Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD – Apply now for an exclusive global policy internship with the International Investment Governance Unit (IIGU) of the OECD Investment Division (DAF), starting January 2026. This position offers unparalleled exposure to international investment law, policy analysis, and economic governance within one of the world’s most influential intergovernmental organizations.
About the Organization – Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an international organization comprising 38 member countries, dedicated to building better policies for better lives. Headquartered in Paris, France, the OECD works with governments, policymakers, and citizens to promote evidence-based policies that improve economic and social well-being globally.
As a leader in setting international standards, the OECD serves as a collaborative platform for addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges. Within its Directorate for Financial and Enterprise Affairs (DAF), the Investment Division (INV) plays a key role in guiding policy development related to investment law, foreign direct investment, and responsible business conduct.
The International Investment Governance Unit (IIGU) within the Investment Division supports the international investment policy community by generating analysis, research, and policy tools to help countries design frameworks that balance openness with national security and sustainable development goals.
About the Internship Opportunity
The Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD (January 2026 intake) is a unique chance to work with the IIGU team in the Investment Division. Selected interns will contribute to ongoing research, legal analysis, and policy evaluation projects related to international investment treaties and investment screening mechanisms for national security.
Interns will gain exposure to global investment law, public international law, and comparative policy frameworks, while collaborating with experts from multiple OECD member nations. This internship is ideal for Master’s students specializing in international economic law, international relations, or policy studies who wish to experience policymaking and legal research at an international level.
Event Timeline
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 15 November 2025 |
| Internship Period | Starting January 2026 |
| Application Review | Rolling basis until positions are filled |
Location and Mode
| Location | Mode of Internship |
|---|---|
| OECD Headquarters, Paris, France | Primarily on-site, with partial remote work possible depending on profile and project requirements |
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Minimum 3 months (preference for 6 months) |
| Working Hours | Full-time (40 hours/week) preferred; part-time (minimum 60%) possible |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Policy and Legal Analysts under the supervision of the Head of IIGU |
| Department | Investment Division, Directorate for Financial and Enterprise Affairs (DAF) |
Workstreams and Responsibilities
Interns may be assigned to one or both of the following workstreams based on expertise and interest:
Workstream 1 – Investment Treaties
- Conduct research and analysis on investment treaty design, interpretation, and policy frameworks.
- Support preparation of working papers and policy briefs related to investment protection standards.
- Collect and process data on investment treaties, including substantive standards and treaty structures.
- Contribute to meetings, assist in documentation, and help prepare analytical notes on treaty-related reforms.
Workstream 2 – Investment Screening and National Security Policies
- Research legislation and data on investment screening mechanisms in OECD member countries and beyond.
- Analyze legal and institutional arrangements safeguarding national security interests.
- Process and visualize complex datasets to support evidence-based policymaking.
- Draft concise summaries and assist in organizing policy discussions and workshops.
Eligibility & Requirements
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Master’s degree student in International Economic Law, Economic Law, International Relations, or related fields |
| Skills Required | Excellent research and drafting skills, understanding of international investment law, public international law, and comparative legal analysis |
| Language Proficiency | Excellent command of English or French; working knowledge of the other is an asset |
| Experience (Preferred) | Prior exposure to policy analysis, legal research, or empirical data analysis in international law or governance |
| Technical Skills | Familiarity with handling micro-data and econometric tools is an asset |
| Soft Skills | Analytical rigor, communication skills, cross-cultural adaptability, and diplomatic sensitivity |
| Enrollment Requirement | Must be enrolled in a full-time degree-awarding program for the duration of the internship |
Additional Highlights
- Stipend: EUR 1,000 per month (for full-time interns)
- Certificate of Completion issued by the OECD upon successful completion
- Opportunity to work in an international, multicultural environment
- Exposure to global policymaking and cross-sectoral collaboration
- Possible remote flexibility depending on project and candidate background
How to Apply
Step 1:
Apply through the official OECD Internship Programme Application Form:
🔗 OECD Internship Programme
Step 2:
Send your CV and Cover Letter via email to the following addresses:
- anne-charlotte.cervello@oecd.org
- faraz.moosa@oecd.org
- bianca.nalbandian@oecd.org
- sophie.bohnert@oecd.org
Subject Line Format:
Internship Application – [Your Full Name] – [Workstream 1 / Workstream 2 / Both]
Deadline: 15 November 2025 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
FAQs – Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD
1. Who can apply for this Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD?
Master’s students in International Economic Law, International Relations, or related disciplines enrolled in a full-time degree program are eligible to apply.
2. Is this Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD paid or unpaid?
Yes, interns receive a EUR 1,000 monthly contribution toward living expenses for full-time engagement.
3. What is the last date to apply?
The deadline to apply is 15 November 2025, but applications may be considered on a rolling basis until positions are filled.
4. What is the selection process?
Candidates are shortlisted based on academic qualifications, research background, and cover letter quality. Interviews may be conducted for final selection.
5. Will I get a certificate after completion?
Yes. Interns who successfully complete the internship will receive a Certificate of Completion from the OECD.
Important Links
| Category | Link / Details |
|---|---|
| Application Form | anne-charlotte.cervello@oecd.org; faraz.moosa@oecd.org; bianca.nalbandian@oecd.org; sophie.bohnert@oecd.org |
| Organization Website | www.oecd.org |
Downloadables
Sample Cover Letter
brochure
Contact Information
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Emails | anne-charlotte.cervello@oecd.org; faraz.moosa@oecd.org; bianca.nalbandian@oecd.org; sophie.bohnert@oecd.org |
| Address | OECD Headquarters, Paris, France |
Why Apply for the Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD
The Legal Internship Opportunity at OECD provides aspiring policy and legal professionals with the chance to engage in international investment law and policy research at a global scale. Working alongside experts from 38 member countries, interns will gain deep insights into investment treaties, national security frameworks, and the intersection of law and global governance. With a stipend, mentorship, and exposure to real-world policymaking, this internship stands as one of the most prestigious global legal training experiences available in 2026.
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