From driving economic growth and creating jobs to promoting strong education systems, innovation, and fair taxation, the OECD provides a unique forum and knowledge hub for dialogue, research and collaboration. Its mission is clear: to promote policies that improve the economic and social well-being of people worldwide
The OECD Internship Programme offers motivated and high-achieving students the opportunity to gain professional experience in an international environment. It is designed to attract talented individuals with diverse academic and cultural backgrounds who can contribute to the OECD’s strategic priorities.
Interns work directly with policy experts and contribute to ongoing projects aligned with the Strategic Orientations of the Secretary-General, supporting the organisation’s mission of fostering global cooperation and sustainable development. The programme’s main goal is to help interns strengthen their analytical, technical, and research skills while learning about the OECD’s work and international policymaking processes.
Areas of Work
Interns are placed across the Organisation depending on their field of study, interests, and the OECD’s current needs. Assignments may be within policy areas such as:
- Agriculture and Fisheries
- Artificial Intelligence and Digitalisation
- Anti-Bribery and Corruption
- Competition and Corporate Governance
- Development and Aid Effectiveness
- Economy, Employment, and Education
- Environment, Energy, and Climate
- Gender and Diversity
- Global Relations and International Migration
- Finance, Investment, and Taxation
- Innovation, Science, and Technology
- Public Governance, Regional Development, and Regulatory Reform
- Tourism and Transport
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- Communications, Media and Public Relations
- Event Management
- Finance, Budget and Accounting
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Legal Services and Office Administration
- Translation and Linguistic Services
Main Responsibilities
Interns will contribute to real projects and support OECD teams by performing tasks such as:
- Participating in research and analysis, reviewing existing materials and literature;
- Collecting, organising and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data;
- Drafting reports, briefing notes and technical documents;
- Contributing to working papers, policy publications and event documentation;
- Assisting in organising meetings, workshops, and conferences;
- Liaising with experts, government officials, researchers and partner organisations;
- Supporting communication, outreach and evaluation activities.
Through these activities, interns gain first-hand insight into how international policy is developed, negotiated and implemented across multiple sectors and regions.
Candidate Profile
Academic Requirements:
Applicants must be full-time students enrolled in a recognised degree programme for the entire duration of the internship. Studies should be in a field relevant to the OECD’s work, such as economics, public policy, international relations, law, environmental science, social sciences, or related disciplines.Professional Experience:
Previous international experience — whether through study, volunteering or internships — is an asset. A demonstrated interest in global cooperation, policy research, or development issues is highly desirable.Technical Skills:
- Strong quantitative, analytical and computer skills;
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications;
- Familiarity with research tools and data analysis software is an advantage.
Languages:
Fluency in one of the OECD’s official languages (English or French) and working knowledge of the other are required. Candidates must be committed to improving proficiency in both languages.Key Competencies:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Proven organisational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks;
- Capacity to work independently under general supervision;
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to thrive in a multicultural team;
- Flexibility and adaptability to evolving priorities and methods.



