Are you a passionate young professional with dreams of working in international trade? The World Trade Organization (WTO) Young Professional Program 2026 offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work in Geneva, Switzerland, and gain practical experience in global trade systems. This fully funded, one-year fellowship is ideal for early-career individuals from underrepresented WTO member countries.
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WTO Young Professional Program Overview
The WTO Young Professional Program (YPP) was launched to enhance diversity and inclusion within the WTO Secretariat. It targets highly qualified candidates under the age of 32 from WTO member countries that are currently underrepresented. The program offers a one-year full-time paid position with no extension.
Key Details:
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Host Organization: World Trade Organization (WTO)
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Location: Geneva, Switzerland
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Program Duration: 1 year
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Funding: Fully funded
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Monthly Salary: CHF 4,000
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Deadline to Apply: April 21, 2025
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Fellowship Benefits
Selected participants receive a comprehensive package that covers:
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Monthly stipend of CHF 4,000
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Full medical insurance
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Travel expenses covered (round-trip air ticket)
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Real-time involvement in WTO projects
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Mentorship and professional training
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Eligibility Criteria For WTO Young Professional Program
To qualify, applicants must:
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Be a national of a WTO member country (see priority list below)
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Hold an advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in fields such as law, economics, or other trade-related disciplines
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Be 32 years old or younger when the program begins
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Have at least two years of professional experience in international trade or WTO-related work
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Demonstrate proficiency in English (French or Spanish is a plus)
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Have not previously worked for the WTO
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Priority Countries
The WTO prioritises applicants from countries with low or no representation at the Secretariat. These include:
Africa
Namibia, Liberia, Malawi, Zambia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Angola, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, Eswatini, and others
Asia & Middle East
Bangladesh, Myanmar, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Vietnam, Armenia, Cambodia, Indonesia
Caribbean & Central America
Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Panama, Dominican Republic, Suriname, Saint Lucia
Europe
Moldova, Georgia, Albania, Montenegro, Latvia
Pacific
Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands
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Areas of Work
Candidates can rank up to three preferred divisions. Possible work areas include:
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Trade policy analysis
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Market access
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Dispute settlement
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Intellectual property rights (IPR)
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Trade in services and investment
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Technical assistance and capacity building
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Environment and trade
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Government procurement
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Agriculture and food security
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How to Apply For WTO Young Professional Program?
The application process is simple:
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Prepare your documents, including:
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A professional CV
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A cover letter specifying your top three preferred work areas
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Submit your application in English via the WTO official recruitment portal
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Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early!
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Final Thoughts
The WTO Young Professional Program 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for young talents to shine on the global stage. Don’t pass up this opportunity to collaborate with professionals in Switzerland and launch your career in international commerce if you fit the requirements.