Applications are now open for the Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026–2027, a prestigious paid international internship opportunity for students and graduates who wish to gain professional experience in one of Europe’s leading organizations dedicated to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The traineeships are available across various departments and institutions of the Council of Europe, with most positions based in Strasbourg, France, Geneva, and Brussels. There is no application fee and the duration of the traineeship is from 4 to 8 months. More details are below.
Program Overview
- Host Organization: Council of Europe
- Program Type: Paid Traineeship / Internship
- Locations: Strasbourg, France, Brussels, Belgium, and Geneva, Switzerland.
- Duration: Approximately 6 Months
- Traineeship Session: October 2026 – March 2027
- Number of Positions: Around 80 Traineeships
- Deadline: 17 June 2026
Financial Benefits
Selected trainees receive:
- Monthly traineeship allowance (1,320.00 EUR gross per month)
- Health insurance coverage
- 2.5 days of leave per month worked (can be taken in accumulation)
- Professional mentoring and supervision
- International work experience
Areas of Traineeship
Opportunities are available across a wide range of departments, including:
- Human Rights
- Democracy and Governance
- International Relations
- Legal Affairs
- Public Policy
- Communications and Media
- Research and Analysis
- Information Technology
- Human Resources
- Finance and Administration
- Education and Youth
- Social Affairs and Inclusion
What Will Trainees Do?
Depending on the department, trainees may:
- Conduct research and policy analysis
- Draft reports, studies, and official documents
- Assist in organizing meetings and events
- Support communication and outreach activities
- Attend conferences and committee meetings
- Prepare summaries and briefing notes
- Contribute to projects promoting human rights and democracy
- Collaborate with international teams and experts
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have completed a minimum of three years of university studies
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent first-cycle university degree
- Have a very good knowledge of either English or French
- Be a citizen of a Council of Europe member state
- Not have previously completed a Council of Europe traineeship or study visit program.
Why Apply?
The Council of Europe Traineeship Program offers participants the opportunity to:
- Gain professional experience in an international organization
- Work on issues related to human rights, democracy, and governance
- Develop research, communication, and policy skills
- Build a strong international professional network
- Learn from experienced European policymakers and experts
- Enhance future career opportunities in international organizations, government institutions, NGOs, and academia.
How to Apply for the Council of Europe Traineeship 2026/27?
Interested applicants should:
- Visit the Council of Europe Careers Portal.
- Review the available traineeship departments.
- Select up to two preferred teams.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Read FAQs.
APPLY NOW FOR THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE TRAINEESHIP
