The World Trade Organization (WTO) is now accepting applications for its prestigious Young Professionals Programme (YPP) 2026. This one-year program offers young professionals from developing and least-developed WTO member countries a unique chance to work on global trade issues at the heart of international commerce — the WTO Secretariat in Geneva. The application deadline is 22 April 2025.
Launched in 2016, the YPP provides a platform for early-career professionals to gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in WTO-related work. The goal is to enhance the representation of underrepresented WTO members at the professional level. Participants will be placed in a specific division aligned with their academic background, interests, and the needs of the WTO. The program is supported by voluntary contributions to the WTO Global Trust Fund.
Each year, selected professionals engage with complex trade topics such as digital trade, agriculture, dispute settlement, and trade and environment. They work alongside leading experts and contribute to important WTO activities. This immersive experience equips them with the knowledge and skills to pursue impactful careers in international trade.
With a monthly stipend of CHF 4,000, the YPP covers all expenses related to your work and stay in Geneva. It also creates opportunities for long-term engagement with international organizations and fosters a global network of trade professionals.
Quick Overview of the WTO Young Professionals Programme 2026
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Organization: World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Program Duration: 1 year (2026)
- Application Deadline: 22 April 2025
- Monthly Salary: CHF 4,000
- Eligibility: Nationals of WTO member countries with low/no representation at WTO; Age 32 or younger by 1 January 2026; 2 years of relevant experience
- Education Requirement: Advanced university degree in trade-related fields
Perks of WTO Leadership Development Program
- Fully paid work placement at the WTO in Geneva
- Monthly salary of CHF 4,000
- Placement in a WTO division tailored to your interests
- One-year experience in global trade diplomacy
- Networking with international experts and policymakers
- Career growth and exposure to multilateral systems
Benefits of WTO YPP in Switzerland 2026
- Gain advanced practical knowledge on international trade and the multilateral system.
- Build credibility and experience for positions in global organizations and national governments.
- Improve analytical, communication, and policy skills in a dynamic multicultural environment.
Eligibility Criteria for the WTO Young Professionals Programme 2026
- Must be a national of a WTO Member country with no or low professional representation at the WTO Secretariat.
- Must be 32 years old or younger as of 1 January 2026.
- Hold an advanced university degree in economics, international relations, law, or related fields.
- Have at least 2 years of professional experience relevant to WTO work.
- Demonstrate strong interest and motivation for international trade.
- Fluent in English (knowledge of French or Spanish is a plus).
Important Dates of WTO YPP for International Students 2026
- Application Deadline: 22 April 2025
- Program Start: January 2026
- Program Duration: 12 months (no extension)
How to Apply to the WTO Young Professionals Programme 2026
- Visit the official job posting: WTO Application Portal
- Prepare your CV and Cover Letter (indicating up to 3 preferred WTO work areas).
- Submit your application in English before the deadline.
Required Documents for WTO YPP 2026
- Updated CV
- Cover letter of motivation (include your preferred WTO work areas)
- Advanced university degree (by the time of application)
For further inquiries, visit the official WTO website.
