Funded Traineeships at the European Union Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva – Paid EU Diplomatic Traineeship for Young Graduates
The funded traineeships at the European Union (EU) Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva offer young graduates a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience in EU diplomacy, multilateral engagement, and international governance. These paid traineeships are designed for graduates with a strong academic background in international affairs who are eager to understand how the European Union represents its interests and values within the United Nations system and other international organisations based in Geneva.
Organised by the European External Action Service (EEAS), this opportunity places trainees at the heart of EU diplomatic activity in one of the world’s most important multilateral hubs. The EU Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva works closely with UN agencies, international organisations, civil society, and EU Member States, making these traineeships a valuable stepping stone for careers in diplomacy, international relations, and global policy.
The traineeships are funded, time-bound, and available across multiple sections of the EU Delegation, allowing participants to gain practical exposure in areas such as communication, human rights, and labour affairs.
Background: The European Union Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva
The European Union Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva represents the EU and its Member States in multilateral discussions covering human rights, labour standards, humanitarian affairs, and other global policy areas. Geneva hosts numerous UN agencies, including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), making it a strategic location for EU diplomacy.
Through these funded traineeships, the EEAS aims to provide young graduates with structured, professional exposure to the day-to-day work of an EU diplomatic mission operating in a multilateral context.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply
The EU funded traineeships in Geneva have clearly defined eligibility requirements. Only candidates who meet all criteria will be considered.
Educational Requirements
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Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
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Relevant fields include (but are not limited to):
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International Politics
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European Studies
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International Relations
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International Law
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International Economics
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Candidates without a Master’s degree are not eligible for these traineeships.
Professional Experience
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Applicants must have less than one year of professional experience after graduation at the time of signing the traineeship agreement.
Skills and Knowledge
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Demonstrated knowledge of the European Union and the United Nations
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Excellent drafting skills in English
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Knowledge of French is a strong advantage
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Previous internships or experience in the specific section applied for are considered an asset, but not a requirement.
Other Conditions
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Applicants may only apply to one traineeship section per delegation
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Applications from candidates who do not meet the eligibility criteria will not be considered
Traineeship Details: Structure, Duration, and Location
Duration
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4 to 6 months
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Traineeships take place in 2026
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Tentative start dates:
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March/April 2026, or
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Second semester of 2026
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Location
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Geneva, Switzerland
Funding
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Each selected trainee receives a monthly grant to help cover living expenses.
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The following costs must be covered by the trainee:
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Travel expenses
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Visa costs
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Insurance
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Accommodation
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Available Traineeship Sections and Responsibilities
The traineeships are offered in multiple sections, subject to budget availability.
1. Communication Section (Head of Delegation Section)
Key responsibilities include:
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Supporting the Delegation’s social media activities
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Drafting and scheduling social media posts
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Producing videos, photos, and visual content
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Developing new social media campaigns
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Drafting news stories for the Delegation’s website
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Supporting the organisation of events, conferences, and campaigns
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Attending meetings and conferences and drafting reports
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Attending Deputy Head of Delegation meetings and preparing reports
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Carrying out additional tasks assigned by team colleagues
2. Human Rights Section
Key responsibilities include:
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Attending and reporting on Human Rights Council meetings
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Supporting work related to the Universal Periodic Review (UPR)
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Reporting on side events and working groups
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Supporting negotiations on human rights resolutions
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Contributing to the drafting of briefings
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Assisting with research and preparation of statements
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Drafting reports on EU, OHCHR, and human rights-related meetings
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Analysing human rights policies in various countries
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Providing general logistics support
3. Labour Section
Key responsibilities include:
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Preparing background notes and analytical reports
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Summarising meetings of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and other relevant UN agencies
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Supporting EU and EU Member State coordination meetings
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Providing administrative support to the ILO team
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Researching and analysing EU and ILO policy topics
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Liaising with EU Member States
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Supporting preparations for the International Labour Conference
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Attending UN, EU, NGO, academic, and think-tank events
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Assisting with communication and reporting tasks
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Carrying out additional tasks assigned by section colleagues
How to Apply: Application Process
Applications must be submitted by email.
Application Email Address
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
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A detailed Europass CV
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CV must be created using the official Europass format:
https://europa.eu/europass/en -
CVs in other formats will not be considered
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A cover letter explaining motivation for applying for an EU traineeship
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A completed application form
Email Subject Line
Applicants must clearly state in the subject line:
“Funded Traineeship – Name/Acronym of the Section”
Selection Process and Important Notes
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Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview
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Unsuccessful candidates will be informed by email
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Failure to present required documents will result in rejection
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Traineeships are offered in compliance with local legislation and legislation of the trainee’s country of origin
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EU citizens must provide proof of:
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Coverage against pandemic-related risks
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Repatriation insurance
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Important Dates
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Application Deadline: 04 January 2026
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Vacancy Published: 22 December 2025
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Traineeship Period: 2026
Why Apply for the EU Funded Traineeship in Geneva
The EU funded traineeships in Geneva provide a rare opportunity for young graduates to gain professional experience in EU diplomacy, multilateral negotiations, and international policymaking. With structured responsibilities, exposure to high-level international meetings, and a funded framework, this traineeship is particularly valuable for those seeking careers in international organisations, diplomacy, and global governance.
Application Portal
Apply via Email
Footnote
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