We offer:

• A traineeship of up to 6 months for students undertaking a compulsory traineeship as a part of their studies, within the Political, Press and Information Section of the EU Delegation to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean States, the OECS and CARICOM/CARIFORUM, starting in July 2023.

• A rich and unique learning experience in a multicultural setting, working with international as well as local staff.
• An insight in the world of diplomacy and the work of a diplomatic representation in the Caribbean region.
• An opportunity to develop and improve essential skills and competences with the necessary guidance and room for creativity.

Main tasks:

The successful candidate will be expected to deal with a variety of issues and tasks, including but not limited to:

• Monitoring, analysing and reporting on internal and regional developments having an impact on EU policies and EU-Barbados/Eastern Caribbean relations, including analysis of the press.
• Supporting political dialogues between the EU and the countries by preparing briefings, speeches, presentations, etc.
• Contributing to the organization of high-level visits.
• Contributing to the communication and publication strategies in the area of public diplomacy, including the handling of social media.
• Assisting the Section in the organisation of visibility events and promotion material.

We look for:

Qualifications or special requirements:

• A highly motivated University Master student studying political sciences, international relations, economics, law, history communication, or any other social science, currently in 4th or 5th year of  a University or another higher-education establishment.
• A proactive individual, eager to learn with a sense of responsibility and able to work independently.
• Good drafting skills.
• Good communication skills.
• A demonstrated interest or experience in organising events.
• Working knowledge in English is required. 
• Interest in the workings of the European Union and international politics is an asset.

How to apply?

Candidates must apply to the e-mail address Lauranne.de-lathauwer@eeas.europa.eu and send the following documents:

• A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) (a cv in a standard Europass format is recommended https://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/
• a cover letter describing why you want to participate in a EU traineeship
• a University letter requesting a compulsory traineeship
• and an application form

Please mention in the subject of your e-mail: Compulsory Traineeship - Political, Press and Information Section

Pre-selected candidates will be invited for a short interview in the week of 26 June 2023 at the latest.

Important information to read before applying

Before applying you are requested to examine the dedicated website as well as the general eligibility criteria for a compulsory traineeships (Article 9 of the Decision ADMIN(2017)28 - Unpaid compulsory traineeships for students already residing and studying in the host country).

All costs related to travel inside the country of residence, visa, insurance, accommodation and living expenses must be borne by either the trainee or the University.

Applications from non-eligible candidates will not be considered. After the evaluation of all applications, shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited for an interview. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified by email. In case the selected candidate is not able to present the required documents, his/her candidacy will be rejected.

EU candidates who are already residing in the country of assignment must provide proof that they will be covered against the risk of a pandemic and the costs of repatriation.

The traineeship can only be offered in compliance with the local legislation. In assessing the applications received, account will need to be taken of the current sanitary situation and its effects on traineeship possibilities.

The Delegation informs that even if our Headquarters confirm the eligibility of the selected candidate, traineeships could be postponed, suspended or even cancelled considering the very evolving context of the COVID-19 outbreak in the host country.