Applications are open for one of the most enriching and impactful learning experiences within the European Union’s institutional framework — a 10-month traineeship at the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA).

This is an outstanding chance for individuals with a deep interest in human rights and justice to immerse themselves in real-world work that supports the promotion and protection of fundamental rights across the European Union. FRA is widely respected for its evidence-based guidance and independent expertise, and it plays a critical role in ensuring that the values of dignity, equality, and justice are upheld throughout the EU.

FRA gathers and analyzes data on a wide spectrum of human rights issues, supports the EU institutions and national governments with tailored advice, and builds meaningful connections among the various actors working within the human rights landscape. Their mission extends beyond policy — they strive to raise awareness, strengthen accountability, and give visibility to fundamental rights challenges and solutions.

The traineeship programme welcomes candidates who have recently completed their university studies — applicants must hold a diploma no later than one month before starting the programme and not more than three years before the application deadline. This is not limited to those already in the workforce; it is also open to individuals starting a new professional path or looking to gain valuable first-hand experience. The programme is based primarily in Vienna, Austria, though one position will be located in FRA’s Brussels Liaison Office.

Those accepted into the programme will be placed in one of the Agency’s specialized units, where they’ll contribute to high-level projects with real-world implications. Each unit offers a unique perspective on fundamental rights, whether through research and policy, communications and media, digital transformation, event coordination, stakeholder engagement, legal analysis, or administrative support.

Trainees in the Director’s Office may find themselves helping prepare briefings for high-level meetings, supporting the management board’s secretariat, or assisting in the strategic planning and performance evaluation process. Others may contribute to the work of the Youth Advisory Panel, promoting youth participation in shaping human rights policy across the EU.

Those placed in the Communications and Awareness Raising unit might focus on transforming research into engaging content for diverse audiences, designing impactful visuals, managing social media strategies, or contributing to the Agency’s flagship publications such as the Fundamental Rights Report. Others may take on tasks like writing media statements, organizing press briefings, and coordinating communication during key FRA events.

Trainees in policy-oriented units such as Equality, Roma and Social Rights or Institutional Cooperation and EU Charter will explore legal research, analyze data, help draft reports and legal opinions, and support stakeholder engagement efforts. Meanwhile, those in the Justice, Digital and Migration unit will gain experience in legal and social research, data collection, survey analysis, and working with justice and home affairs institutions.

Opportunities also exist in the Administration and Data Protection units. Trainees in these areas may assist with recruitment procedures, contribute to IT and document management systems, or help manage procurement and financial reporting. In the Data Protection Office, they may review documents for compliance, support internal awareness efforts, and handle public access to documents requests.

Regardless of the unit, each trainee plays a vital role in supporting FRA’s mission while gaining practical, hands-on experience in a multicultural and intellectually stimulating environment. Trainees will grow both professionally and personally while contributing to work that has tangible impact across the EU.

The traineeship runs from 1 October 2025 to 31 July 2026 and is full-time. Applicants must be nationals of EU Member States, EEA countries, or eligible EU candidate and potential candidate countries. English proficiency at B2 level or higher is required, as it is the main working language at FRA.

This is more than a stepping stone — it is an opportunity to contribute to a greater cause, to collaborate with professionals who are shaping human rights in Europe, and to gain experience that could define a future career in international institutions, policy, advocacy, or law.

For those who are passionate about justice, equality, and human dignity, this traineeship represents a transformative chance to be part of something bigger — to learn, to contribute, and to grow. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply and take a step into a role that brings them closer to the heart of human rights work in Europe.

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