Applications are now open for the Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026-2027 for eligible candidates seeking professional experience in a leading international organization.
The Council of Europe Traineeship Program offers participants the opportunity to work in a dynamic multicultural environment while contributing to projects related to human rights, legal affairs, public policy, international cooperation, public health, communications, information technology, and other support services. Selected trainees will receive a monthly stipend and gain valuable international work experience under the supervision of experts from across Europe.
Program Summary
- Host: Council of Europe
- Category: Internships | Training
- Eligible Countries: Council of Europe Member States
- Program Locations: France | Belgium | Switzerland
- Reward: Monthly Stipend | Professional Training | International Work Experience
- Deadline: June 17, 2026
Program Details
The Council of Europe Traineeship Program provides an exceptional opportunity for young professionals and recent graduates to gain practical experience within one of Europe’s most respected international institutions. Approximately 80 traineeship positions are available for the 2026-2027 cycle across various departments and professional fields.
Participants will work on meaningful projects under the guidance of experienced professionals while developing technical knowledge, teamwork abilities, and international networking opportunities. The program is designed to help trainees strengthen their professional skills and gain first-hand experience in international governance and cooperation.
Trainees may be assigned to areas such as legal affairs, human rights, public health, international cooperation, policy development, human resources, communication, information technology, political affairs, catering services, and other administrative functions depending on their qualifications and interests.
Most traineeships will take place in Strasbourg, France, while selected opportunities are also available in Brussels, Belgium, and Geneva, Switzerland.
Program Duration
- General Traineeships: October 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027
- Parliamentary Assembly Traineeships: September 1, 2026 – February 28, 2027
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026-2027, applicants must:
- Have completed at least three years of university education
- Hold a degree corresponding to the first cycle of the Bologna Process framework for higher education qualifications
- Have completed at least the first year of a Master’s degree for traineeships at the European Court of Human Rights
- Possess a good command of:
- English, or
- French
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen of a member state of the Council of Europe
- Not be a parent, child, stepchild, or grandchild of a current Council of Europe staff member
- Not have previously:
- Participated in a Council of Europe traineeship
- Undertaken a study visit with the Council of Europe
- Worked for the organization in any capacity
Program Benefits
Successful applicants of the Council of Europe Traineeship Program will receive:
- Monthly compensation of approximately €1,320 for trainees based in Strasbourg
- Opportunity to work within a prestigious international organization
- Hands-on experience in a professional multicultural environment
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced experts
- Professional networking opportunities across Europe
- Exposure to international policy and governance processes
- Development of teamwork, communication, and leadership skills
Required Documents
To apply for this program, applicants should prepare:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Experience certificates (if applicable)
- Any additional supporting documents relevant to the application
How to Apply
To apply for the Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026-2027:
- Create a new account on the application portal
- Log in using your account details
- Complete the online application form
- Provide your personal information
- Enter your educational background
- Provide details of your work experience
- List your skills and language proficiency levels
- Include details of any publications where applicable
- Upload all required documents
- Select two preferred teams as your first and second choices
- Carefully review your application
- Submit before the deadline
Applications must be submitted on or before June 17, 2026.
To begin the application process, click HERE
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