The World Trade Organization (WTO) is accepting applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, an opportunity that allows post-graduate students from WTO member states and observer countries to gain hands-on experience at the WTO Secretariat in Geneva. The programme exposes young professionals to the global trading system, international policy development, and the technical workings of the world’s leading trade institution.
There are three internship tracks. The WTO Internship Programme is open to post-graduate students from all WTO members and countries undergoing accession. The China LDC and Accessions Programme supports candidates from least-developed countries and those engaged in WTO accession processes. The WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies caters to PhD candidates pursuing trade-related research. The specific tasks an intern undertakes depend on the division they are assigned to, covering areas such as trade law, economics, statistics, trade policy, languages, administration, communication, external relations, and information management.
About the WTO Internship Programme This internship provides a structured pathway for young scholars to understand how global trade rules are shaped, negotiated, and implemented. Interns work directly with WTO experts, participate in research and policy assignments, and contribute to ongoing analytical projects. The programme is designed to deepen academic knowledge, build practical policy experience, and expose interns to the dynamics of international diplomacy. It helps young professionals transition into careers within international organizations, government ministries, research institutions, trade-related NGOs, and global policy centres.
Why This Opportunity Matters The WTO Internship matters because it places young professionals at the heart of global trade governance at a time when issues such as tariffs, supply chains, regional agreements, and digital trade are transforming economies. It provides access to real-world policy environments, international networks, and technical expertise that are difficult to acquire elsewhere. For candidates from developing countries, it offers a rare chance to build global exposure, strengthen their academic or professional trajectory, and bring back insights that can support national trade development. The experience also carries significant credibility in international careers, opening doors to future opportunities in diplomacy, research, economics, and global public policy.
Areas of Work • Trade law • Economics • Statistics • Trade policy • Languages • Administration (procurement, finance, HR) • Information, communication & external relations • Information management
Eligibility Requirements • Must be a national of a WTO member country or one engaged in accession. • Must have completed undergraduate studies and at least one year of postgraduate study. • Must be between 21 and 30 years old during the internship.
Duration & Benefits • Up to 6 months. • Daily allowance of CHF 60 (including weekends & holidays). • Medical health insurance.
Required Documents • Online application form. • Statement of purpose. • CV/resume. • Letter of recommendation. • Passport. • Academic transcript.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step) • Apply via the WTO external jobs platform. • Complete the online form and upload all required documents. • Only shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews. • Suitable applicants are placed in a roster for one year. • Intake happens throughout the year; no fixed recruitment window.
