Each year, as part of the educational outreach programmes undertaken by the United Nations, the Information Service at Geneva organizes a Graduate Study Programme. This seminar provides an opportunity for outstanding young postgraduate students from all over the world to deepen their understanding of the principles, purposes and activities of the United Nations and its related agencies through first-hand observation and study at the United Nations Office at Geneva.

51st Geneva Graduate Study Programme, 2013

"Gender equality and the empowerment of women”

The 51st Graduate Study Programme will be held at the Palais des Nations from 1 to 12 July 2013. It will comprise lectures given by senior members of the United Nations and the Geneva-based specialized agencies. Participants will also form working groups to study issues related to the work of international organizations on the chosen subject, under the guidance of United Nations experts. They will be provided with selected documents and publications on the theme under discussion. Please note that the Programme will be conducted in English and French without interpretation.

The postgraduate students invited to attend this Study Programme will be selected on the basis of their academic experience and motivation, with due regard to equitable geographical and gender distribution. Candidates must be between 23-35 years of age. As this is a bilingual programme, candidates must have a good knowledge of English and French.

Interested postgraduate students interested in the 2013 Graduate Study Programme must submit their application ONLINE before the deadline date of 15 February 2013. No applications will be accepted after this date.

The application form is to be filled in on our website, accompanied by a letter of recommendation (in English or French only) from a university or governmental authority; proof of enrolment in a Masters degree programme (or equivalent) and university diplomas obtained.

Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Successful candidates will be asked to provide a medical certificate attesting good health and proof of medical insurance coverage in Switzerland at the time of the internship. Applications from those already employed full time professionally cannot be considered. Participants are prohibited from applying for employment with the United Nations during their internship and in the six-month period immediately following the programme.

Candidates will be notified of the selection committee's decision by mid-April 2013. Participation in the programme is free. The United Nations does not make any financial contribution towards the costs of travel and accommodation of participants. Governments or universities may offer grants to selected candidates. Candidates should seek advice from their universities on this point.