2026 Funded Traineeship at the EU Delegation to the African Union: Apply Now.
The EU Delegation to the African Union is now accepting applications for its 2026 funded traineeship for young graduates. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a diplomatic mission and understand how the European Union represents its interests and values in partnership with the African Union.
The traineeship will be hosted by the Political, Press and Information (PPI) Section of the Delegation, offering successful candidates an immersive experience in international relations, diplomacy, and communications.
Traineeship Overview
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Duration: Up to 6 months
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Tentative Start Date: 1 May 2026
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Location: EU Delegation to the African Union (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
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Section: Political, Press and Information (PPI)
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Funding: Fully funded traineeship
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the programme:
Residency Requirement
Due to local health and security conditions, only candidates currently residing in Ethiopia will be considered for this traineeship.
Educational Background
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Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
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Political Science
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International Relations
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Economics
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Law
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Other Social Studies
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Professional Experience
Candidates must have less than one year of professional experience after graduation by the signing date of the traineeship agreement. Please note:
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Other traineeships completed during or after university are not counted as professional experience
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Student jobs or volunteer work carried out during university studies are also excluded from professional experience calculation
Language and Technical Skills
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Fluency in English (excellent command required)
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Excellent analytical and drafting skills
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Strong understanding of and interest in African Union politics, economics, and governance
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Proficiency in editing and producing audiovisual content, social media materials, and communication products
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Experience using Canva or other design and editing platforms
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Strong communication skills across digital platforms
Personal Attributes
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Hands-on, proactive, and reliable attitude
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Openness to learning and professional growth
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Willingness to contribute ideas and take initiative
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Ability to work in a multicultural diplomatic environment
What the Traineeship Offers
Selected trainees will join the Political, Press and Information Section for an intensive learning experience that includes:
Diplomatic Exposure
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Gain insider knowledge of how an EU Delegation operates
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Understand the mechanisms of EU-AU partnership and cooperation
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Observe diplomatic negotiations and high-level meetings
Professional Development
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Work alongside experienced diplomats and communication professionals
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Develop analytical skills by monitoring political developments
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Enhance drafting abilities through report and briefing preparation
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Build expertise in EU-AU relations and African governance issues
Communications and Media Experience
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Create and edit audiovisual content for Delegation platforms
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Design communication materials using Canva and other tools
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Manage social media content and engagement
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Contribute to press and information activities
Networking Opportunities
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Interact with professionals from EU member states and African institutions
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Build connections within the international diplomatic community in Addis Ababa
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Engage with experts working on EU-AU partnership priorities
Key Responsibilities
Trainees in the Political, Press and Information Section may be involved in:
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Monitoring political developments in African Union member states
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Drafting reports, briefings, and analytical notes
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Assisting in the preparation of meetings and events
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Supporting communication campaigns and outreach activities
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Producing content for digital platforms and traditional media
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Contributing to the Delegation’s social media strategy
How to Apply
Application Documents
Candidates must submit the following documents via email:
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A detailed standard Europass curriculum vitae (CV) – CVs in other formats will not be considered
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Create your Europass CV here: https://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/
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A cover letter describing why you want to participate in an EU traineeship
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A completed application form (available on the official webpage)
Email Submission Details
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Send your application to: [email protected]
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Subject line must read: Funded Traineeship – Political Press and Information Section
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 3 April 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Selection Process
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All applications will be reviewed after the deadline
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Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews
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The final selection will be based on qualifications, skills, and motivation
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Only successful candidates will be notified
Important Notes
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Candidates must currently reside in Ethiopia to be eligible
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The traineeship is funded, but specific financial terms should be confirmed with the Delegation
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The start date is tentative and subject to administrative procedures
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Trainees are expected to commit fully to the programme for its duration
Why Apply?
This traineeship offers an unparalleled opportunity to:
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Launch your career in international relations and diplomacy
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Understand the functioning of EU institutions and their global partnerships
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Gain direct experience in EU-AU relations, a critical geopolitical partnership
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Develop practical skills in political analysis, communications, and diplomacy
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Build a professional network in one of Africa’s most important diplomatic hubs
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Enhance your CV with experience at a major international organization
Application Deadline
Deadline: 3 April 2026
Prepare your Europass CV, craft a compelling cover letter, and submit your application before the deadline.
For More Information
Visit the Official Webpage of the traineeship for young graduates at the EU Delegation to the African Union
Internal Links: Explore more EU career opportunities | International affairs internships | Guide to Europass CV
