Letter of application for an internship at an international organisation

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Subject: Application for an internship with an international organisation

Attachment: Curriculum Vitae

For the attention of the Human Resources Department / Internships Department

[Target international organisation]

[Postal or email address]

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am currently a student studying (please specify your field of study and level) at [please state the name of the institution and, if applicable, its location], and I am currently seeking a recognised work placement for a period of (please specify the duration) starting on (please specify your preferred start date). I am particularly interested in global issues relating to governance, sustainable development, peace and international cooperation, and I am keen to gain my first professional experience within an international organisation such as yours. Indeed, I am fascinated by the organisation’s remit and operations, and I believe they would be particularly interesting in terms of making a tangible contribution to its work whilst developing my skills, whether professional or academic.

A comprehensive and coherent programme

In this context, and ever since the early days of my school and university education, I have been passionate about international and political balances, multilateral dynamics and public policy. Indeed, issues relating to human development, multilateral diplomacy and collective security are central to my career plans. 

Therefore, the opportunity to join an international organisation such as yours would, for me, represent a chance to work alongside committed professionals, in an enriching yet highly demanding multicultural environment, directly addressing the challenges we face. For me, this experience would go beyond a mere work placement, as I regard it as a decisive step in my commitment as a citizen. Gaining an understanding of the principles of inter-state cooperation, being able to participate in high-impact projects, and also experiencing the realities of the workplace will enable me to confirm this career path and add significant value to my university studies.

As part of my postgraduate studies, I have developed a solid knowledge base in a wide range of fields, including: global governance, international law, and an understanding of economic and development regulatory bodies. In particular, I have studied: (1) North-South relations, (2) human rights, (3) the functioning of international institutions, and (4) international financial regulatory instruments.

In addition to these academic achievements, I have also honed key skills such as analytical, synthesis and writing abilities, which are essential in such a rigorous and demanding environment.

An international outlook reflected in a variety of experiences

The consistency of my career path is also demonstrated by a strong international focus right from the start of my studies, including: an Erasmus exchange to (specify the country), participation in a humanitarian project in (specify the country), active involvement in an organisation supporting international students, and proficiency in several working languages (list the relevant languages). My approach is therefore part of a very long-term strategy, and joining your organisation would be a major milestone for me.

Reasons for choosing the host organisation

This keen interest in these institutions has been fuelled by a range of reading material, such as the UNDP’s annual reports (covering development-related issues), various bulletins and publications from the IMF and the WTO, those from the Centre for Studies and Forecasting at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and even the specialist press and various leading works in the field. I finally had the opportunity to put this knowledge into practice through my participation in Model United Nations (MUN) simulations, where I was able to take on the role of delegate in multilateral negotiations (provide dates).

Thanks to my high academic rigour, my writing skills and abilities, and my proficiency in digital tools (Excel, PowerPoint, statistical software and project management suites), I am able to contribute immediately and effectively to a variety of assignments. 

Finally, I am also fully aware of the requirements regarding confidentiality, integrity and ethics, which I adhere to with the utmost rigour and to which I am committed to complying.

A clear commitment to progress in the field of international cooperation

This work placement is therefore fully in line with a medium- and long-term career development strategy, in that it aligns with my desire to pursue an international career. In the medium term, this experience would enable me to apply for various programmes designed for young people, such as: (1) the United Nations Young Professionals Programme (YPP), (2) the OECD Young Professionals Programme, and (3) the entrance examinations for European institutions.

Conclusion – A sincere commitment and immediate availability

To conclude this letter, I would like to reiterate how honoured I would be to be able to contribute by working alongside your teams and in line with all the values that underpin your organisation. I am available from (specify possible dates) for a period of (specify number of weeks or months), and I am entirely at your disposal for any interview or to provide you with any additional documents required to consider my application (agreement, CV, covering letter, references).

Thank you for considering my application. Yours faithfully,

Surname, First name

Signature