Applications are open for the prestigious Junior Professionals in Delegation (JPD) programme, a collaborative initiative between the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the European Commission (EC). This high-level international traineeship offers young professionals from EU Member States a unique opportunity to gain immersive work experience within European Union Delegations around the world.

The JPD programme is designed to provide early-career professionals with practical exposure to the external policies of the EU and a comprehensive understanding of the operations of EU Delegations. Through hands-on involvement, participants will deepen their knowledge of diplomacy, development cooperation, international relations, and global governance from an EU perspective.

Held every two years, the programme recruits junior professionals for placements in various Delegations. In the most recent round (2023–2025), 67 positions were offered. For the upcoming 2026–2028 cycle, a minimum of 54 trainees will be selected—two per EU Member State—with placements evenly divided between the European Commission and the EEAS departments. Additional roles may become available through financial support from Member States.

To be eligible, applicants must be nationals of an EU Member State and possess at least a Master’s degree in a field relevant to EU Delegation activities. Fluency in English and/or French is mandatory, and knowledge of other languages is a plus. Candidates should not have more than one year of experience working with EU institutions such as the EEAS or the European Commission by the application deadline. While prior work experience is not a strict requirement, those with up to four years of relevant professional experience will receive priority consideration. Extra-curricular activities, volunteer work, and published work are also considered valuable assets during the selection process.

Selected candidates will be posted to one of the 145 EU Delegations across the globe. Assignments may be focused on political affairs, communication, and public diplomacy under the EEAS, or they may center around international partnerships, project coordination, and humanitarian initiatives through the EC. These positions provide trainees with the chance to work at the heart of the EU’s foreign policy and external cooperation efforts.

Those chosen for the 2026–2028 round will sign a one-year traineeship agreement, renewable for an additional year based on performance. The financial support package includes a monthly stipend of 2,500 EUR, an accommodation allowance of 1,700 EUR, and an additional hardship payment depending on the location. Furthermore, trainees will receive a one-time settling-in allowance of 2,340 EUR, a travel grant of 2,926 EUR per year, and up to 1,800 EUR annually to cover insurance costs.

This traineeship offers an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring international professionals to build their careers and gain insight into the EU’s global mission, while living and working in diverse regions around the world.

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