The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Traineeship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for recent graduates and young professionals to gain hands-on experience in humanitarian work at the ICRC headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. This 12-month paid traineeship is designed to develop the skills and competencies of individuals committed to humanitarian principles and international law.
Scholarship Summary
- Scholarship: ICRC Traineeship 2026
- Organization: International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
- Country: Switzerland
- Degree Level: Recent graduates and young professionals
- Deadline: Varies by position; typically between May and June 2025
About the Traineeship
The ICRC offers a range of traineeship positions across various departments, including Legal, Communications, Policy and Diplomacy, Learning and Development, and more. These positions are primarily based at the ICRC headquarters in Geneva and are designed to provide practical experience in the organization’s humanitarian operations.
Each traineeship is a full-time commitment, lasting 12 months, and provides exposure to the ICRC’s work in protecting and assisting victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. Trainees will work under the supervision of experienced professionals and contribute to the organization’s mission while developing their own professional skills.
Financial Coverage
Trainees receive a gross monthly salary of 3,840 CHF, paid in 13 installments per year. This compensation is designed to cover living expenses in Geneva during the traineeship period. Please note that relocation support is not provided for traineeships, but the ICRC facilitates the necessary visa and work permits for successful candidates.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the ICRC Traineeship 2026, applicants must:
- Educational Background: Hold a university degree relevant to the position applied for (e.g., law, international relations, communications).
- Experience: Have up to one year of relevant professional experience (paid), or up to two years including internships or traineeships.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English; knowledge of French and/or other languages is an asset.
- Interest in Humanitarian Work: Show a strong interest in humanitarian issues and the ICRC’s mission.
- Adaptability: Be able to work effectively in a multicultural and international environment.
Required Documents
Applicants are typically required to submit:
- A curriculum vitae (CV) detailing educational background and work experience.
- A cover letter expressing interest in the traineeship and alignment with the ICRC’s mission.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Proof of language proficiency, if applicable.
- References or recommendation letters, if requested.
Specific requirements may vary depending on the traineeship position; applicants should refer to the individual job postings for detailed information.
Deadline
Application deadlines for the ICRC Traineeship 2026 vary by position. For example, the application deadline for the Associate position in the Legal Division is 1st June 2025, with a start date in February 2026. Applicants are encouraged to check the ICRC careers website regularly for updated postings and specific deadlines for each traineeship opportunity.
How to Apply
- Explore Open Positions: Visit the ICRC Careers Portal to view current traineeship openings.
- Select a Traineeship: Choose a position that aligns with your academic background and career interests.
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather all required documents, including your CV, cover letter, academic transcripts, and any additional materials specified in the job posting.
- Submit Application: Apply through the ICRC’s online application system before the specified deadline.
- Await Response: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments, which may include written tests and interviews.
Why Choose the ICRC Traineeship?
- Professional Development: Gain practical experience in a leading humanitarian organization.
- Networking Opportunities: Work alongside experienced professionals and expand your professional network.
- International Exposure: Engage in meaningful work within a multicultural and diverse environment.
- Contribution to Humanitarian Efforts: Play a role in the ICRC’s mission to protect and assist victims of armed conflict.
For more information and to apply, please visit the ICRC Careers Portal.
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