CIEL Internship Program 2026 in Switzerland (Paid Opportunity)

If you’re a passionate law student or a young professional eager to make a real difference in environmental and human rights law. The CIEL Internship Program 2026 in Switzerland might just be your next big step.

In today’s world, where climate change, global justice, and sustainability dominate policy discussions, professionals with expertise in international environmental law are in high demand. This internship not only offers experience, but it also helps you build real-world skills in one of the most critical fields of the 21st century.

It is offered by the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) in Geneva. This paid internship program provides the opportunity to work directly with experts shaping global environmental policies.

Over 12 to 24 weeks, interns will gain hands-on exposure to international law, advocacy, and research while earning a monthly stipend of CHF 2,660. It can be a rare and valuable opportunity in Switzerland.

If you’re looking to bridge your academic knowledge with real-world impact, this internship gives you the ideal platform to grow as both a lawyer and a global citizen.

Here you will get complete information about the CIEL Internship Program. Read carefully to know more.

About the CIEL Internship Program 2026

The Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) is a respected nonprofit organization that has been leading global advocacy for environmental protection and human rights for more than three decades. In Geneva, it connects law, science, and activism to promote environmental justice.

The CIEL Internship Program is designed specifically for graduate and law students who want to deepen their understanding of international environmental law and human rights advocacy. This is a professional-level internship that combines academic learning with practical experience.

Interns work alongside lawyers, policy experts, and researchers on projects related to climate policy, biodiversity, environmental governance, and sustainable development. Whether you’re pursuing your LLM, JD, or a related graduate program, this internship equips you with essential insights into how legal strategies can drive positive environmental change.

This is not a remote internship. Participants will work on-site in Geneva, gaining firsthand exposure to the international legal community.

Quick Highlights

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Who can apply?

To qualify for the CIEL Internship Program 2026, applicants must:

• You must be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s, LLM, or JD) at a recognized university.
• You should be available for a minimum of 12 weeks, with a maximum internship duration of 24 weeks.
• You need to have prior exposure to international environmental law or human rights law, either through university coursework, research, or relevant professional experience.
• You must be able to work in person at the Geneva office, as remote internships are not permitted.
• You should possess excellent research and writing skills in English, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues clearly and effectively.
• Knowledge of other languages, especially French or Spanish, may be considered an advantage.

Why You Should Apply for the CIEL Internship?

While most internships focus on theory, CIEL gives you hands-on experience in real environmental and legal initiatives. You’ll be part of meaningful projects, drafting legal briefs, conducting research on international treaties, or supporting campaigns for environmental justice.

This internship is perfect if you want to:

• Understand how law intersects with sustainability and human rights.
• Learn how legal frameworks shape environmental policy.
• Build a professional network with experts from UN agencies, NGOs, and academia.
• Prepare for a future career in international organizations, environmental law, or advocacy.

Also Read: IMF Fund Internship Program 2026 in USA

Key Benefits

• Paid Opportunity – Interns will receive a monthly stipend of CHF 2,660, one of the highest paid rates for internships in Geneva.
• Professional Mentorship – Work closely with experienced lawyers, advocates, and researchers shaping international policy.
• Visa Sponsorship – CIEL supports the visa process for interns requiring authorization to work in Switzerland.
• Global Exposure – Experience working in an international, multicultural environment in the heart of Europe.
• Career Development – Strengthen your portfolio with real legal research, advocacy, and case analysis experience.

Documents Required

To apply for the CIEL Internship 2026, you must submit:

• Completed online application form
• Updated CV or resume
• Cover letter explaining your motivation and interests
• Academic transcripts
• Writing sample in English (legal or research-based)
• Passport or birth certificate

Important Dates

Hurry Up!

How to Apply?

Here’s how you can apply for the CIEL Internship 2026 in Switzerland:

• Visit the official CIEL internship page (link available on their website).
• Fill out the online application form carefully.
• Upload all required documents in the specified format.
• Submit your application before the deadline of 2 November 2025.
• Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews.

FAQs