Introduction

Are you a recent graduate or young professional looking to make a difference in pan-African development and policy? A compensated, esteemed chance to develop transnational networks, advance your career, and obtain profound insights into continental issues is provided by the African Union (AU) Internship Program 2025. From research till the start of your internship, this comprehensive handbook will be your constant companion.

What Is the African Union Internship Program?

The AU, Africa’s leading continental organization, was established in 2002 and works on infrastructure, security, governance, and health. Talented interns are invited to join departments in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, every year.
Interns are assigned to portfolios such as Political Affairs, Humanitarian Affairs, Trade, Infrastructure, and Peace & Security throughout their three to six-month internships.

Benefits of the AU Internship

Skill Development

You’ll sharpen project management, research, and official communication skills by supporting AU initiatives.

Professional Networking

Work alongside AU staff, international experts, and interns from across the continent—building a powerful professional network.

Certification & Credibility

Internships culminate in an AU certificate, enhancing your CV and making you stand out in public and private sectors.

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of an AU member state

• Age: Typically between 21–35 years

• Education: Enrolled in or completed Bachelor’s/Master’s in relevant fields

• Languages: Proficiency in at least one official AU language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese)

• Additional: Relevant internships, volunteer experience, and strong references boost your application

Available Internship Areas

• Political Affairs & Governance: research constitutional reforms, democracy support

• Humanitarian Affairs & Health: pandemic response, health systems building

• Economic Affairs: trade policy, regional integration, investment promotion

• Infrastructure & ICT: transport, digital development

• Peace & Security: conflict analysis, peacekeeping coordination

Application Timeline

• Applications open: February/March 2025

• Deadline: May 2025

• Shortlisting: June–July 2025

• Interviews: July–August 2025

• Internships start: September/October 2025

Preparing Your Application

Gather these essential documents:

• Academic transcripts

• UPDATED CV showcasing academic history, internships, and volunteer work

• Motivation letter (300–500 words) aligned with chosen portfolio

• Language proficiency proof, if required

• Civic ID or passport copy

Online Application Process

1. Register on the AU ECOSOCC portal (name, nationality, credentials)

2. Select “Internship Program 2025” and your chosen department(s)

3. Upload documents in PDF, verifying readability

4. Submit before the deadline and await confirmation email

Selection and Shortlisting

Applications are evaluated on:

• Academic background and relevant experience

• Quality of motivation and alignment with AU goals

• Language skills and clarity

• Engagement and leadership experience

Shortlisted candidates undergo virtual interviews with department officials. Those who shine in interviews receive internship offers.

Final Selection & Onboarding

Once selected, you’ll get an offer letter, start visa procedures, arrange travel to Addis Ababa, and complete onboarding steps—training sessions, orientation, and department integration.

Life as an AU Intern

Expect to:

• Collaborate on real-world AU initiatives

• Attend internal briefings, meetings, and events

• Work under mentorship

• Engage in cultural exchange in a cosmopolitan Addis Ababa

Deliverables may include research briefings, policy memos, or reports. Your contribution is meaningful and impactful.

Post-Internship Prospects

After graduating, you will be eligible for employment options with AU agencies, non-governmental organizations, and regional organizations, as well as obtain an AU diploma and become a member of the AU alumni network. Many interns go on to work in public service, policy, or diplomacy.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Highlight cross-cultural, volunteer, or humanitarian work in your CV

• Tailor your motivation letter to the AU’s agenda and your aspirations

• Demonstrate strong language skills and clear writing

• Showability to work in multicultural teams

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete or unclear applications

• Missing deadlines (no extensions offered)

• Generic motivation letters missing relevance to AU

• Ignoring language requirements

African Union Internship Program 2025:

While this video is titled for 2024, the process hasn’t changed significantly—registration, department selection, document uploads, and interviews all follow the same steps in 2025.

 Why This Video Matters

• It provides an easy-to-follow walkthrough of creating your profile and submitting an application.

• Although focused on 2024, the portal layout and requirements remain consistent.

• A great visual complement to the written guide you’re following.

Next Steps

1. Watch the video to understand the portal interface and application format.

2. Use my detailed blog guide below to ensure you have the right documents, motivation letters, and language qualifications in place.

3. Get started on the AU Careers portal ahead of the 2025 application window to avoid delays.

Conclusion

The African Union Internship Program 2025 is an opportunity that will shape your career, not just another internship. Through formal recognition, exposure to the continent, and professional development, this initiative helps young Africans advance into leadership positions. Get your paperwork ready right away if you qualify. This is where your path to continental influence starts.

Apply now via the AU Internship Portal: https://careers.au.int/en/internships