Traineeships at the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) – Brussels Liaison Office

Location: Brussels, Belgium
Duration: 11 months
Application Deadline: 7 January 2026, 13:30 EET

The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) is inviting applications for its 2026 traineeship programme within the Stakeholder Relations Team of the Outreach and Engagement Unit. These prestigious traineeships offer recent graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in EU policymaking and gender equality work at the heart of Europe.

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About the Programme

Based in EIGE’s Brussels Liaison Office, the traineeships are open to graduates who are nationals of an EU Member State, an EFTA country, or an IPA qualifying country. The programme is designed for graduates in fields such as:

• Communications
• Public Relations
• International or European Studies
• Politics
• Social Policy
• Gender Studies or related disciplines

Trainees will work under the supervision of an EIGE professional and will gain exposure to both the Institute’s work and broader EU institutional processes.

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Key Aims of the Traineeship

The programme aims to:

• Provide on-the-job training in stakeholder engagement and inter-institutional relations
• Enable trainees to apply and expand academic knowledge in real-world EU contexts
• Deepen understanding of gender equality policies and data-driven research
• Offer practical experience inside an EU decentralised agency

EIGE is committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities throughout the selection process.

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Main Tasks

Selected trainees may support the Stakeholder Relations Team across a range of activities, including:

• Supporting the organisation of stakeholder meetings, events, and visits
• Monitoring EU policy developments relevant to gender equality and reporting to the Agency
• Drafting briefings, background notes, and speaking points
• Assisting with the organisation of the bi-annual Gender Equality Forum
• Supporting work on EIGE’s thematic priorities for 2026, including care and combating gender-based violence
• Facilitating exchange between the Brussels office and colleagues in Vilnius
• Performing additional tasks based on team needs and trainee experience

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a recognised university degree (full cycle completed)
• Have strong fluency in spoken and written English
• Possess relevant experience or academic specialization in gender equality or related fields
• Have solid computer skills in a Windows environment
• Not have previously undertaken a traineeship in another EU institution or agency

Additional documents may be required upon selection, including diplomas, proof of nationality, insurance, and medical certification.

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Application Process

The process consists of two stages:

Stage 1: Online Registration

• Complete EIGE’s official application form
• Submit via email to eige.hr@eige.europa.eu
• Email subject must include the applicant’s name + reference number
• Deadline: 7 January 2026, 13:30 (EET)
• Applications must be submitted in English and fully completed to be considered

Stage 2: Supplementary Documentation

(For candidates selected for placement only)

• Submission of diplomas, certificates, insurance, proof of experience, etc.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview. Only selected applicants will be contacted due to the high volume of applications.

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Traineeship Conditions

• Monthly grant: €1,538.16
• Travel allowance: provided under certain conditions
• Location: Brussels, with hybrid office and telework arrangements
• Working environment: collaborative, multicultural, committed to zero tolerance for harassment

Selected trainees must commit to acting independently in the public interest and disclose any conflicts of interest.

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Life in Brussels

Brussels is the political heart of the EU and one of the most multicultural cities in Europe. With a population where almost 40% are foreign nationals, the city offers:

• A dynamic international community
• Rich cultural and architectural heritage
• Excellent public transport and cycling infrastructure
• A welcoming environment for young professionals

EIGE’s office is located in the central Schuman district, close to EU institutions and key amenities.

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