MSF Legal Internship – Apply Now for January 2026 Opportunity
The MSF Legal Internship 2026 offers law students and recent graduates a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in international humanitarian law, medico-legal issues, and operational legal support within one of the world’s leading medical humanitarian organizations. This internship is ideal for candidates seeking exposure to legal work in a multicultural, global context, where the application of law directly impacts vulnerable populations.
About the Organization / University
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), founded in 1971, is an independent, international medical and humanitarian organization providing care to people affected by armed conflict, natural disasters, and epidemics. The organization operates in more than thirty countries, offering impartial medical assistance without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, or political affiliation.
The MSF Swiss Operational Center (OCG) is home to the Intersectional Legal Department, which harmonizes legal advice and support across various operational centers. The department covers six thematic clusters: International Humanitarian Law, Medico-Legal, Human Resources & Duty of Care, Legal and Administrative Framework, Governance, and Innovation including Medical Research & Data Protection. Interns have the opportunity to engage with complex, cross-border legal issues while supporting MSF’s global mission.
About the Internship / Opportunity
The MSF Legal Internship offers practical exposure in a professional legal setting and includes:
Legal Support:
- Drafting notes, tools, and guidelines for operational staff in the field and at headquarters
- Drafting and reviewing contracts in English and French
- Follow-up on HR disputes and litigation in operational countries
- Legal research across multiple legislations, including employment, taxation, and contractual law
- Archiving legal files and maintaining databases
Legal Dossier Work:
- Depending on academic requirements, interns may focus on a specific Legal Dossier, integrating legal needs, academic objectives (such as thesis completion), and future career interests.
Duration: 6–9 months (full-time, 40 hours per week)
Mode: Offline
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Start Date: January 5, 2026
This internship enhances skills in legal drafting, research, comparative law, contract management, and litigation follow-up, providing professional mentorship and practical exposure within a leading humanitarian organization.
Event Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 2025 |
| Application Deadline | November 16, 2025 |
| Internship Period | January 2026 – July/September 2026 |
Location and Mode
Mode: Offline
Location / Address: Médecins Sans Frontières Swiss Operational Center, Geneva, Switzerland
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6–9 months |
| Working Hours | Full-time (40 hours/week) |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Legal Advisors and Managers, MSF OCG Legal Department |
Eligibility & Requirements
Applicants must:
- Possess a Master 2 Diploma in Law, preferably in corporate/private law
- Be enrolled in a Law School PPI or equivalent program
- Have English and French fluency, with excellent drafting and communication skills
- Demonstrate experience in legal research, summarizing information, and drafting contracts or briefing notes
- Be proficient in Microsoft Suite (Word, Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint); familiarity with legal design tools like Canva is a plus
- Have prior experience in a law firm, corporate legal department, or litigation follow-up, which is considered an asset
- Hold a tripartite internship agreement
MSF encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if not all qualifications are fully met, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Additional Highlights
- Certificate of Completion
- Mentorship by experienced legal advisors and managers
- Networking opportunities with international legal and operational teams
- Professional exposure to humanitarian and international law practice
- Opportunity to work on a personalized legal dossier aligned with academic and career goals
FAQs about MSF Legal Internship
1. Who can apply for this MSF Legal Internship?
Applicants with a Master 2 Diploma in Law or equivalent, fluent in English and French, with experience in legal research, drafting, or litigation follow-up, are eligible. A tripartite internship agreement is mandatory.
2. Is this MSF Legal Internship paid or unpaid?
The internship terms are not explicitly remunerated; candidates should refer to MSF for further clarification.
3. What is the last date to apply?
Applications must be submitted by November 16, 2025 through the MSF recruitment platform.
4. What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed online, followed by potential interviews and reference checks. Selection is based on academic profile, skills, and suitability for the Legal Department.
5. Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Yes. A Certificate of Internship will be provided upon successful completion of the program.
6. Can candidates apply if they don’t meet all listed requirements?
Yes. MSF promotes inclusivity and diversity and encourages candidates to apply even if not all qualifications are fully met, particularly benefiting underrepresented groups.
Important Links
Downloadables
- Sample Cover Letter
Contact Information
- Email: recruitment@msf.ch
- Phone: +41-22-849-8400
- Address: Médecins Sans Frontières Swiss Operational Center, Geneva, Switzerland