Human Rights, Legal Affairs, and Sustainable Development Internship

The Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations in New York is offering several full-time internship opportunities for graduates interested in international affairs, diplomacy, human rights, international law, peace and security, and sustainable development. The internships are scheduled to begin on 1 February 2027, run for six months, and may be extended for another six months, making the total possible duration 12 months.

According to the official internship announcement, the positions offer a gross monthly salary of US$3,600. Successful candidates will gain firsthand experience working alongside Swiss diplomatic staff and engaging with the work of the United Nations, its member states, other diplomatic missions, academia, and civil society organisations.

There are four available work areas: Peace and Security; Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Affairs; Human Rights; and Legal Affairs. Each area has a distinct focus, allowing applicants to select the position that best matches their academic background, professional interests, and relevant knowledge.

The opportunity is based in New York City, United States. Applications must be submitted by email, with all required documents combined into a single PDF file. The deadline is Sunday, 1 November 2026.

However, applicants should pay close attention to the eligibility rules. Candidates must either be Swiss citizens or reside in Switzerland and hold a valid Swiss residence and work permit covering the entire employment period. They must also meet the language requirements and have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree within the 18 months preceding the internship start date.

About the Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations

The Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations represents Switzerland in the UN system and engages in diplomatic discussions, negotiations, and international cooperation on issues of global importance.

Located in New York, the Mission works with diplomats from other countries, UN officials, international organisations, and civil society representatives. Its work involves preparing policy positions, participating in meetings, supporting negotiations, and communicating Switzerland’s views on international issues.

The internship programme gives selected candidates an opportunity to observe and support this work directly. Interns will work closely with diplomatic staff, contribute to specific thematic files, and gain an understanding of the procedures and discussions that shape international diplomacy.

The experience is particularly relevant for graduates seeking careers in international relations, public policy, international law, human rights, development, humanitarian affairs, or multilateral diplomacy.

Key Details of the Switzerland UN Internship Programme

Source: Official internship announcement supplied with this opportunity.

Financial Benefits and Professional Experience

1. Monthly Salary of US$3,600

The internship offers a gross monthly salary of US$3,600. This provides financial remuneration during the internship period, although the advertised amount is before any applicable taxes or deductions.

Over the initial six-month period, the gross salary would total US$21,600 if paid at the stated monthly rate for all six months. If an extension is granted and the internship continues for 12 months at the same rate, the gross total would be US$43,200.

These totals are calculations based on the advertised monthly salary, not a guarantee of an extension or the final amount received after deductions.

2. Firsthand Experience in International Diplomacy

Interns will gain direct experience at a Swiss diplomatic mission working within the United Nations environment.

They will work closely with diplomatic staff and gain insight into the workings of the UN and its member states. This experience can help graduates understand how international issues are discussed, how national positions are represented, and how diplomatic negotiations are prepared.

3. Engagement With International Stakeholders

The announcement highlights regular exchanges with UN and foreign diplomats, academia, and civil society organisations.

This exposure offers opportunities to observe how different institutions contribute to international policy discussions and how diplomatic missions interact with other stakeholders.

4. Research, Writing, and Analytical Skills

Interns will gather information, prepare reports and background notes, analyse political developments, and support diplomats working on negotiations.

These tasks can help participants strengthen their research, writing, analytical thinking, and ability to communicate complex information clearly.

5. Experience Supporting Meetings and Events

The positions also involve supporting the organisation of meetings and events, contributing to formal communications, and carrying out administrative duties when required.

Such responsibilities provide experience in the practical work that supports diplomatic engagement and international cooperation.

The precise tasks will depend on the work area assigned to the successful applicant.

Available Internship Positions and Areas of Specialisation

The announcement identifies four work areas, with one position available in each area. Applicants should choose the position that best matches their qualifications and interests.

1. Peace and Security Internship

The Peace and Security internship focuses on political and security issues discussed within major United Nations bodies, particularly the General Assembly and Security Council.

Interns will gather information, prepare political analyses, and draft meeting reports relating to peace and security matters.

The work may involve monitoring international developments, examining diplomatic discussions, and supporting experts preparing for negotiations on relevant issues.

Preferred interests and additional qualifications include:

• Strong interest in foreign and security policy.

• Solid knowledge of current global affairs.

• Knowledge or experience relating to regions such as Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, or the Middle East.

• Familiarity with peacebuilding and conflict prevention.

• Interest in the protection of civilians.

• Knowledge of the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

• Familiarity with the United Nations, particularly the Security Council.

Knowledge or experience in the listed geographic and thematic areas is described as an advantage rather than a universal requirement.

This position may suit graduates interested in international security, conflict prevention, political analysis, multilateral negotiations, and foreign policy.

2. Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Affairs Internship

This internship focuses on sustainable development, humanitarian affairs, and global issues discussed within UN bodies such as the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

Interns will gather information, prepare political analyses, and draft meeting reports on relevant topics. The thematic areas identified in the announcement include health, the environment, migration, and economic issues.

Preferred interests and additional qualifications include:

• Strong interest in development and humanitarian affairs.

• Familiarity with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Understanding of development policy and politics.

• Knowledge of the UN and its development system.

• Familiarity with humanitarian agencies.

• Experience in developing countries.

• Previous work with UN agencies or non-governmental organisations.

Previous experience with UN agencies or NGOs is an advantage, not a stated universal requirement.

This position may be particularly relevant to graduates interested in international development, humanitarian policy, global health, environmental issues, migration, or the implementation of the SDGs.

3. Human Rights Internship

The Human Rights internship focuses on human rights, gender, the advancement of women, and social development within relevant UN bodies, including the General Assembly and ECOSOC.

Interns will gather information, prepare political analyses, and draft meeting reports relating to these themes.

The work offers exposure to international discussions about human rights and the role of diplomatic missions in multilateral policy processes.

Preferred interests and additional qualifications include:

• Strong interest in and a good understanding of human rights.

• Knowledge of international human rights law.

• Familiarity with the UN human rights system.

• Previous work experience in human rights or international relations.

Prior professional experience is listed as an advantage. Applicants should therefore assess the complete eligibility criteria separately from the additional preferences for this work area.

This internship may appeal to graduates interested in human rights advocacy, gender equality, international policy, social development, and international relations.

4. Legal Affairs Internship

The Legal Affairs internship focuses on public international law, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law.

The work involves gathering information, preparing legal analyses, and drafting reports relating to relevant UN bodies, including the General Assembly and Security Council, as well as the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute.

Interns may also support work concerning the practices, procedures, and working methods of UN organs.

Preferred interests and additional qualifications include:

• Ideally, a master’s degree in law specialising in international law, or enrolment in a relevant master’s programme.

• Knowledge of UN legal institutions.

• Familiarity with the International Criminal Court.

• Previous work experience in legal affairs or international relations.

The announcement presents the advanced legal qualification as an ideal profile for this specific position. Applicants should check the official requirements to determine whether their qualifications meet the position’s expectations.

This opportunity may be suitable for law graduates or relevant master’s students interested in international legal institutions, international criminal justice, treaty-related matters, and the legal dimensions of multilateral diplomacy.

General Duties and Responsibilities of Interns

Although each work area has its own subject focus, the announcement lists several general responsibilities expected of interns.

Information gathering and report writing

Interns will collect information, prepare background notes, and draft reports that support diplomatic staff. These tasks require careful research, accurate documentation, and the ability to summarise complex developments.

Support for diplomatic negotiations

Interns will support expert diplomats working on negotiations across various thematic issues. This provides exposure to the preparation and analysis that take place behind international discussions.

Representation at meetings

Interns may represent the Permanent Mission at formal and informal meetings of the United Nations, other diplomatic missions, and non-governmental organisations.

This responsibility makes communication, professionalism, and an understanding of diplomatic settings particularly relevant.

Drafting formal communications

Interns will contribute to drafting formal Swiss interventions and communication materials, including content for social media.

This work may involve preparing clear, accurate messages that reflect the Mission’s positions and communication needs.

Event and meeting organisation

Interns will assist with organising meetings and events hosted by the Permanent Mission. This may require coordination, organisation, and attention to logistical details.

Administrative support

The positions also include administrative tasks as required. Applicants should be prepared to contribute to the practical responsibilities that support the Mission’s daily work.

General Qualifications and Skills Required

The official announcement lists a set of general qualifications expected of applicants across the internship programme.

University degree

Candidates should have a university degree, preferably in international relations, development studies, or law. The formal eligibility section further specifies that applicants must have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree within the required 18-month period.

Research, writing, and analytical skills

Strong writing and analytical skills are expected. Interns must be able to gather information, understand complex topics, and communicate findings clearly.

Interest in global affairs

Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in current political and geopolitical affairs, as well as Swiss foreign policy.

This is particularly relevant because the internships involve supporting diplomatic staff and engaging with international policy issues.

Communication and interpersonal skills

Excellent communication skills are required. The announcement also emphasises strong social and networking skills and enjoyment of intercultural exchanges.

Interns will interact with people from different professional and national backgrounds, making respectful communication and collaboration important.

Organisation, reliability, and flexibility

Applicants should demonstrate strong organisational skills, trustworthiness, reliability, flexibility, and resilience. They should also be capable of working under pressure and connecting ideas across different issues.

Ability to learn quickly

The Mission is looking for candidates who can grasp new concepts and topics quickly. This is relevant to work that may involve unfamiliar political developments, legal issues, negotiations, or changing international priorities.

Familiarity with the United Nations

Knowledge of the UN and its work is an advantage. Applicants who have studied the organisation’s structure, procedures, and international role may find this background useful, although the announcement does not list it as a universal mandatory qualification.

Formal Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following conditions to qualify.

1. Swiss citizenship or valid Swiss residence and work permission

Candidates must either be Swiss citizens or reside in Switzerland and hold a valid Swiss residence and work permit card covering the entire duration of employment.

Applicants must clearly indicate Swiss citizenship or their work permit category on their CV.

2. Excellent English communication skills

Candidates must have excellent written and spoken English.

3. Knowledge of Switzerland’s official languages

Applicants must speak and write fluently in at least one of French, German, or Italian. They must also have passive knowledge of at least one other official Swiss language.

4. Recent completion of a university degree

Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree within the 18 months preceding the internship start date of 1 February 2027.

Based on that start date, applicants should carefully check their graduation date against the 18-month eligibility window. The announcement does not provide further details on how the window is assessed, so candidates with borderline dates should confirm with the Mission.

5. Equal opportunity and inclusion

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) states its commitment to equal opportunity, multilingualism, and the inclusion of people with disabilities. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.

Application Documents Required

Applications must be written in English and submitted as one combined PDF file by email.

The application package must include the following:

1. Application cover page

The cover page should include:

• Full name.

• Language knowledge in English, German, French, Italian, and any other languages, using the levels “Native,” “Fluent,” “Intermediate,” or “Basic.”

• Degree or degrees, including graduation dates or expected graduation dates.

• The position or work area being applied for.

2. Letter of motivation

Applicants must provide a motivation letter of no more than one page.

The letter should explain their interest in the chosen work area, relevant academic background, and reasons for wanting to work at the Permanent Mission. It should be tailored to the specific position rather than used unchanged for all four areas.

3. Curriculum vitae

The CV should clearly present the candidate’s academic qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and language abilities.

It must also indicate Swiss citizenship or the relevant Swiss work permit category.

4. University transcripts and diplomas

Applicants must include their university transcript or transcripts and diploma or diplomas to document their academic qualifications.

5. Letters of recommendation

Letters of recommendation are optional but recommended. Applicants who have suitable academic or professional referees may wish to include them in the application package.

How to Submit Your Application

Follow these steps to prepare and send your application.

1. Choose one work area. Review the four available positions and select the one that best fits your qualifications and interests.

2. Prepare your application in English. Include the required cover page, motivation letter, CV, university transcripts, and diplomas. Add recommendation letters if available.

3. Combine all documents into one PDF. The Mission requests a single PDF containing the complete application package.

4. Use the required naming format. Name the email subject line and the PDF file using: LAST NAME First Name – [Work area] Internship. The official example is MUSTERMANN Erika – SDH Internship.

5. Send the application by email. Address the email to newyork.uninterns@eda.admin.ch.

6. Submit before the deadline. Ensure the application reaches the Mission by Sunday, 1 November 2026.

Candidates may submit separate applications for multiple roles, but the Mission strongly encourages applicants to focus on the one position that best matches their profile.

Interview Process and Selection Test

The announcement states that interviews will, in principle, be conducted within six weeks after the application deadline.

Applicants are asked to refrain from sending follow-up emails or making follow-up calls during this review period.

The selection process will also include a test. The announcement does not specify the test format, subject matter, or scoring system. Applicants should therefore prepare by reviewing the requirements of their chosen work area and strengthening relevant research, writing, analytical, and subject knowledge skills.

Application Deadline and Contact Information

The deadline and submission instructions above are drawn from the supplied official internship document.

For more internship opportunities visit:https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/?s=jobs

Conclusion

The Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations offers four specialised internship opportunities for graduates interested in international diplomacy and global affairs. With a gross monthly salary of US$3,600, an initial six-month term, and the possibility of extension to 12 months, the programme offers both financial remuneration and practical exposure to the work of a diplomatic mission.

The four positions cover peace and security, sustainable development and humanitarian affairs, human rights, and legal affairs. Each provides a different route for applicants to develop their research, writing, analytical, communication, and policy skills while supporting diplomatic work at the United Nations.

However, applicants must pay particular attention to the citizenship or Swiss residence and work permit requirement, the language conditions, and the recent-graduation rule. Meeting these formal conditions is essential before investing time in preparing the application.

Interested candidates should choose the most suitable work area, prepare the complete application in English, combine all documents into a single PDF, and email it to the Mission before 1 November 2026.