and seminars.
• Participating in team meetings and contributing to brainstorming sessions.
• Building professional networks with officials, researchers, and international organizations.

These experiences provide interns with a holistic understanding of global policy-making and the confidence to navigate complex international environments.

Benefits of the Programme

The OECD Internship Programme offers multiple benefits that go beyond the immediate experience in Paris.

1. Professional Growth
   • Interns develop advanced analytical, drafting, and presentation skills.
   • Exposure to real-world policy issues builds critical problem-solving capacity.
2. International Networking
   • Interns connect with professionals from OECD member countries, international organizations, and academia.
   • These networks often serve as stepping stones for future careers.
3. Exposure to Multicultural Environments
   • Working in Paris within a team of diverse colleagues fosters adaptability and cross-cultural understanding.
4. Career Advancement
   • Many OECD interns go on to careers in government, NGOs, research institutions, or international organizations.
   • The internship acts as a strong credential on any CV.
5. Practical Contribution
   • Interns directly contribute to research and policy development, ensuring their work has real-world impact.

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Eligibility and Requirements

Academic Background

Applicants must be full-time students enrolled in a degree programme for the duration of the internship. Fields of study should align with the OECD’s areas of work, such as economics, international relations, law, public policy, environmental studies, or related disciplines.

Professional Skills

• Previous international experience—through study abroad, internships, or volunteer work—is considered an asset.
• Strong quantitative and computer skills, especially proficiency in Microsoft Office, are essential.

Language Skills

• Fluency in one of the OECD’s official languages (English or French).
• Commitment to improving working proficiency in the other.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Ability to conduct independent research.
• Adaptability in multicultural environments.
• Excellent drafting and communication abilities.

Duration and Application Process

The OECD Internship Programme offers flexible contracts ranging from one to six months, with the possibility of renewal for up to twelve months. Interns are recruited on a rolling basis, meaning applications are open year-round.

Deadlines

• Applications for the current cycle are accepted until 31 December 2025.
• A new cycle will begin immediately afterward.

Because the selection process can take up to three months, students are encouraged to apply well in advance of their desired start date.

How to Apply

1. Visit the OECD Careers portal.
2. Submit your application online, including CV, motivation letter, and availability.
3. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

If applicants are not selected within six months, they may reapply using the same email address.

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Living and Working in Paris

Interns are based at the OECD headquarters in Paris, one of the most dynamic and culturally rich cities in the world. Beyond professional development, the experience offers:

• Exposure to global cultural diversity.
• Opportunities to explore international diplomacy in a European capital.
• A chance to balance rigorous work with cultural enrichment.

Long-Term Impact of the OECD Internship

Interns leave the programme not only with practical skills but also with a global outlook and professional confidence. Many alumni pursue careers in:

• International organizations (UN, World Bank, IMF, WTO).
• National governments and ministries.
• Research institutes and think tanks.
• NGOs and advocacy organizations.
• Private sector roles in consulting, finance, and corporate social responsibility.

The programme is widely recognized as a launchpad for careers in global governance and international policy.

Conclusion

The OECD Internship Programme is more than an internship—it is a transformative experience that equips students with the tools, networks, and vision to shape the world. By contributing to cutting-edge projects in Paris, interns become part of a global effort to tackle pressing challenges and design policies that build better lives for all.

For highly motivated students, this is a rare opportunity to gain international exposure, sharpen professional skills, and contribute to shaping the policies of tomorrow.

🗓 Applications are open until 31 December 2025. Don’t miss the chance to join one of the world’s leading platforms for international cooperation.

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For more information, Visit:the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

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