The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) offers the Graduate Professional Program 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program is six-month opportunity, commencing in May 2025, invites international graduates to engage in research, reporting, and outreach related to Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS). Participants can choose between on-site work in Geneva or remote engagement.
UNIDIR, an autonomous UN institute in Geneva, conducts research on disarmament and security. It supports global efforts for peace and stability. The institute seeks a Graduate Professional to assist with research and outreach on Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS). Travel, visas, accommodation, and living costs must be covered by the participant or their sponsor. The application deadline is April 13, 2025.
Program Details:
- Institution: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Program Duration: 6 months
- Start Date: May 2025
Study Areas for UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program
- Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS)
- Disarmament and international security
- Policy research and analysis
- Conflict prevention and peacebuilding
UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program Benefits:
- Stipend:
- USD 1,331/month for participants based in Geneva;
- USD 665/month for those opting for remote work.
Benefits Not Included:
- Costs related to visa, travel, and accommodation are not covered
Eligibility Criteria for UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program:
Education:
- Must meet one of the following:
- Enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or higher)
- Graduated with a Master’s degree and starting within one year
- Preference for degrees in International Relations, Political Science, Social Sciences, International Law, or Gender Studies
Work Experience:
- No prior experience required, but knowledge of Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) is a plus
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office & InDesign
- Strong interest in UN work and values
- Ability to respectfully collaborate with diverse teams
Languages:
- Fluency in English (written & spoken) required
- Knowledge of another UN language is an asset
Key Skills & Interests:
- Strong research and presentation abilities
- Ability to summarize complex information into clear, concise briefs
- Strong organization and multitasking skills
- Excellent teamwork and communication (written & oral)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) & InDesign
- Interest in international peace, disarmament, youth engagement, and UN work
Responsibilities:
- Conduct background research on Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS)
- Engage with States, UN partners, and civil society on youth-related issues
- Support fundraising efforts and UN initiatives like Youth 2030
- Assist in event planning, outreach, and logistics (invitations, agendas, meeting summaries)
- Handle communications, coordination, and administrative tasks
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors
Competencies:
- Core UN Values: Professionalism, Integrity, Respect for Diversity
- Communication: Adapts messaging, writes clearly, shares information openly
- Teamwork: Works well with diverse teams to achieve goals
- Planning & Organizing: Manages time efficiently, anticipates risks, adjusts plans
- Creativity: Proposes innovative solutions, open to new ideas
- Client Orientation: Considers all stakeholders as clients and values their input
Required Documents:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program Application Process:
- Prepare a Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Save documents as SURNAME_Name_CV-CL.pdf
- Email the application to unidir.recruitment@un.org
- Use “UNIDIR Youth, Peace and Security GPP Application” as the subject line
- Submit before the April 13, 2025 deadline (late/incomplete applications won’t be accepted)
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Highlight relevant academic background and interest in Youth, Peace, and Security.
- Demonstrate strong research and analytical skills.
- Ensure clarity and conciseness in your cover letter.
- Proofread all documents to avoid errors.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Geneva:
- Accommodation: Approximately USD 800–1,200
- Food: Around USD 400–600
- Transportation: Estimated USD 70–100
- Miscellaneous: About USD 200–300
Note: These are approximate figures and can vary based on lifestyle and personal choices.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Participating in the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Program offers a unique chance to contribute to meaningful research in international peace and security. It provides practical experience within a UN agency, exposure to global policy discussions, and the opportunity to build a professional network in the field of disarmament and international relations
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is there an application fee?
- No, there is no application fee for this program.
- Is professional work experience required?
- No, professional work experience is not a prerequisite.
- Can I apply if I have recently graduated?
- Yes, if you begin the program within one year of your graduation date.
- Are there opportunities for extension beyond six months?
- The program duration is six months, with the possibility of extension.
- Is medical insurance required?
- Yes, proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the full duration of the program is required.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and application guidelines, visit UNIDIR’s official page:
