The EU Delegation to Sierra Leone is offering a funded traineeship for young Sierra Leonean graduates who want a first-hand look at how European diplomacy operates on the ground in West Africa.
About the EU Delegation Traineeship Program
Administered by the European External Action Service (EEAS), the traineeship program runs across all EU Delegations worldwide as part of the EU’s commitment to building local capacity and fostering understanding of European values and policies in partner countries. The Delegation to Sierra Leone supports the country’s development agenda, stimulates inclusive growth and private sector activity, and fosters regional peace and economic integration.
Funding Size
- Funded traineeship covering a monthly allowance for the duration of the placement
- Duration: up to 6 months
- No tuition or application fees
Who Can Apply
- Sierra Leonean citizens currently residing in Sierra Leone at the time of application
- Holders of at least a bachelor’s degree in Law, Social Sciences, Political Sciences, Journalism, or a related field
- Candidates with less than one year of professional experience after graduation at the time the traineeship agreement is signed
- Other traineeships, student jobs, and volunteering carried out during or after university are not counted as professional experience for the purposes of the one-year limit
- Only applicants currently holding Sierra Leone citizenship will be considered, in line with local health and security conditions
Geographic Eligibility
- Sierra Leone only
- Applicants must be Sierra Leonean citizens currently based in the country
Sector or Thematic Focus
- Political reporting and analysis on Sierra Leonean and regional affairs
- Press monitoring and information management
- Public communication, social media, and visibility work for the EU Delegation
- EU foreign policy and development programming in West Africa
- International relations and diplomatic practice
Application Process
Applications are submitted by email directly to the EU Delegation in Freetown. All required documents must be included in a single email submission addressed to del-sierraleone-admin@eeas.europa.eu. Candidates are responsible for ensuring their application is complete before the deadline, as incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
Required Materials
- Motivation letter addressed to the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone
- Updated curriculum vitae
- Copy of university degree certificate or transcript
- Proof of Sierra Leonean citizenship
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 22 May 2026
- Tentative start dates: June 2026 and October 2026
- Duration: up to 6 months per placement
Selection Notes
- Only Sierra Leonean citizens currently residing in Sierra Leone will be considered; applications from abroad will not be accepted regardless of citizenship status
- Professional experience accumulated after graduation may affect eligibility; candidates close to the one-year threshold should review their status carefully before applying
- The program is competitive; a strong motivation letter and relevant academic background carry significant weight in the selection process
- The number of traineeship placements is subject to budget availability