Join QUNO as a Programme Assistant in Geneva – Human Impacts of Climate Change & Human Rights & Refugees 2026-2027

Are you an emerging professional passionate about international affairs, human rights, or climate action? The Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO) in Geneva is now accepting applications for Programme Assistant positions for the 2026–2027 term. These roles provide a unique opportunity for young professionals to gain hands-on experience within the UN system while working under the guidance of Quaker values and principles. Candidates can choose to support either the Human Impacts of Climate Change (HICC) programme or the Human Rights & Refugees (HRR) programme, both central to QUNO’s mission of advancing peace, justice, and sustainable development.

About the Roles

QUNO’s Programme Assistants play an integral part in supporting international advocacy and research initiatives. The HICC Programme Assistant will assist the Programme Representative in linking climate policy at the UN with human rights and local action, helping to promote ethical, science-based, and human-centered approaches to climate change. Responsibilities include research, drafting reports and briefing notes, facilitating meetings, and contributing to QUNO’s communications and social media channels.

Similarly, the HRR Programme Assistant will support work related to human rights in the context of migration, conscientious objection, and international human rights advocacy. This includes attending and reporting on UN meetings, preparing materials for the UN Human Rights Council, assisting with the Quaker UN Summer School, and supporting QUNO’s broader human rights initiatives.

Both roles combine programme support with administrative responsibilities, such as event coordination, database maintenance, technical assistance, and contributing to QUNO’s office culture and community.

Why This Opportunity Matters

QUNO is at the intersection of Quaker values and multilateral diplomacy. These Programme Assistant positions offer emerging professionals a rare opportunity to gain practical insight into UN processes, environmental governance, and human rights advocacy. Working in a small, collaborative team, Programme Assistants contribute directly to advancing QUNO’s work in climate justice, human rights, and sustainable economic systems.

The roles also provide an immersive introduction to international advocacy, research, and diplomacy, with exposure to UN bodies, civil society networks, and diplomatic missions. Candidates develop transferable skills in research, writing, communication, and programme management while learning how ethical and values-driven approaches can influence global policy.

What Participants Will Gain

• Hands-on experience in international diplomacy and UN advocacy, observing and contributing to real-world policy discussions.
• Professional and career development, including writing reports, briefing papers, and managing projects within key UN processes.
• Networking opportunities with UN professionals, diplomats, NGOs, and civil society organizations.
• Experience in programme coordination, including involvement in the Quaker UN Summer School and broader office initiatives.

Who Can Apply

Candidates should be recent graduates or early-career professionals with an active interest in international affairs, climate policy, or human rights, and a strong alignment with Quaker values. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree or equivalent, excellent English communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a small team. Familiarity with UN systems, French or another UN language, or previous relevant experience is an advantage but not essential.

Due to Swiss immigration requirements, applicants must either:

• be nationals of Switzerland or an EU/EFTA state, or
• for exceptional candidates from certain partner countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia), QUNO may assist in applying for a work visa, or
• already hold legal permission to work in Switzerland for the contract duration.

Programme Location and Duration

• Geneva, Switzerland
• 31 August 2026 – 30 August 2027
• Gross monthly salary: CHF 4,262 (approx. CHF 3,600 net after deductions)
• Benefits include a return travel ticket, limited French language course budget, 27 days paid holiday, and support with accommodation at the Grand Morillon residence.

Application Process and Deadline

To apply, candidates must complete the specific Programme Assistant application form for the role they are interested in:

• HICC Programme Assistant: Email completed form to qunojob2@quno.ch with subject line “Programme Assistant, HICC.”
• HRR Programme Assistant: Email completed form to qunojob1@quno.ch with subject line “Programme Assistant, HRR.”

Applications must be submitted by Friday, 8 May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews during the week of 25 May 2026. Candidates are encouraged to structure their personal statement around commitment to Quaker values, analytical and communication skills, and how their experience aligns with the programme’s focus.

Learn more and apply on the official job posting.

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