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Positive action programmes

Ombudsman's Positive Action Scheme for trainees with disabilities

Since 2023, the Ombudsman implements a positive action programme for trainees with a recognised disability. 

Trainees in the Ombudsman's Office must necessarily have a very good command of the English language.

Applications must therefore be submitted in English. For the same reasons, the documents concerning traineeship applications are only available in English.

European Parliament’s annual positive action programme for contract agents

For the 10th consecutive year, the European Parliament is launching the Positive Action Programme (PAP) (2024 edition), an additional pathway designed to facilitate the employment of persons with a disability as contract agents. This initiative offers candidates with a disability the opportunity to work for the EU’s only directly elected institution, and it allows Parliament to ensure a diverse talent pool by attracting competent candidates.

Don’t miss the chance to be offered a one-year contract, with the possibility of an extension! You could also be placed in a European Parliament database in view of possible recruitment as a contract agent at a later stage.

European Parliament's Positive Action Scheme for trainees with disabilities

The inclusion of persons with disabilities is a priority of the European Parliament. In addition to the possibility of being recruited under the general selection procedure for Schuman trainees, persons with disabilities now have a greater opportunity to take part via the Positive Action Scheme for trainees with disabilities. Persons who have a long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment of at least 20% can apply to this programme. Shortlisted candidates from the Positive Action Scheme who meet the general eligibility criteria for a Schuman traineeship may receive an offer for a traineeship, once the European Parliament’s Medical Service confirms that they have a disability as described above. Successful candidates may receive an additional payment of up to 50% of the Schuman trainees’ monthly grant, to compensate for additional costs incurred.

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to trainees with disabilities in relation to the essential functions of their job. Appropriate measures where needed will be taken in order to enable a person with a disability to have access to, participate in, or advance in employment, or to undergo training.

When the selection procedure opens, apply via the following portal: https://ep-stages.gestmax.eu/website/application-informations

Locations: Brussels, Luxembourg, Strasbourg or the European Parliament Liaison Offices.

Council’s Positive action programme for trainees with a disability

The General Secretariat of the Council of the European Union offers up to 6 paid traineeships a year in different domains reserved for trainees with a disability.

Who can apply: 

These traineeships are reserved for graduates and third, fourth or fifth year university students of EU nationality with a recognized disability. 

Duration: 5 months

Paid: Yes. 1.340,47 € per month, reimbursement of travel allowance and GSC restaurant reduction card. Upon presentation of proper justification, trainees with disabilities may receive a supplementary amount up to half of the traineeship grant.

Starting Dates:

  • 16 February (application period around August / September - check at that moment for final dates).
  • 1 September (application period around February/March - check at that moment for final dates).

Location: Brussels.

For further information and to apply please consult the Council's website.

Discover the testimonies of trainees who have participated in this action programme.