WTO Internship Opportunities for Postgraduates and Ph.D. Candidates: Apply by December 31 2025
WTO Internship Opportunities for Postgraduates and Ph.D. Candidates: Apply by December 31 2025
WTO Internship Opportunities for Postgraduates and Ph.D. Candidates: Apply by December 31 2025. The WTO Internship Programme 2025–2026 is now accepting applications from postgraduate students and recent graduates. This competitive, merit-based opportunity is ideal for those looking to gain practical experience in the multilateral trading system while working at the heart of global trade policy in Geneva, Switzerland. Interns receive a daily stipend of CHF 60 to CHF 90 and can apply until 31 December 2025.
Table of Contents
Background & Job Description
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is the global body governing international trade rules between nations. To support knowledge transfer and build future expertise, the WTO offers three structured internship programmes for talented postgraduate students and recent graduates. These internships aim to deepen participants’ understanding of trade governance and foster diverse, inclusive participation in global economic decision-making.
The WTO internships are not employment contracts but serve as hands-on educational experiences. Interns assist WTO staff on various projects and contribute to divisional work related to economics, law, international relations, and trade policy.
All internships take place at the WTO Secretariat in Geneva, and are designed for a minimum of three months up to a maximum of six months, depending on division needs.
The three WTO internship programmes include:
1. WTO Internship Programme
- Open to applicants from WTO member countries and countries engaged in accession negotiations.
- For postgraduate students or recent graduates with an advanced degree (Master’s or higher).
- Offers a daily allowance of CHF 60.
2. China’s LDCs, Accessions and General Internship Programme
- Reserved for candidates from developing and least-developed countries.
- Up to 10 interns are selected annually.
- Offers a higher daily allowance of CHF 90.
- Travel costs are covered for selected participants.
3. WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies
- Open to PhD students from developing or least-developed countries.
- Tailored to those conducting thesis work relevant to the WTO’s mission.
Tasks
Interns at the WTO support departments across a wide range of work. Specific duties depend on the division but may include:
- Assisting with economic research, trade analysis, and legal briefings.
- Contributing to reports, briefings, and member state communications.
- Supporting preparations for negotiations, meetings, or dispute settlements.
- Analyzing data and contributing to policy formulation.
- Participating in divisional workshops, seminars, and training sessions.
Each intern is assigned a supervisor and evaluated at the end of the internship. Interns are expected to work full-time and adhere to all WTO confidentiality, ethics, and conduct standards.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
To qualify, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be a national of a WTO Member state or Observer government.
- Have completed at least one year of postgraduate studies (e.g., Master’s).
- Hold or be pursuing an advanced degree in one of the following:
- Economics
- International Law
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Trade or Public Policy
Experience
While prior experience is not required, competitive candidates typically demonstrate:
- Strong academic standing and relevant research experience.
- Knowledge of international economic systems and institutions.
- Interest in trade negotiations, law, or policy analysis.
- Analytical, writing, and presentation skills.
Age Requirements
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Maximum age: 30 years
Additional Information
Remuneration and Living Costs
- WTO Internship Programme: CHF 60 daily allowance.
- China’s LDCs/Accessions Programme: CHF 90 daily allowance.
- Interns must cover their own living costs and insurance, except for those selected under the China programme or doctoral support scheme.
Note: Geneva has a high cost of living. Candidates should have additional funding sources to supplement their allowance.
Travel and Visa
- Travel expenses are not covered, except for specific programmes (China’s LDCs, Doctoral Support).
- Selected interns may be issued a Swiss legitimation card for residency and work.
Duration & Start Date
- Internships are offered year-round.
- Duration: Minimum 3 months, up to 6 months (non-extendable).
- Interns may split time between two divisions (at least 3 months per division).
Terms & Conditions
- Interns are not WTO employees.
- Interns cannot reapply after completing the 6-month maximum.
- There is no entitlement to future employment at the WTO.
- Interns may apply for external vacancies during or after their internship.
How to Apply
Applications are open on a rolling basis until 31 December 2025.
To apply:
- Visit the WTO Careers Portal.
- Search for internship opportunities (e.g., JR103492).
- Submit your CV, cover letter, and proof of eligibility.
Early applications are strongly encouraged as selection is highly competitive and slots are limited.
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Disclaimer
This article is a third-party summary and is not affiliated with the WTO. All application details must be confirmed on the official WTO website before applying.
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