About the opportunity
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) offers a one-year internship based at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. As the world organization of national parliaments, the IPU facilitates parliamentary diplomacy, promotes peace, democracy, and sustainable development, and supports 183 Member Parliaments. Interns work under the authority of their manager to support the administrative and substantive functioning of a specific service or division. Tasks include preparing meeting logistics, handling correspondence and workflows, maintaining spreadsheets and records, drafting concise meeting minutes, and carrying out programmatic research. Given the sensitive nature of the IPU’s work, interns must display discretion and respect confidentiality while communicating effectively in English and French.
Salary and benefits
- Monthly stipend of CHF 1,500 for a 100% contract (37.5-hour working week).
Who can apply?
- Commitment to IPU's principles and motivation to work in a multicultural team.
- Ability to communicate orally and in writing in English and French (the IPU's two official languages); additional languages are an asset.
- High level of technical knowledge relevant to the post, with work experience at national and/or international level.
- Current Swiss resident or work permit status (as specified in application requirements).
Required documents
- Curriculum vitae
- A brief description (maximum 200 words) of why they are the right person for the internship
- Information about availability to begin the internship
- Current Swiss resident/work permit status
When to apply
- The application deadline is 23:59 Central European Time (CET) on 3 September 2026.
How to apply
- Prepare the required documents, including your CV, availability, residency status, and a 200-word statement.
- Send your application by e-mail to job@ipu.org with “Internship” in the subject line.
Additional information
- The internship is for a one-year period.
- Based at IPU Headquarters in Geneva at 100%, though other options including telecommuting may be available depending on the placement.
- Particular attention is paid to candidates from developing countries and to achieving gender balance.
- Selected candidates will be expected to agree to the IPU Code of Conduct for personnel and the Fraud and corruption prevention policy.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Candidates with a strong commitment to parliamentary diplomacy and democratic principles.
- Individuals possessing professional fluency in both English and French.
- Applicants currently holding Swiss residency or a valid work permit.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires a one-year commitment, which may impact long-term career planning.
- Candidates must be prepared to handle sensitive information with high levels of discretion.
- While hybrid options may exist, the role is primarily based in Geneva, requiring local presence.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This internship is an excellent goal for those seeking to gain substantive experience within an international parliamentary organization. It offers a unique opportunity to bridge administrative support with programmatic research, providing a foundational understanding of how global organizations facilitate peace and sustainable development.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for early-to-mid-career professionals already based in Switzerland who are looking to pivot into international diplomacy. It is less suitable for those without French proficiency or those unable to commit to a full year.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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