The World Trade Organization (WTO) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, offering post-graduate students from WTO member and observer countries the opportunity to gain professional experience at the WTO Secretariat in Geneva.
The programme provides exposure to global trade governance, international policy development, and the technical operations of the world’s leading trade institution.
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The internship has three tracks: the standard WTO Internship Programme for post-graduates from WTO members and accession countries; the China LDC and Accessions Programme for applicants from least-developed countries and those undergoing WTO accession; and the WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies for PhD candidates conducting trade-related research.
Interns are assigned to various WTO divisions, where they work on trade law, economics, statistics, trade policy, communications, administration, languages or information management.
This internship offers a structured environment where young professionals learn how global trade rules are negotiated and implemented.
Participants work alongside WTO experts, engage in research and policy tasks, and contribute to analytical projects.
The programme strengthens academic knowledge, builds practical policy skills, and exposes interns to international diplomacy, helping them transition into careers in global organizations, government ministries, research institutes and trade-focused institutions.
The programme is especially valuable because it places participants at the centre of global trade governance at a time when supply chains, regional agreements, tariffs and digital trade are reshaping economies. It offers access to technical expertise, international networks and policy-making environments that few institutions can provide. Candidates from developing countries also gain exposure that can support national development and enhance their professional credibility.
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World Trade Organization Internship 2026 Areas of Work
Trade law, economics, statistics, trade policy, languages, administration (procurement, finance, HR), information management, communication and external relations.
Eligibility of World Trade Organization Internship
- Applicants must be nationals of WTO member or accession countries
- Have completed undergraduate studies and at least one year of postgraduate study,
- Be between 21 and 30 years old during the internship.
Duration & Benefits
- Internships run for up to six months
- Daily allowance of CHF 60 (including weekends and holidays) and
- Free medical insurance.
Required Documents for Successful Application
- Online application form
- Statement of purpose
- CV or résumé
- Letter of recommendation
- Recent passport
- Academic transcript.
Application Deadline
December 31, 2025
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How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the WTO external jobs platform.
Applicants should complete the online form and upload all required documents. Only shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews.
Qualified applicants remain on a roster for one year, with intake occurring throughout the year.
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