Join the WTO Young Professionals Programme 2025-2026

Eugen2 weeks ago

3 minutes read

Application Deadline: April 21, 2025
Contract Type: Young Professionals
Monthly Salary: CHF 4,000

The World Trade Organization (WTO) is excited to announce the opening of its Young Professionals Programme (YPP) for 2026. This unique initiative aims to attract talented young professionals who are eager to enhance their understanding of international trade and contribute to the mission of the WTO.

About the WTO Young Professionals Programme

The YPP is designed for qualified candidates up to the age of 32 as of January 1, 2026. It specifically targets young professionals from WTO Member countries that have low or no professional representation within the WTO Secretariat. Through this program, participants will gain valuable work experience, develop their skills, and contribute to the organization’s work in various areas related to international trade.

Why Apply?

By joining the WTO through this prestigious program, successful candidates will:

Gain Practical Experience: Engage in meaningful work within the WTO Secretariat, directly contributing to essential areas of international trade.
Develop Expertise: Learn from experienced professionals in a multicultural environment, expanding their knowledge and skills in international trade issues.
Contribute to Global Trade Governance: Play an integral role in broadening the representation of underrepresented WTO Members within the organization.

This one-year program offers a unique pathway to build a career in international trade and develop a robust understanding of the multilateral trading system.

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit their applications in English, accompanied by a cover letter of motivation. In the cover letter, applicants should indicate up to three areas of work (from the list below) in order of preference that they would like to participate in:

Accessions
Agriculture
Climate Change
Communications and External Relations
Competition Policy
Council and Trade Negotiations
Digital Trade
Dispute Settlement
Economic Research and Statistics
Fisheries Subsidies
Government Procurement (GPA)
Intellectual Property Rights
Investment Facilitation for Development
Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs)
Market Access (tariffs and non-tariff barriers)
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures
Technical Barriers to Trade
Trade and Development
Trade and Environment/Climate Change
Trade Facilitation
Trade Finance
Trade and Gender
Trade in Services and Investment
Trade Policy Analysis
Trade-Related Technical Assistance
Trade Remedies (anti-dumping and countervailing duties)

Please note: Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

Required Qualifications

To be eligible for the YPP, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Education: An advanced university degree in economics, international relations, law, environmental studies, or other trade-related subjects pertinent to WTO work.
Knowledge and Skills:
Solid understanding of the WTO’s functions and operations.
Technical knowledge in one or several areas mentioned above.
Strong drafting skills in English (knowledge of French or Spanish will be an advantage).
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multicultural setting.
Work Experience: A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in international trade or related fields.
Language Fluency: Proficiency in English is required, with knowledge of either French or Spanish as a plus.

Who Can Apply?

Preference will be given to nationals from WTO Members with low or no representation, particularly developing and least developed countries (LDCs). Women candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to enhance gender balance within the organization.

The WTO aims to create a diverse and inclusive workforce, representing the members and people it serves.

Important Notes

All applications should be submitted online well before the closing date.
The selection process may involve various assessment methods, including interviews and testing.
Applications will only be accepted from nationals of WTO Members.

Join the WTO Young Professionals Programme and kickstart your career while contributing to shaping global trade policies! For more information, please visit the WTO website at WTO Young Professionals Programme.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a difference in international trade! Apply today!