Apply for the UNITAR Multilateral Diplomacy Traineeship 2026 in Geneva. Open to students and recent graduates in international relations and related fields. Four–six-month placement with a 900 CHF monthly stipend. Deadline: 30 November 2025.
Overview: UNITAR Multilateral Diplomacy Traineeship 2026
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is inviting applications for its Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit (MDPU) traineeship, linked to the Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy. This full-time, in-person traineeship offers students and recent graduates a rare opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international affairs, training development, and multilateral diplomacy.
The traineeship will take place at UNITAR Headquarters in Geneva for a period of four to six months, starting December 2025 or January 2026. Trainees receive a monthly lump-sum allowance of 900 CHF.
Applications close 30 November 2025.
About the Traineeship
The MDPU designs and delivers UNITAR’s core diplomacy training, benefitting thousands of diplomats annually across UN Headquarters and global venues. It also delivers e-learning courses, academic partnerships, advisory services, and curriculum design for diplomatic academies.
This traineeship supports UNITAR’s Online Master in International Affairs and Diplomacy, allowing trainees to work directly on programme implementation, academic coordination, content development, research and outreach.
Key Responsibilities
Selected trainees will support the Programme Officer in the following areas:
- Designing, preparing and implementing Master’s-level training activities
- Adapting online learning content to academic and quality standards
- Assisting in programme admissions and student communications
- Liaising with partner universities and beneficiaries
- Conducting research for new programmes and academic partnerships
- Supporting outreach, communications, and community engagement mechanisms
Tasks may be adjusted throughout the traineeship based on UNITAR’s programme needs.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the traineeship, participants will be able to:
- Translate institutional strategy into actionable academic objectives
- Work independently with initiative and professional responsibility
- Build strong professional relationships within UNITAR and the UN
- Propose improvements to UNITAR’s training programmes
- Operate effectively in a multicultural, international environment
Eligibility
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in or recently graduated (within two years) from a degree in:
- International relations
- Political science
- Education
- History
- Law
- Languages
- Or a related field
- Demonstrate strong English writing and communication skills
- Possess analytical, research, organizational and administrative skills
- Have experience or interest in e-learning, instructional design or training methodologies
- Be proficient with digital tools (e-learning platforms, MS Office, internet research)
Languages:
- Excellent written and spoken English required
- Knowledge of French or Spanish is an advantage
- Native English speakers are preferred, but not required
Benefits
While the traineeship is unpaid, UNITAR provides:
- 900 CHF monthly allowance for transportation and miscellaneous expenses
- Full involvement in UN-level training, curriculum development and diplomacy work
- Networking opportunities with UN staff, diplomats and academic partners
- Hands-on experience relevant to global governance, diplomacy and education technology
How to Apply
- Prepare your application package, including:
- Updated CV
- Motivation letter tailored to UNITAR and the traineeship
- Submit your application as early as possible and before the deadline.
- Applications must be submitted through UNITAR’s official vacancy portal.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to high application volumes.
Deadline: 30 November 2025
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | UNITAR Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit Traineeship |
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland (in-person) |
| Duration | 4–6 months |
| Start Date | December 2025 / January 2026 |
| Allowance | 900 CHF per month |
| Eligibility | Students or recent graduates (IR, law, history, political science, education, etc.) |
| Language Requirements | Excellent English; French/Spanish an advantage |
| Deadline | 30 November 2025 |
| Responsibilities | Course design, admissions, research, communications, outreach |
| Organizational Unit | Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit (MDPU), UNITAR |
Conclusion
The UNITAR MDPU Traineeship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for emerging professionals seeking international experience in diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, academic programme management and UN training. With its Geneva-based, full-time structure and exposure to high-level diplomatic training, this programme is ideal for students and early-career professionals aiming to enter international organizations.
