The UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025 offers an exciting funded opportunity for international students to gain hands-on professional experience with the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) in Geneva, Switzerland. This prestigious graduate internship program provides a unique platform to enhance skills in digital content creation, strategic communications, and digital marketing within a global UN framework.
The program is ideal for recent graduates passionate about international relations, communications, and public policy, offering an excellent career-building experience at one of the most respected institutions of the United Nations.
Summary of the Program
- Host Organization: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
- Program Title: Strategic Communications
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Program Duration: 6 Months
- Funding Type: Funded
- Eligible Nationalities: All international applicants
- Application Deadline: 2 November 2025
About UNIDIR
The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an independent research entity within the UN system. Based at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, UNIDIR is one of the few global institutions exclusively dedicated to disarmament, security, and peace studies. It focuses on generating data-driven insights, fostering dialogue, and designing innovative solutions for pressing international security challenges.
The Strategic Communications Team at UNIDIR is seeking a motivated Graduate Professional to support both internal and external communication efforts, ensuring that UNIDIR’s messaging remains consistent, impactful, and aligned with its institutional identity.
UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025 Details
- Program Title: Strategic Communications
- Program Duration: 6 months (starting December 1, 2025)
- Financial Coverage: Funded
- Eligible Nationalities: Open to all international applicants
- Award Country: Switzerland
- Application Deadline: 2 November 2025
Financial Benefits
Participants of the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025 will receive the following benefits:
- A monthly stipend of USD 1,331 to cover living expenses in Geneva.
- Note: Costs related to travel, visa, and accommodation are the responsibility of the applicant or their sponsoring institution.
This financial support ensures that selected candidates can focus entirely on gaining meaningful professional experience at one of the UN’s most respected research institutions.
Key Objectives and Responsibilities
Selected candidates will:
- Support and monitor UNIDIR’s editorial calendar and overall communications strategy.
- Update and manage website content including news, publications, and event pages.
- Design and execute email campaigns, newsletters, and digital outreach materials.
- Edit and proofread content to maintain brand tone and consistency.
- Assist with media production (photography, videography) and event logistics.
This role will equip participants with valuable skills in strategic storytelling, brand communication, and global engagement.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following materials:
- Completed Online Application Form
- Official Academic Transcripts
- Degree Certificates
- Cover Letter outlining motivation and suitability
- Passport Copy
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025, candidates must:
- Hold nationality from any country worldwide.
- Possess a university degree in a relevant discipline and commence the program within one year after graduation.
- Have a background in international relations, communications, public relations, or marketing (postgraduate studies preferred).
- Demonstrate proficiency in digital content creation and multimedia tools such as Canva, Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign.
- Be skilled in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiar with WordPress, Trello, and Google Analytics.
- Exhibit strong organizational, time management, and attention-to-detail skills.
Prior professional experience is not mandatory, making this program an excellent entry-level opportunity for aspiring global professionals.
No IELTS requirement and no application fee are needed to apply.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit applications for the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025 in Switzerland is 2 November 2025.
How to Apply for UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025
Interested candidates should send their complete application package as a single PDF file (titled SURNAME_Name_PHP) to:
unidir.recruitment@un.org
Email Subject: “UNIDIR GPP Application”
For full details and the official announcement, visit the Official UNIDIR Program Website.
In Summary:
The UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program 2025 in Switzerland is a funded UN internship offering global graduates an opportunity to gain practical experience in strategic communications and digital engagement. With a monthly stipend, professional guidance, and exposure to UN operations, this six-month program is an excellent gateway into international careers in public policy, diplomacy, and communication.



