Apply Now: ICRC Traineeship Program 2026 in Switzerland | Earn €4200 Monthly
Applications are now being accepted for the ICRC Traineeship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. This paid opportunity is open to Swiss nationals as well as international applicants from both EU and non-EU countries. Participants will work as full-time trainees at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Headquarters for 12 months, beginning in February 2026.
Trainees will receive a monthly salary of €4200, which is designed to comfortably cover living costs in Geneva, including rent, food, and daily expenses. Additionally, participants will be supported with the process of obtaining a Swiss work visa and residence permit.
This traineeship primarily focuses on assisting the Legal Division of the ICRC, especially in the area of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Key details of the program, including eligibility criteria, responsibilities, benefits, and how to apply, are outlined below.
ICRC Traineeship 2026 Overview
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Organization: International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
- Position Type: Traineeship
- Monthly Stipend: CHF 3917 (Approx. €4200)
- Program Duration: 12 Months
- Start Date: February 2026
- Deadline to Apply: June 1, 2025
About the Role
This traineeship offers a chance to work within the ICRC’s Legal Division, providing meaningful support in the field of international law and humanitarian policy.
Responsibilities include:
- Conducting in-depth legal research
- Reviewing legal texts and documents
- Supporting the organization of meetings, briefings, and events
- Drafting legal reports and memos
- Staying updated on current legal developments in IHL
Trainees play a valuable role in helping legal teams fulfill their mandates effectively.
Financial Support & Visa Facilitation
- Monthly Compensation: €4200
- Living Costs: This stipend is sufficient to manage accommodation, meals, transportation, and personal expenses in Geneva
- Visa Assistance: International applicants will be guided through the process to obtain a Swiss work visa and residence permit
Who Can Apply?
This program is designed for talented young professionals with a background in law and a strong interest in humanitarian work.
Minimum Requirements:
- Open to applicants from all nationalities
- Bachelor’s degree in Law or International Relations
- Master’s degree in Public International Law (or equivalent of 5+ years in legal studies)
- Proven academic exposure to International Humanitarian Law (minimum 20 hours coursework or moot court experience)
- Additional knowledge in at least one of the following fields:
- Human Rights Law
- Refugee Law
- Criminal Law
- Disarmament or Treaty Law
- Arbitration or International Agreements
- No more than 1 year of professional experience in international law post-graduation (or up to 2 years including unpaid internships)
- Fluent English is mandatory; additional proficiency in French, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, or Russian is a strong asset
Desired Skills
- Passion for humanitarian missions and the ICRC’s values
- Excellent ability to conduct legal research and draft legal texts
- Strong analytical thinking and clear writing skills
- Adaptability and organizational skills to manage multiple responsibilities
Documents Required
To complete your application, you must submit:
- Responses to pre-screening questions
- Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications
- Updated CV
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Copy of passport and driver’s license
How to Apply?
Interested individuals should prepare all necessary documents and submit their application via the official ICRC application portal. The organization encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.