Are you a recent graduate interested in diplomacy, international relations, and global policy? The European Union Delegation to Kenya is offering funded traineeships for young graduates in 2026. These six-month placements provide a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a diplomatic mission while contributing to the EU’s work in Kenya.

Successful candidates will join different sections of the EU Delegation and gain practical exposure to policy analysis, trade relations, media engagement, and regional diplomacy. The tentative start date is July 2026, and the application deadline is March 13, 2026.

About the EU Delegation to Kenya

The European External Action Service (EEAS), through the EU Delegation in Kenya, represents the interests and values of the European Union. The Delegation works closely with the Kenyan government, civil society, media, and international partners on political dialogue, trade cooperation, development programs, and regional peace and security.

The traineeship program aims to equip young graduates with professional experience in diplomacy and international affairs while supporting the Delegation’s work in Kenya.

Available Traineeships

1. Political, Press and Information Section (PPI)

This traineeship offers experience in political analysis, communications, and media engagement within the EU Delegation.

Main Responsibilities

• Support the work of the Political, Press and Information Section.

• Monitor political developments in Kenya and contribute to political reporting and analysis.

• Assist with the Delegation’s engagement with Kenyan media.

• Update the Delegation’s website and social media platforms.

• Help design and prepare information and communication materials.

• Conduct press reviews and summarize media coverage.

• Assist in meeting preparation and minute-taking.

• Perform other related duties as required.

2. Head of Delegation / Trade Sections

This traineeship focuses on diplomacy, regional policy monitoring, and EU-Kenya trade relations.

Main Responsibilities

• Support coordination activities led by the Head of Delegation and Deputy Head of Delegation.

• Follow and analyze Kenya’s relations with third countries and its foreign policy objectives.

• Monitor peace and security developments in the region.

• Participate in meetings and prepare flash reports and summaries.

• Support coordination meetings with EU Member States’ embassies.

• Assist with EU economic diplomacy initiatives and trade cooperation.

• Follow developments related to the EU–Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

• Monitor trade and investment trends, fiscal policy, and financial regulations impacting EU-Kenya trade.

• Track market access issues for EU exporters and Kenyan exporters.

• Perform other related tasks as needed.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Hold a university degree in fields such as international relations, political science, security studies, trade relations, journalism, media, or related disciplines (with a focus on African affairs preferred).

• Demonstrate strong analytical, research, and drafting skills.

• Be a team player with good communication abilities.

• Show motivation and commitment to professional and personal development.

• Have knowledge of EU foreign policy priorities, particularly related to Africa (an advantage).

• Possess excellent written and spoken English.

Traineeship Benefits

Selected trainees will receive:

• A monthly grant to help cover living expenses.

• Hands-on experience within a diplomatic mission.

• Exposure to EU foreign policy, diplomacy, and trade relations.

• Opportunities to work with international experts and policymakers.

However, trainees must cover certain costs themselves, including:

• Travel expenses

• Visa costs

• Insurance

• Accommodation

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application via email to:
delegation-kenya-recruitment@eeas.europa.eu

Required Documents

• A standard Europass CV (other formats will not be accepted).

• A cover letter explaining your motivation for the traineeship.

• A completed application form.

In the email subject line, specify one of the following:

• Funded Traineeship – Political, Press & Information Section

• Funded Traineeship – HoD/Trade Sections

Applicants may apply for only one traineeship per delegation, though the Delegation may recommend another section based on your profile.

Click Here, for more details on how to apply.

Important Information

• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

• Unsuccessful applicants will receive notification via email.

• Applications from non-eligible candidates will not be considered.

• Traineeships must comply with local legislation and the laws of the trainee’s country of origin.

For EU citizens, additional requirements include:

• Proof of pandemic risk coverage and repatriation insurance.

• Valid visa or residence permit where required.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the general eligibility criteria for paid traineeships (Article 8 of Decision ADMIN(2017)28) before applying.

Application Deadline

March 13, 2026

Click Here, to discover more Internship Opportunities.