UNITAR's Immersion Programmes offer an exclusive opportunity for participants to engage with the United Nations and its agencies through in-person field visits to key UN hubs. These five-day programmes are designed to immerse participants in the workings of international diplomacy, global governance, and UN operations, providing direct access to experts, UN institutions, and multilateral organizations. The programmes consist of expert lectures, workshops, guided tours, and networking opportunities, all crafted to build essential diplomatic and international relations skills. Participants will also gain insight into potential career paths within the UN system, enriching their professional and personal development in international affairs.

Geneva

Geneva, Switzerland, home to numerous international organizations and UN agencies, is a crucial center for multilateral diplomacy. The UNITAR Immersion Programme in Geneva offers participants a deep dive into the work of the United Nations at the Palais des Nations, providing first-hand exposure to international diplomacy. 

Activities will include:

  • Expert lectures and training workshops hosted at the UN headquarters in Geneva.
  • Insights into the operations of key Geneva-based agencies such as the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
  • A special focus on career development within the UN.

Available: February / May / July / August (annually)   |  Learn more and register here

The Hague

Known as the "City of Peace and Justice," The Hague is home to some of the world's most important legal institutions. The Hague Immersion Programme focuses on international law and justice, providing participants with access to key UN bodies such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC). 

Highlights of the programme include:

  • Workshops on legal mechanisms and international diplomacy.
  • Private guided tours of UN institutions, including the Peace Palace, home to the ICJ.
  • Public hearing sessions and networking opportunities with legal experts.

Available: July (annually)   |  Learn more and register here

Vienna

Vienna, Austria, is one of the four major UN offices and a hub for international organizations focused on disarmament, non-proliferation, and international law. The Vienna Immersion Programme offers participants a chance to engage with agencies such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). 

Participants can expect:

  • Expert lectures, workshops, and tours of key UN institutions in Vienna.
  • Diplomatic simulation exercises and career development sessions.
  • Visits to major international organizations including the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) and the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA).

Available: September (annually)   |   Learn more and register here

Nairobi

As the UN’s headquarters in Africa, Nairobi hosts key agencies such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and UN-Habitat. The Nairobi Immersion Programme provides participants with in-depth exposure to the UN’s work in sustainable development, urban planning, and humanitarian assistance. 

Key features include:

  • Expert-led lectures and workshops on diplomacy and multilateralism.
  • Private tours and visits to Nairobi-based UN agencies such as UNEP, UN-Habitat, and the World Food Programme (WFP).
  • Career development sessions focused on leadership and competency-based interview skills.

Available: March (annually)   |   Learn more and register here

All UNITAR Immersion Programmes are open to a wide range of participants, including professionals from the public and private sectors, non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and academia. University students and individuals from diverse backgrounds with a strong interest in the United Nations, international diplomacy, and global governance are equally encouraged to apply. No specific prior experience with the UN is required, making these programmes accessible to anyone eager to deepen their understanding of multilateral affairs and diplomacy.

To ensure the highest quality learning experience, each programme is limited to a maximum of 30 participants per field visit. Slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will receive a UNITAR certificate of completion, demonstrating their commitment to and understanding of key UN processes and international relations.

How to Register:

  1. Visit the relevant event page for your chosen Immersion Programme.
  2. Click "Registration" and add the programme to your cart.
  3. Complete the checkout process by creating a profile and filling out the required sections.
  4. Choose your payment method: (i) credit card or (ii) bank transfer.
  5. Confirm your payment to finalize your registration. UNITAR will follow up with you via email for next steps.

For inquiries about scholarships or additional programme details, please contact: multilateralism@unitar.org.

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