The Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO) offers between three and five Programme Assistant (PA) positions each year, two in New York and at least two in Geneva. These are entry-level positions for recent graduates who are interested in international affairs and the United Nations (UN), and who have a commitment to Quaker principles of peace, non-violence and equality.
QUNO Geneva Programme Assistant Applications are Now Open
Applications are now open for two programme assistant positions at QUNO Geneva from September 2025 to August 2026 working on:
- Human Rights & Refugees
- Human Impacts of Climate Change
These are exciting opportunities for young professionals with an interest in international affairs to learn about and contribute to Quaker work at the UN. They are open to Quakers and those in sympathy with Quaker values.
The closing date for applications is 11 May 2025.
For consideration, view the job descriptions and application instructions here.
What is a Programme Assistant?
The PA position is a one-year placement that gives a young person the opportunity to live and work in Geneva or New York, and contribute to QUNO’s work. The position provides selected individuals with an informal extension to their education in international issues.
PA duties are split between programme-specific work and helping with the general running of the office. Programme work varies depending on the office and work priorities at any one time, but PAs can expect to monitor world news and developments in a particular area, attend UN meetings, plan events and conduct research.
Guidance is provided through one-on-one supervision meetings and regular programme planning sessions.
Geneva Programme Assistants
Programme Assistants receive a modest salary.
PAs are usually Quakers or those in close sympathy with the Religious Society of Friends. They are typically recent university graduates, with a strong interest in international affairs and a demonstrable commitment to building social justice in the world. A degree or equivalent qualification is the norm, and many have a postgraduate qualification. Fluency in English and well-developed computer skills are essential, and knowledge of another UN language is an asset, but not required. In Switzerland, this is considered to be an internship/trainee position.
These posts can only be offered to those who are eligible for employment in Switzerland (details in the Job Descriptions).
New York Programme Assistants
Programme Assistants receive a modest salary to help cover accommodation, food, and miscellaneous expenses. The position also provides medical and dental insurance for the year, if not already covered.
PAs are usually Quakers or those in close sympathy with the Religious Society of Friends. They are typically recent graduates of bachelors degrees, with a strong interest in international affairs and a demonstrable commitment to building social justice in the world. Fluency in English and well-developed computer skills are essential.
Applicants who are not US citizens sometimes have visa difficulties that can prevent their appointment as a PA. If you have queries about eligibility to work in the US, please contact us well in advance of the application deadline: quno@afsc.org.
