Traineeship Opportunities

The Council of Europe’s traineeship scheme consists of a three-month period: candidates can choose between: January to March, April to June and September to December. The Council of Europe does not organise any traineeships during the summer period. We would also like to specify that we do not offer traineeships in translation and interpretation.

Who can apply ?

- Nationals of one of the Council of Europe's member states. - Nationals of Belarus - Persons who have completed their higher education or have successfully completed at least three years of university study (six semesters), or - candidates from national administrations or private firms who wish to find out about, learn more about or specialise in a particular field of the Council of Europe's activities. They must have performed duties requiring knowledge of university level for at least two years. Trainees must have a very good knowledge of one of the Council of Europe's official languages (English and French). A good knowledge of the other is desirable. Good drafting ability required.

Selection

Trainees are selected by the Human Resources Department, in agreement with the departments to which they are assigned, following the principle of fair geographical distribution.

Duties

The duties to which trainees are assigned include research, the preparation of draft reports and studies for meetings of experts and the drafting of minutes. They may also be required to assist with current work. We would like to specify that we do not offer traineeships in translation and interpretation.

Programme

Trainees will be given an opportunity - especially through the induction course arranged for them - to find out about the Council's structures, activities and international co-operation procedures, including the implementation of the European Convention of Human Rights. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity of attending sittings of the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly and other meetings taking place during their stay in Strasbourg.

Conditions

Trainees are not paid. Costs of travel and accommodation, as well as living expenses, are the responsibility of trainees or their sponsoring institutions.

How to apply?
The application procedure for traineeships in 2010 is now closed and no further applications can be accepted.

If you are interested in applying for a traineeship in 2011, please visit our website from April 2010 onwards when the process re-opens and when application forms and dates of 2011 sessions wil be available.

Application deadline

Once the procedure re-opens in April 2010, application forms for 2011 should be completed and arrive at the Council of Europe headquarters no later than 15 September 2010.

Frequently Asked Questions

Link to list of departments to choose from