OECD Middle East and Africa Division Internship 2026: Launch Your International Policy Career with the OECD

Aspiring policy professionals, researchers, economists, and international development enthusiasts now have an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience at one of the world’s leading international organizations.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Middle East and Africa Division is currently seeking an intern to support the work of the division beginning in September 2026. This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful policy initiatives, regional economic development programmes, and international cooperation efforts focused on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Candidates with an interest in economic development, investment, competitiveness, entrepreneurship, and public policy are strongly encouraged to apply. While not a mandatory requirement, working knowledge of Arabic is considered a significant advantage.

Interested applicants are invited to submit their CV directly to:

sara.mouhoud@oecd.org

About the OECD

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an international organization that works with governments, policymakers, and stakeholders worldwide to develop evidence-based policies that promote prosperity, equality, opportunity, and well-being.

The OECD serves as a global platform for policy dialogue, research, data analysis, and international cooperation, helping countries address economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Working within the OECD provides unparalleled exposure to international policymaking, research, and development initiatives that influence governments and institutions across the globe.

About the Middle East and Africa Division

The OECD Middle East and Africa Division plays a crucial role in strengthening partnerships and supporting policy reforms across countries in the Middle East and North Africa region.

The division works closely with governments, policymakers, private sector stakeholders, development partners, and international institutions to promote:

• Economic growth
• Sustainable development
• Investment promotion
• Private sector development
• Entrepreneurship
• Job creation
• Economic competitiveness
• Youth empowerment
• Women’s economic participation

Through research, policy dialogue, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives, the division contributes to the economic transformation and resilience of countries throughout the region.

The MENA-OECD Competitiveness Programme

One of the flagship initiatives supported by the OECD Middle East and Africa Division is the MENA-OECD Competitiveness Programme.

Established in 2005 at the request of governments across the Middle East and North Africa, the programme serves as a strategic partnership between OECD and MENA economies.

For over two decades, the programme has facilitated:

• Knowledge exchange
• Policy dialogue
• Capacity building
• Sharing of international best practices
• Investment promotion initiatives
• Entrepreneurship development
• Economic reform support

As the programme celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025, it continues to serve as a critical platform for fostering inclusive, sustainable, and competitive economies throughout the region.

Objectives of the MENA-OECD Competitiveness Programme

The programme operates under the mandate of the 2021 Ministerial Declaration and focuses on supporting reforms that help countries:

1. Mobilize Investment

The programme supports efforts to:

• Improve investment climates
• Attract foreign direct investment
• Strengthen investor confidence
• Enhance regulatory frameworks

2. Strengthen Private Sector Development

Activities focus on:

• Business environment reforms
• SME development
• Competitiveness enhancement
• Innovation promotion

3. Foster Entrepreneurship

The programme supports:

• Startup ecosystems
• Entrepreneurial capacity building
• Innovation-driven growth
• Youth entrepreneurship initiatives

4. Promote Inclusive Growth

A major emphasis is placed on creating opportunities for:

• Young people
• Women
• Emerging entrepreneurs
• Underserved communities

Countries Participating in the Programme

The MENA-OECD Competitiveness Programme currently engages 18 economies:

1. Algeria
2. Bahrain
3. Djibouti
4. Egypt
5. Iraq
6. Jordan
7. Kuwait
8. Lebanon
9. Libya
10. Mauritania
11. Morocco
12. Oman
13. Palestinian Authority
14. Qatar
15. Saudi Arabia
16. Tunisia
17. United Arab Emirates
18. Yemen

These countries collaborate with OECD member states to exchange expertise and develop policies that support economic transformation and sustainable development.

How the Programme Operates

The programme functions through a structured governance framework that includes:

High-Level Ministerial Meetings

Senior government officials and policymakers gather to:

• Set strategic priorities
• Discuss regional challenges
• Share policy experiences
• Coordinate reform efforts

Annual Steering Group Meetings

The Steering Group monitors:

• Programme implementation
• Progress toward objectives
• Future priorities
• Regional cooperation initiatives

Regional Policy Dialogues

The programme organizes policy discussions across multiple thematic work streams to encourage knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving.

Country-Specific Projects

Tailored support is provided through:

• Dedicated Country Programmes
• Bilateral initiatives
• Technical assistance projects
• Capacity-building activities

Notable examples include:

• OECD Country Programme with Egypt
• Bilateral initiatives with Morocco
• Bilateral initiatives with Saudi Arabia

What the OECD Internship Could Involve

Although specific responsibilities have not been publicly detailed, interns in OECD divisions commonly contribute to:

Research and Analysis

• Conducting background research
• Reviewing policy developments
• Analyzing economic and social data
• Supporting report preparation

Programme Support

• Assisting with project coordination
• Supporting event organization
• Preparing briefing materials
• Contributing to programme activities

Stakeholder Engagement

• Supporting communication with partners
• Assisting with outreach activities
• Coordinating meetings and workshops

Knowledge Management

• Compiling research findings
• Drafting summaries and reports
• Supporting publication development

Benefits of the Internship

An internship with the OECD offers numerous professional advantages.

International Experience

Gain firsthand experience working within a globally respected international organization.

Policy Exposure

Develop an understanding of:

• Economic policymaking
• International cooperation
• Development strategies
• Regional reform initiatives

Professional Networking

Interact with:

• OECD experts
• Government officials
• International development practitioners
• Researchers
• Policy specialists

Career Development

The experience can strengthen future career prospects in:

• International organizations
• Government ministries
• Development agencies
• Think tanks
• Research institutions
• Consulting firms
• Multilateral organizations

Why Arabic Language Skills Are Valuable

The Middle East and Africa Division works extensively with stakeholders across the MENA region.

As a result, candidates with working knowledge of Arabic may benefit from:

• Enhanced communication with regional partners
• Greater understanding of regional contexts
• Ability to engage with Arabic-language materials
• Increased effectiveness in programme activities

However, Arabic remains an asset rather than a mandatory requirement.

How to Apply

Click here for more and to apply

Why You Should Apply

An internship with the OECD Middle East and Africa Division provides a rare opportunity to contribute to meaningful policy work that supports economic transformation, entrepreneurship, investment, and sustainable development across the MENA region.

For students and young professionals seeking a career in international affairs, economics, public policy, or development, this internship offers valuable exposure to global policymaking processes and the chance to work alongside leading experts shaping the future of economic cooperation and reform.

Candidates interested in launching an international policy career are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

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