Applications are closing soon for the Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026–27, an excellent opportunity for students and graduates seeking international work experience in Europe. The program offers around 80 paid traineeship positions across various departments, allowing participants to work alongside experts in a multicultural and professional environment.

Selected trainees will contribute to meaningful projects related to human rights, law, public policy, international cooperation, communications, IT, human resources, and many other fields. The traineeships are designed to help young professionals develop practical skills, gain valuable international exposure, and build strong professional networks within one of Europe’s most influential organizations.

Most placements are based in Strasbourg, France, while additional opportunities are available in Brussels, Belgium, and Geneva, Switzerland.

Program Overview

Host Organization: Council of Europe
Program Type: Paid Traineeship
Locations: France, Belgium & Switzerland
Duration: 6 Months
Session Dates:
– 1 October 2026 – 31 March 2027
– 1 September 2026 – 28 February 2027 (Parliamentary Assembly)
Number of Positions: Approximately 80
Application Deadline: 17 June 2026

About the Council of Europe Traineeship:

The Council of Europe Traineeship Program provides participants with the opportunity to work in a prestigious international organization dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across Europe.

Trainees will work under the supervision of experienced professionals while contributing to real projects and policy initiatives. The program is ideal for individuals interested in launching careers in international affairs, legal services, public policy, communications, governance, and related fields.

In addition to professional development, trainees will gain valuable experience in teamwork, intercultural collaboration, and international cooperation.

Selected trainees will receive:

• Monthly stipend of approximately €1,320
• Practical experience in an international organization
• Professional mentorship and supervision
• Networking opportunities with experts and professionals
• Exposure to international policy and governance work
• Career development and skill-building opportunities

Areas of Work

Participants may have the opportunity to work in:

Human Rights
Legal Affairs
International Cooperation
Public Policy
Political and Legal Advisory
Public Health
Communications and Media
Information Technology (IT)
Human Resources
Administration and Support Services
Catering and Operational Services

Eligibility Criteria:

Be at least 18 years old
Have completed a minimum of three years of university studies
Hold a degree corresponding to the first cycle of the Bologna Process framework
Possess a good command of English or French
Be a citizen of a Council of Europe member state
Meet any additional requirements specified by the selected traineeship team

Additional Requirements

• Applicants for traineeships at the European Court of Human Rights must have completed at least the first year of a Master’s degree.
• Candidates must not have previously participated in a Council of Europe traineeship, study visit, or employment assignment.
• Applicants must not be immediate family members of current Council of Europe staff members.

Required Documents:

Updated CV/Resume
Academic Transcripts
Experience Certificates (if applicable)
Supporting Documents relevant to the position

How to Apply:

1. Create an account on the official Council of Europe recruitment portal.
2. Log in using your account credentials.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Enter your personal, educational, and professional information.
5. Add language proficiency details and relevant skills.
6. Upload all required documents.
7. Select your first and second preferred traineeship teams.
8. Review your application carefully.
9. Submit your application before the deadline.

Application Deadline:

📅 17 June 2026

If you are looking to gain international work experience, develop professional skills, and contribute to meaningful projects within a leading European organization, the Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026–27 is an opportunity worth exploring.