Funded EU Traineeships in Paris 2026: EEAS Opportunities at the OECD and UNESCO for Young Graduates

The European External Action Service (EEAS) is offering funded 5-month traineeships in Paris for young graduates at the EU Delegation to the OECD and UNESCO. Apply by 14 January 2026 to gain hands-on experience in international relations, diplomacy, and global policy.

The European External Action Service (EEAS) has opened applications for funded traineeships for young graduates at the EU Delegation to the OECD and UNESCO in Paris, with placements starting in March 2026. These highly competitive opportunities offer aspiring international professionals a unique entry point into the world of diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, and global policy-making.

With the application deadline set for 14 January 2026, interested candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as places are limited and the programme is expiring soon.

A Gateway into EU Diplomacy and Multilateral Affairs

The EU Delegation to the OECD and UNESCO represents the European Union and its 27 Member States at three major international organisations based in Paris:

the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD),
the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and
the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Together, these institutions shape global agendas on economic development, education, culture, science, digital transformation, climate action, and energy policy—areas that are central to the EU’s strategic interests and values.

Through this traineeship programme, the EEAS aims to equip young graduates with first-hand exposure to the daily operations of an EU diplomatic mission and the complex dynamics of international organisations.

Traineeship Structure and Available Sections

The programme offers 5-month funded traineeships, beginning between 1 and 15 March 2026, across multiple sections of the EU Delegation in Paris. Applicants may apply for one section only, choosing from the following:

OECD Political Team
OECD Economic and Trade Team
OECD External Affairs and Development Team
UNESCO Section

While candidates may indicate a preferred section or specific interest in OECD, UNESCO, or IEA-related work, final placement decisions are made by the Delegation based on overall suitability and organisational needs.

Key Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities

Selected trainees will be fully integrated into their respective teams and contribute to substantive policy and coordination work. Typical responsibilities include:

Preparing EU lines-to-take for OECD, UNESCO, or IEA meetings
Participating in and drafting reports from EU coordination meetings
Attending international meetings and producing analytical summaries and notes
Supporting the organisation of events hosted by the EU Delegation
Conducting research and drafting policy briefs and background papers on EU, OECD, UNESCO, or IEA-related topics

These tasks provide trainees with valuable analytical, drafting, and diplomatic skills that are essential for careers in international relations, public policy, and global governance.

Who Should Apply?

The EEAS is seeking highly motivated, proactive young graduates with a strong interest in international affairs. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Hold a university degree in a relevant field such as law, economics, international relations, political science, or related disciplines
A master’s degree is considered an advantage
Demonstrate excellent command of English, particularly strong writing and drafting skills (a written test will be required)
Have basic knowledge of French, which is beneficial given the Paris-based working environment
Be available to start the traineeship no later than 15 March 2026

Applicants who do not meet all eligibility and availability requirements will not be considered.

Funding and Practical Considerations

The traineeships are funded, with selected candidates receiving a monthly grant to help cover living expenses in Paris. However, trainees are responsible for:

Travel costs
Visa and residence permits
Insurance
Accommodation

The traineeship is offered in compliance with local French legislation as well as the laws of the trainee’s country of origin.

EU citizens must also provide proof of insurance coverage, including protection against pandemic-related risks and repatriation costs, and ensure they hold the appropriate visa or residence permit where required.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted by email to:
[email protected]

Each application must include:

A standard Europass CV (mandatory format)
A cover letter explaining motivation for applying to the EU traineeship
A completed application form

The email subject line must clearly state:
“Funded Traineeship – OECD Political / OECD Economic & Trade / OECD External Affairs & Development / UNESCO Section”

Applicants may apply to only one traineeship option within this Delegation.

Before applying, candidates are strongly advised to review the official EEAS eligibility rules for paid traineeships, as applications from non-eligible candidates will be automatically rejected.

Selection Process

Due to the high volume of applications and limited number of positions, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Successful applicants must be able to provide all required documentation; failure to do so will result in disqualification.

A Career-Defining Opportunity

The EEAS funded traineeships at the EU Delegation to the OECD and UNESCO offer an exceptional opportunity for young graduates to gain practical experience at the heart of international cooperation. Participants leave the programme with enhanced professional networks, in-depth policy knowledge, and a strong foundation for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, public policy, or global development.

Graduates with a passion for international affairs are encouraged to apply before 14 January 2026 and take a decisive step toward a future in global governance.