Panel Discussion: “UN Intern Cross Talk 2026: Building a Career in International Organizations”
On June 30, the WIPO Japan Office and the United Nations University (UNU) co-hosted an online panel discussion titled “UN Intern Cross Talk 2026: Building a Career in International Organizations.” The event featured experiences of current and former interns at UN and international organizations, and welcomed more than 100 participants, mostly students and early-career professionals.
The panel featured five current and former interns from the United Nations University (UNU), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). They introduced their respective organizations, internship programs, day-to-day responsibilities, and career paths.
During the Q&A session in the second half of the event, participants actively engaged with the panelists by asking practical questions such as, "How supportive is the workplace for women?" and "What concerns have you faced regarding your career?"
Networking Event Held at United Nations University
On June 10, an in-person networking event was held at the UNU campus in Tokyo, bringing together 22 current and former interns with experience at UN offices in Japan.
Participants came from a diverse range of institutions, including UNU, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), International Organization for Migration (IOM), UNDP, UNFPA, United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), UNIDO, and WIPO.
The program featured two rounds of small groups discussions. The first focused on surprising or memorable aspects of the internship experience, as well as the unique workplace cultures of each organization. The second round invited participants to share their career interests and concerns, sparking vibrant conversations about different work environments, values, and future directions.
The event concluded with an open networking session, where participants connected freely with peers across groups. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged meaningful exchange and underscored the value of peer networks in exploring careers in multilateral settings.
Through these initiatives, the WIPO Japan Office reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the next generation of global talent. As a specialized agency of the United Nations, WIPO Japan Office is dedicated to making careers in international organizations more accessible and relatable to youth.