WTO Young Professionals Program 2026 in Switzerland | Fully Funded

WTO Young Professionals Program 2026 is now accepting applications for its prestigious one-year fully funded training opportunity in Geneva, Switzerland. This competitive program is designed for talented individuals from WTO member countries who are passionate about international trade, global policy, and economic development. Selected participants will gain invaluable hands-on experience working at the WTO Secretariat, engaging directly with trade-related issues, negotiations, and policy-making processes. The program is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and offers a generous monthly salary of CHF 4,000, along with medical coverage and travel expenses—making it a truly all-inclusive professional opportunity. Check also: Global Peace Forum 2025 in Canada | Fully Funded
The WTO YPP 2026 aims to empower young professionals with deep knowledge of WTO functions, legal frameworks, trade rules, development issues, and technical assistance. There is no application fee, and the program actively encourages applicants from underrepresented regions and developing countries. This initiative not only builds expertise but also strengthens future leadership in international trade. If you’re looking to launch a global career in trade and diplomacy, the WTO Young Professionals Program is your gateway to meaningful impact and professional growth on the world stage. Check also: Global Leadership Certification 2025 at Cambridge in UK
Table of Contents
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Location: WTO Office, Geneva
- Duration: One year
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 21 April 2025
Financial Benefits
The Program Covers:
- Monthly Salary of CHF 4000
- Medical Coverage
- Travel Cost
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Eligibility Criteria for WTO Young Professionals Program 2026
- Be a national of a WTO member state. The list of members is available here.
- Education: Possess an advanced university degree in:
- Law
- Economics
- Other international trade-related subjects relevant to WTO work
- Experience: Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience.
- Language: Fluent in English.
- Age: Must not exceed 32 years.
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Areas of Work for WTO Young Professionals Program 2026
The program provides a one-year, non-extendable opportunity to gain practical experience at the WTO. Applicants can indicate up to three preferred areas of WTO work, ranked in order of preference. The areas of work may include:
- Accessions
- Agriculture
- Dispute settlement
- Intellectual property rights
- Government procurement (GPA)
- Competition policy
- Market access
- Rules, Trade, and Development
- Trade and environment
- Trade in services and investment, Trade facilitation, Trade policy analysis, and trade-related technical assistance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The WTO Young Professionals Programme offers young professionals from developing and least-developed countries a fully funded, one-year opportunity in Geneva to gain experience in international trade. Benefits include a CHF 4,000 monthly salary, medical coverage, and travel expenses. Applicants must be 32 or younger, hold an advanced degree, and apply via the WTO’s e-recruitment portal.
What is the WTO Young Professionals Programme (YPP)?
The WTO Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a one-year initiative aimed at providing young professionals from developing and least-developed WTO member countries with hands-on experience in international trade and the functions of the WTO Secretariat.
Who is eligible to apply for the WTO YPP 2026?
Applicants must be nationals of a WTO member country, aged 32 or younger as of January 1, 2026, and possess an advanced university degree in fields such as law, economics, or international relations.
What are the benefits of participating in the WTO YPP?
Participants receive a monthly salary of CHF 4,000, medical coverage, and travel expenses to and from Geneva, Switzerland.
What is the duration of the WTO YPP?
The programme lasts for one year, providing participants with comprehensive exposure to the workings of the WTO.
How can I apply for the WTO YPP 2026?
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the WTO’s e-recruitment website. Detailed instructions are available on the official WTO website.
What is the application deadline for the WTO YPP 2026?
The application deadline is typically on 21 April of the preceding year. For the 2026 programme, the exact deadline will be specified on the WTO’s official announcement page.
What areas of work does the WTO YPP cover?
Participants may be assigned to various divisions, including agriculture, dispute settlement, intellectual property rights, trade and environment, and trade facilitation, among others.
Is there a possibility of employment with the WTO after completing the YPP?
While the YPP provides valuable experience, it does not guarantee subsequent employment with the WTO. However, alumni have pursued careers in international organizations, national governments, and the private sector.
Are there language requirements for the WTO YPP?
Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in one of the WTO’s other official languages, French or Spanish, is considered an advantage.
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