Young graduates with a passion for international relations, diplomacy, global development, education, science, and economic cooperation now have an exceptional opportunity to launch their international careers through the Funded EU Delegation Traineeships in Paris 2026.
The Delegation of the European Union to the OECD and UNESCO, as well as to the Principalities of Andorra and Monaco, is inviting applications from highly motivated young graduates for four funded traineeship positions based in Paris, France. This prestigious programme offers participants the opportunity to work directly within the European Union’s diplomatic framework while contributing to international policy discussions and multilateral cooperation.
With traineeships available across multiple sections of the EU Delegation, selected candidates will gain practical experience in international diplomacy, policy analysis, event coordination, research, and stakeholder engagement while working alongside experienced professionals representing the European Union on the global stage.
Application Deadline: 22 June 2026
About the EU Delegation Traineeship Programme
The European Union Delegation to the OECD and UNESCO plays a critical role in representing EU interests, values, and policies within some of the world’s most influential international organizations.
This funded traineeship programme is specifically designed to provide recent graduates with valuable exposure to the workings of diplomatic missions and multilateral institutions. Participants will work closely with EU officials and gain insights into how international organizations collaborate to address global challenges.
The traineeships will be hosted in Paris, one of the world’s leading diplomatic and international cooperation hubs.
Available Traineeship Positions
A total of four funded traineeships are available across different sections of the EU Delegation:
1. Head of Delegation Office Traineeships
Two positions are available within the Head of Delegation Office:
- Head of Delegation Office – OECD
- Head of Delegation Office – UNESCO/Andorra and Monaco
2. UNESCO and External Relations/Development Section
Two additional traineeship positions are available in:
- UNESCO Section
- External Relations and Development Section
These placements offer direct involvement in the EU’s engagement with international organizations and partner countries.
Why You Should Apply
This traineeship presents a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience in international diplomacy and multilateral cooperation.
Successful candidates will have the chance to:
- Work within an EU diplomatic mission.
- Understand the functioning of international organizations such as UNESCO and the OECD.
- Participate in policy discussions and coordination meetings.
- Contribute to research and policy development.
- Strengthen professional communication and reporting skills.
- Expand their international professional network.
- Gain exposure to multicultural and multilingual working environments.
- Develop practical skills that are highly valued in international careers.
For graduates considering future careers in international organizations, public policy, diplomacy, development cooperation, law, economics, or international affairs, this traineeship can serve as a significant stepping stone.
Main Responsibilities of Trainees
Selected trainees will support the daily activities of the EU Delegation and contribute to a variety of important tasks.
Responsibilities include:
Meeting Preparation and Coordination
- Assisting in the preparation of EU meetings.
- Supporting coordination among EU representatives and stakeholders.
- Preparing briefing materials and background documentation.
Participation in International Meetings
- Attending EU coordination meetings.
- Participating in relevant international meetings.
- Observing diplomatic discussions and policy exchanges.
Reporting and Documentation
- Taking notes during meetings.
- Drafting reports and meeting summaries.
- Preparing analytical documents and internal briefings.
Research and Policy Analysis
- Conducting research on EU-related issues.
- Supporting policy monitoring and analysis.
- Producing research papers on topics relevant to EU priorities.
Event Organization
- Assisting with planning and organizing events hosted by the EU Delegation.
- Supporting logistical and administrative arrangements.
- Contributing to communication and outreach activities.
These responsibilities provide participants with comprehensive exposure to the operational and strategic dimensions of diplomatic work.
Duration and Start Date
The traineeships will last for up to five months.
Selected candidates are expected to begin their traineeship between:
- 1 September 2026
- 15 September 2026
The exact starting date will be confirmed by the EU Delegation.
Applicants who are unable to start by 15 September 2026 will not be considered for the programme.
Funding and Financial Support
The programme offers financial support through a monthly grant.
Each selected trainee will receive:
- A monthly allowance intended to help cover living expenses during the traineeship.
However, applicants should note that the following expenses remain their responsibility:
- International travel costs.
- Visa fees.
- Health and travel insurance.
- Accommodation expenses.
- Other personal living costs beyond the grant.
Candidates should carefully assess their financial preparedness before accepting a placement.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the traineeship programme, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Academic Requirements
Applicants should possess:
- A university degree in a relevant field.
Relevant disciplines may include:
- International Relations
- Economics
- Law
- Political Science
- Public Policy
- Development Studies
- Other related fields
A Master’s degree is considered an advantage but is not mandatory.
Professional Experience Requirement
Candidates must:
- Have less than one year of professional experience after graduation at the time of signing the traineeship agreement.
The following do not count as professional experience:
- Student jobs
- Volunteer work
- Previous traineeships
- Activities conducted during university studies
Language Requirements
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Excellent command of English.
- Strong drafting and writing skills.
- Ability to pass a written assessment if requested.
In addition:
- Knowledge of French is desirable and considered an asset.
Personal Qualities
The Delegation is seeking candidates who are:
- Highly motivated.
- Proactive.
- Interested in international cooperation.
- Enthusiastic about diplomacy and multilateral affairs.
- Capable of working in diverse international environments.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications by email.
Required Documents
Applicants must provide:
- A detailed Europass Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A cover letter explaining their motivation for joining the EU traineeship programme.
- A completed application form.
Important: CVs submitted in formats other than Europass will not be considered.
Email Submission
Applications should be sent to:
DELEGATION-PARIS-TRAINEES@eeas.europa.eu
Subject Line Requirement
Applicants must indicate:
“Funded Traineeship – Name/Acronym of the Section”
Only one traineeship application per delegation is permitted. However, the Delegation may consider candidates for alternative sections based on their qualifications and profile.
Important Information for Applicants
Candidates are strongly encouraged to carefully review all eligibility requirements before applying.
Due to the high number of applications and limited available positions:
- Only candidates meeting all eligibility requirements will be considered.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews.
- Unsuccessful applicants will be informed by email.
- Applications lacking required documentation may be rejected.
Selected candidates must also comply with applicable local legislation and any legal requirements related to residence permits or visas.
EU citizens may additionally need to provide:
- Proof of insurance coverage, including pandemic-related risks.
- Documentation related to repatriation coverage where required.
- Appropriate visa or residence documentation if applicable.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
The Funded EU Delegation Traineeships in Paris represent far more than a traditional internship. They provide direct exposure to international diplomacy, global governance, and multilateral cooperation within leading organizations such as UNESCO and the OECD.
Participants will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic international environment, contribute to meaningful policy discussions, and build skills that can open doors to future careers within international organizations, government institutions, NGOs, development agencies, and diplomatic services.
For ambitious young graduates seeking practical experience at the intersection of international policy and diplomacy, this programme offers an outstanding platform for professional growth and global engagement.
Application Deadline
22 June 2026
Interested candidates should submit complete applications before the deadline to be considered for these highly competitive funded traineeship positions in Paris.
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