WTO Internship Programme Paid Opportunity at the World Trade Organization

Overview

The WTO Internship Programme 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students and young professionals who are interested in international trade, economics, law, and global policy-making. Offered by the World Trade Organization (WTO), this internship allows selected candidates to gain practical experience at one of the world’s most influential international institutions. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the program provides interns with direct exposure to the daily work of WTO divisions and global trade negotiations.

Designed for postgraduate students and recent graduates, the WTO Internship Programme helps participants develop professional skills, deepen their understanding of multilateral trade systems, and build strong international networks. Interns work closely with experienced professionals and contribute to research, analysis, and administrative tasks that support the WTO’s mission.

WTO Internship Programme

The WTO Internship Programme aims to introduce talented individuals to the work of the World Trade Organization while enhancing diversity and inclusion within the institution. Interns are assigned to various WTO divisions depending on their academic background and the organization’s needs.

Areas of work may include:

• International trade policy and negotiations
• Trade law and dispute settlement
• Economics, statistics, and data analysis
• Development and trade facilitation
• Communications, external relations, and administration

This hands-on exposure enables interns to understand how global trade rules are developed and implemented in a real-world setting.

The WTO Internship Programme is a paid internship. Selected interns receive a daily allowance of CHF 60, which is intended to help cover living expenses during the internship period. The allowance is paid for weekdays, weekends, and official holidays during the internship.

While travel and accommodation costs are not covered under the standard program, certain special WTO internship initiatives may offer additional financial support for candidates from developing or least-developed countries.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the WTO Internship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a national of a WTO member country or a country in the process of WTO accession
• Be at least 21 years old at the time of application
• Have completed an undergraduate degree
• Have completed at least one year of postgraduate studies or have recently graduated from a postgraduate program
• Possess strong academic performance and a clear interest in international trade or related fields

The program welcomes applicants from diverse academic disciplines, provided their background aligns with the WTO’s work.

Required Documents

Applicants are typically required to submit the following documents through the WTO online recruitment system:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation or cover letter
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of nationality
• Additional supporting documents, if requested

All applications must be submitted online through the WTO External Jobs Portal.

How to Apply for the WTO Internship Programme 2026

The application process is entirely online and follows these steps:

• Visit the WTO External Careers Portal
• Create an applicant profile
• Search for the WTO Internship Programme
• Complete the online application form
• Upload all required documents
• Submit the application before the deadline

Application Deadlines:
Some WTO internship positions are advertised with fixed deadlines, while others remain open throughout the year and are filled from a candidate roster.

WTO Internship

The WTO Internship Programme offers exceptional professional and academic value. As an intern, you will:

• Gain real-world experience in global trade policy
• Work in a multicultural and international environment
• Develop research, analytical, and communication skills
• Strengthen your CV with experience at a top international organization
• Build professional networks that support future careers in international organizations, government, or academia

Final Thoughts

The WTO Internship Programme 2026 is a highly competitive yet rewarding opportunity for individuals seeking exposure to international trade and global governance. With a paid stipend, meaningful work assignments, and access to an international professional environment, this program serves as a strong foundation for a future career in international affairs.
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