Call for Expression of Interest (EU Delegation): The Junior Professionals in Delegation (JPD) Programme 2025-2026
Application Period: April 1, 2025 – April 30, 2025
Start Date of Traineeship: January 16, 2026
The European External Action Service (EEAS) and the European Commission (EC) are thrilled to announce the opening of the eighth round of the Junior Professionals in Delegation (JPD) Programme. This high-level traineeship initiative provides a unique platform for highly qualified junior professionals from EU Member States to gain invaluable work experience within EU Delegations around the world.
Objectives of the JPD Programme
The JPD Programme is crafted to equip junior European professionals with first-hand experience in the workings of EU Delegations, deepening their understanding of the crucial role these delegations play in executing EU external policies.
Every two years, the EEAS and EC welcome applications for this prestigious programme. In the current round (2023-2025), there were 67 JPD positions available across various EU Delegations, emphasizing the program’s continual commitment to providing impactful learning opportunities.
The framework of the programme is founded on various decisions, including:
- Joint Decision JOIN(2017)22 dated June 19, 2017, which outlines the collaboration between the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
- Decision ADMIN(2017)8 dated June 21, 2017, stipulating the implementing rules for the high-level traineeship programme.
- Subsequent decisions (ADMIN(2021)14 REV 1, ADMIN(2022)57, and ADMIN(2022)74) refining the operational aspects of the programme, ensuring its effectiveness and alignment with EU objectives.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with these decisions before applying.
Who Can Apply?
The JPD Programme is open to candidates who fit the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of an EU Member State.
- Educational Standards: Should possess at least a university degree equivalent to a Master’s degree in a field relevant to the EU Delegations’ activities by the application deadline.
- Language Proficiency: Required to demonstrate an excellent command of English and/or French; proficiency in additional languages is an added benefit.
- Experience: Candidates should have, at the time of application, no more than one year of professional experience within the EEAS, the Commission, or another EU institution or body. While professional experience is not mandatory, candidates with up to four years of relevant experience (maximum of one year with the EEAS, EC, or similar institutions) will be prioritized.
- Interest and Motivation: Genuine enthusiasm for working in an EU Delegation environment, evidenced by relevant professional experience, extracurricular activities, or volunteering, is strongly encouraged.
Where Are the Candidates Posted?
Junior Professionals will be assigned to one of approximately 145 EU Delegations globally. Their placements will depend on the nature of their tasks and may include:
- EEAS Sections: Focused on political, press, and information functions.
- EC Sections: Engaged in international partnerships, programme/project management, and humanitarian affairs.
Number of Traineeship Positions in the 2026–2028 Round
For the upcoming round (2026-2028), the EEAS and EC will offer a minimum of 54 JPD positions (two per Member State), comprising 27 positions in the political, press, and information sections of the EEAS, along with 27 positions in EC sections. There may be additional posts financed through voluntary contributions from EU Member States.
How to Apply
The application process for the eighth round begins on April 1, 2025, and concludes on April 30, 2025.
- Submission: Applications must be directed exclusively to the designated authorities of each EU Member State. Specific details regarding application submission will be available on the respective national authorities’ websites during the application period.
- Single Application: Candidates are permitted to apply through only one Member State. Submitting multiple applications will result in disqualification from the selection process.
- Application Form: Candidates will need to complete an application form, detailing their academic credentials, language proficiency, relevant work experience, extracurricular activities, and motivation for applying. Additionally, candidates should indicate their top three geographical preferences for assignment.
Note: For an optimal experience, it is recommended to download and complete the application form using Adobe Acrobat rather than an internet browser.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates will be multi-tiered:
- Pre-Selection: Conducted by the respective EU Member States.
- Final Selection: Managed by the EEAS and the EC.
Following pre-selection, Member States will submit a shortlist (2-4 candidates per position) to the EEAS and EC, which will subsequently select one candidate from each Member State based on set priorities and preferences.
What We Offer
Selected trainees for the 2026-2028 round will receive a fixed-term traineeship agreement lasting twelve (12) months, with the possibility of a renewal based on a successful mid-term evaluation.
Compensation Includes:
- A monthly allowance of €2,500.
- An accommodation contribution of €1,700.
- A hardship contribution based on the Living Conditions Allowance in the Delegation.
- Additional benefits, including:
- A one-time installation contribution of €2,340 at the beginning of the traineeship.
- Journey costs of €2,926 for each twelve-month period.
- Insurance costs covering €1,800 for each twelve-month period.
Calendar
- Launch of 2026-2028 Round: April 1, 2025
- Deadline for Applications: April 30, 2025
- Submission of Pre-Selected Candidates: End of August 2025
- Selection and Matching Process: September 2025
- Communication of Results: October 2025
- Traineeship Offers to Candidates: October 2025
- Reception of Supporting Documents: October – December 2025
- Start of Traineeship Agreement: January 16, 2026
- Induction Training: Mid-January 2026
- Start of Traineeships in EU Delegations: End of January 2026
Privacy Statement
All candidates should be aware of the privacy protocols associated with the application process and are encouraged to review the relevant privacy documentation before submitting their applications.
This is an exciting opportunity for aspiring professionals to immerse themselves in the European Union’s international activities. Mark your calendars and prepare to submit your application for the JPD Programme. This could be the first step in your career impacting EU external relations and policy implementation globally!
Apply Here
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