Are you interested in EU affairs, the Middle East Peace Process and the world of diplomacy and public policy? Do you want to learn more about the work of the EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process?

We offer:

A traineeship of 5 months with the Office of the EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process, whose mandate is based on the following main policy regarding the Middle East Peace Process:

The overall objective is a just, lasting and comprehensive peace that should be achieved on the basis of a two-State solution, with Israel and a democratic, contiguous, viable, peaceful and sovereign Palestinian State living side by side within secure and recognised borders enjoying normal relations with their neighbours in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs) 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) and recalling other relevant UNSCRs, including UNSCR 2334 (2016), the Madrid principles, including land for peace, the Roadmap, the agreements previously reached by the parties, the Arab Peace Initiative and the recommendations of the Middle East Quartet ('the Quartet') of 1 July 2016. In light of the different strands of Israeli-Arab relations, the regional dimension constitutes an essential component for a comprehensive peace.

The trainee will be fully embedded in the work of the EUSR MEPP Office, receiving direct exposure to its activities in the Middle East and in Brussels, and have the unique opportunity to understand the work of an EUSR from the inside.

Main tasks:

Under the supervision of the EUSR and in conjunction with three political advisors based in Brussels, the trainee will:

• Provide active input to the EUSR MEPP’s work.

• Assist the work of the team of Political Advisors.

• Conducting monitoring and research, as well as providing analysis and reporting on political, security, human rights and legal issues. 

• Take part in meetings and ensure timely reporting. 

• Draft briefings and background information.

• Contribute to and take part in the organization of meetings and events in Brussels.

• Assist in the organisation of missions of the EUSR and incoming visits.

• Contribute to communication, outreach and Public Diplomacy activities.

We look for:

Qualifications or special requirements:

• Master or Bachelor degree in international relations, political science, European studies, law, economics. 

• National of a Member State of the European Union.

• Excellent drafting skills in English.

• Proven interest for EU affairs and Middle East policies.

• Experience in research and analysis with attention to details.

• Good networking abilities as well as interpersonal skills.

• Experience in teamwork and in coordinating inputs from colleagues.

• Ability to handle politically sensitive issues in a responsible manner.

• Computer literate with practical experience in Microsoft Office.

• French language skills would be considered an advantage. 

How to apply?

Candidates must apply to the e-mail address EUSR-MEPP@eeas.europa.eu

and send their application form with the following subject: “Traineeship – EUSR MEPP”. Only application forms sent in electronic PDF format (not scanned) will be considered.

Important information to read before applying

Applications from non-eligible candidates will not be considered. 

The trainee will receive a monthly grant of 1,418.20€ according to internal and Belgium employment regulations. This amount is subjected to Belgium social security taxation. 

All costs related to travel, insurance, accommodation, and living expenses must be borne by the trainee.

The trainee will be responsible for costs arising from accidents and/or illness incurred during the traineeship and must show proof of a valid medical insurance coverage, including that they will be covered against the risk of a pandemic and the costs of repatriation.

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, their candidacy will be rejected.

The traineeships can only be offered in compliance with the local Belgian legislation