The EU Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva is offering fully funded traineeships for young graduates in 2026 across health, disarmament, and economic affairs sections. Apply by 2 February 2026.
Funded EU Traineeships at the United Nations in Geneva 2026
The Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva has announced a new and highly competitive opportunity for young graduates interested in international relations and multilateral diplomacy. Applications are now open for funded traineeships running for three to six months in 2026, with a tentative start date of April 2026. The deadline for applications is 2 February 2026.
These traineeships are designed to offer hands-on experience within a diplomatic mission and provide young professionals with direct exposure to how the European Union represents its interests and values within the United Nations system and other international organisations based in Geneva.
An Immersive Diplomatic Experience
Successful candidates will be fully integrated into the daily work of the EU Delegation, allowing them to gain a comprehensive understanding of EU external action in a multilateral setting. Trainees will work closely with experienced diplomats and policy officers, attend high-level meetings, and contribute to research, reporting, and coordination across a wide range of international policy areas.
The traineeships are available in multiple sections, subject to budget availability, and are aimed at graduates who already possess a strong academic background and a clear interest in international affairs.
Available Traineeship Sections
1. Health Section
Trainees in the Health Section will be actively involved in the EU’s engagement with global health institutions and initiatives. This section focuses on cooperation with organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Fund, and GAVI.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting colleagues in monitoring and covering EU activities within major global health institutions
- Attending meetings and events organised by the UN, EU Delegation, Member States, NGOs, academia, and think tanks
- Supporting the preparation of meetings through research and drafting of statements
- Preparing background notes, analytical reports, and summaries of key meetings and policy documents
- Assisting in high-level and regular WHO meetings and maintaining communication with EU Member States
- Supporting the organisation of meetings, events, and official missions from EU Headquarters to Geneva
This traineeship is ideal for candidates interested in global health diplomacy and international public health governance.
2. Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Section
The Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Section offers trainees a close look at EU engagement in global security and arms control discussions. Trainees are fully integrated into the section’s work related to UN and multilateral disarmament forums.
Main tasks include:
- Assisting the Head of Section and colleagues in daily work related to disarmament and non-proliferation
- Supporting the preparation of multilateral meetings and conferences
- Drafting reports and summaries following meetings and negotiations
- Assisting in the organisation of official visits
- Providing general logistical and administrative support to the team
This section is particularly suitable for candidates with an academic background or interest in international security, arms control, and peace studies.
3. Economic Affairs, Development, Environment and Digital Section
Trainees in this section will engage with a wide range of UN agencies and international bodies dealing with economic policy, development, environment, and digital affairs. These include UNECE, ITU, UNCTAD, WIPO, UNEP, and WMO, among others.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting section colleagues in their work with UN agencies and related institutions
- Supporting meeting preparations through research and drafting of EU statements
- Drafting reports and summaries of meetings, conferences, and newly published international reports
- Assisting in the organisation of official visits
- Providing general logistical and coordination support
This traineeship offers broad exposure to global economic governance, sustainable development, environmental policy, and digital transformation.
Eligibility and Required Qualifications
Applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria. Only candidates who hold a master’s degree in a relevant field are eligible. Suitable disciplines include, but are not limited to:
- International Relations
- International Politics
- European Studies
- International Law
- International Economics
Candidates without a master’s degree will not be considered.
Additional requirements include:
- A solid understanding of the European Union and the United Nations system
- Excellent drafting and communication skills in English
- Knowledge of French is a strong advantage
- Previous internships or experience in the relevant policy area are considered an asset
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email to [email protected] and must include:
- A detailed Europass CV (applications in other formats will not be accepted)
- A cover letter explaining the motivation for applying
- A completed application form
The subject line of the email must read:
“Funded Traineeship – Name/Acronym of the Section”
Applicants may apply to only one section per delegation. However, based on the applicant’s profile, the delegation may propose placement in another section.
Important Terms and Conditions
Each selected trainee will receive a monthly grant to help cover living expenses in Geneva. However, all costs related to travel, visas, insurance, and accommodation must be covered by the trainee.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Only successful applicants will be offered a traineeship, and failure to present required documentation will result in rejection. Traineeships are subject to both local legislation and the legislation of the trainee’s country of origin.
EU citizens must also ensure adequate insurance coverage, including pandemic and repatriation risks, and hold the necessary visa or residence permit where applicable.
A Unique Opportunity for Aspiring Diplomats
These funded traineeships at the EU Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva represent a rare opportunity for young graduates to gain first-hand experience in international diplomacy. For those seeking to build a career in global governance, EU external action, or multilateral institutions, this programme offers invaluable professional exposure at the heart of international decision-making.
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