Internships
Want to make a difference?

The OPCW internship programme is aimed at motivated students with an interest in gaining experience in international organisations. The programme normally provides work placements in the Technical Secretariat for a three to six month period.

The OPCW internship programme is open to those enrolled in both undergraduate and graduate programmes, or equivalent tertiary institutions.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the OPCW internship programme, you must be:

• enrolled in and have completed at least one year of a degree programme in a university (or equivalent tertiary institution) or; in a graduate school programme (second university degree or higher) or;
• have graduated from a university or a graduate school within a year prior to the commencement of the internship and;
• be a citizen of an OPCW Member State and fluent in both written and spoken English.

Participants in the Internship Programme receive no financial remuneration from the OPCW for expenses that they incur in relation to the programme. Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, living expenses and repatriation, etc. are the responsibility of the intern. The intern has to enter and exit the country in accordance with the applicable immigration procedures in The Netherlands.

Participants are responsible to have sufficient medical insurance (including coverage of costs of hospitalization for at least the duration of the internship plus one month) and third party liability insurance valid for the Netherlands for the period of their internship (both at their own cost). Participants are required to provide HRB proof of medical insurance and proof of third party liability insurance coverage. Should you be selected for an internship, you should provide proof of a valid health insurance that covers the territory of The Netherlands (including coverage of costs of hospitalisation) for the duration of your internship plus one additional month.

What level of English should I have?

English is the working language of the OPCW. Interns must be completely at ease with conversational and written English in order to participate in projects. The OPCW is a very diverse organisation with our team originating from over eighty countries. While we conduct business in English, it is not necessary for English to be your mother tongue.

Do I need to be able to speak any other languages?

The OPCW has six official languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, English, Russian and Spanish. While knowledge of an additional language is certainly desirable, routine business is conducted in English.

Do I need to be a citizen of an OPCW Member State?

To participate in the OPCW internship programme, you must be a national of a State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention.

Can the OPCW help with visa applications?

The OPCW will provide the necessary assistance to any intern needing to procure a visa upon request.

Will I hear from the OPCW if my application is unsuccessful?

Only successful applicants will be contacted.

Does the OPCW provide any financial assistance for interns?

A monthly stipend of €540 will normally be paid to participants of the Internship Programme. Payment is subject to monthly certification of service by the intern’s supervisor.

The OPCW provides no financial assistance towards the cost of visa, travel, accommodation or general living expenses incurred during the placement.

Do I need to have my own medical insurance?

Yes. Since you will not be insured under the medical insurance scheme provided to OPCW staff members, you will need to have your own medical insurance that includes coverage in The Netherlands.

Can the OPCW help me with the practicalities of relocating to The Hague?

Interns are responsible for finding their own accommodation during their time in The Hague. However, the Human Resources team can assist with any general questions and will facilitate communications with current interns whose experiences might be helpful.

What kind of supervision can I expect?

All interns will have a supervisor within their section to assist with orientation, and to provide guidance and structure on projects. All interns will be provided with a computer workstation.