Different types of international development organisations

International development is now a multibillion-pound global sector, with opportunities that span from logistics and administration to front-line delivery in humanitarian or long-term development programmes. If you’re considering a career in this field, it’s useful to understand the different types of organisations that operate within it, and what they offer in terms of roles, recruitment, and responsibilities.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

NGOs operate independently of direct government control but often collaborate with government bodies for funding or access. While technically autonomous, many NGOs still align with national or international frameworks to facilitate their work.

Well-known NGOs

Well-established NGOs like Oxfam, Save the Children, and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) deliver aid worldwide. These organisations tend to receive many applications and can be highly selective. A few years of relevant experience, especially with smaller or regional NGOs, can improve your chances of employment.

There has also been an increase in specialised NGOs with a “development,” “humanitarian,” or “dual mandate” focus.

  • Development-focused NGOs implement long-term solutions to improve health, education, or infrastructure.
  • Humanitarian-focused NGOs respond to immediate crises, such as natural disasters or conflict zones.
  • Dual mandate NGOs do both, often shifting focus depending on global needs.

Smaller NGOs may be less selective but often provide opportunities for rapid skills development and broader responsibilities. Practical experience, even as a volunteer, is often valued as highly (or more highly) than academic qualifications.

International development organisations

Many global bodies operate long-standing international development programmes, including:

  • UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)
  • WHO (World Health Organization)
  • WFP (World Food Programme)
  • World Bank
  • UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund)

Securing employment at headquarters or regional hubs within these organisations is highly competitive. Entry points often include:

  • Young Professional Programmes
  • Graduate internships or traineeships
  • PhD or Master’s-level qualifications in a relevant field
  • Experience in field offices or affiliated national bodies

Local experience can be a key stepping stone to future HQ-level work. Many development professionals spend years working in regional offices or on contracts before securing more permanent or senior roles.

National governments

Government departments also play a major role in funding and implementing international development projects.

In the UK, for example, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) oversees aid programmes. Other prominent government agencies include:

  • French Development Agency (AFD)
  • GIZ (German Development Cooperation)
  • European Commission Directorate-General for International Partnerships (formerly EuropeAid)

Historically, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been a major player in global development. However, as of early 2025, USAID has significantly scaled back its operations under the current U.S. administration, placing most staff on administrative leave and initiating a large workforce reduction. While essential functions remain, its future scope and staffing remain uncertain.

However, most of these organisations offer:

  • Graduate entry or fast-track schemes
  • Internships
  • Specialist roles in health, governance, infrastructure, and education

Many roles require a combination of language skills, sector expertise, and willingness to travel. Most national governments prioritise hiring local staff for field offices but also maintain overseas and domestic postings for international candidates.

Employment laws and duty of care

Whether you’re a volunteer or salaried employee, you are still entitled to legal protections. Organisations have a duty of care to safeguard their staff, both at home and abroad. This includes:

  • Safe working conditions
  • Access to medical care or evacuation where necessary
  • Protection from discrimination, harassment, or unsafe environments

Graduate training schemes are often a stepping stone to permanent employment, providing structured support to develop core competencies and practical experience.

To conclude –

Breaking into international development is challenging due to strong competition, but it’s far from impossible. Many start with volunteer work, internships, or local roles that lead to regional and eventually international opportunities.

The most successful candidates often combine:

  • A relevant degree or postgraduate qualification
  • Practical field experience (paid or voluntary)
  • Flexibility, resilience, and strong cross-cultural communication skills

If you’re serious about working in international development, consider targeting a specific type of organisation and building experience that matches their recruitment needs. Whether it’s an NGO, a global institution, or a government agency, there are many pathways into this rewarding sector.