Internship at International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Brussels

After graduating from Masters of Law programme at Vilnius University I decided to challenge myself and go for the unknown. I was always fond of traveling, exploring new cultures and life-styles so it was an easy choice for me. Thanks to Partners 4 Value I was able to secure 6 months internship at the world leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration. IOM works to help ensure the orderly and humane management of migration, to promote international cooperation on migration issues, to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems and to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need, including refugees and internally displaced people. This field of work is very a challenging and rapidly changing one considered massive migration numbers in Europe (especially in Mediterranean countries) and worldwide.

For an International and EU law graduate like me, who is willing to study French language and get to know how EU works, Brussels and IOM were a perfect fit. I was following-up the work of all relevant committees and working groups of the European institutions, including the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council, assisting in undertaking research, data collection and analysis on current situation and future prospects and trends, relevant to organization activities, in the EU and in third countries. As an assistant to the Head of Policy and Programme Support Unit I was responsible for Unit’s agenda, appointments, preparation for the visits of delegations, help for organization of seminars, conferences, official meetings, completing communication assignments etc. This wide range of tasks, very professional and helpful colleagues elevated my own working experience to a higher level. I have learn a lot and had a great time working in multinational, multicultural environment.

Brussels is called European Capital for a reason. I met a lot of professionals with various backgrounds and experience. I attended numerous conferences, cultural events, represented IOM and UN in Migration festival in Luxemburg and Brussels. That helped me to understand how the European Union and the United Nations work and coexist. After the planned 6 months internship I was offered to extend my internship and I still reside in Brussels. The city worked its magic and I found many opportunities to expand and deepen my knowledge and go further with my career goals.

I would once again like to note the importance of this project for the help making this internship possible and preparing me for the professional life after graduation. The value of Partners 4 Value is invaluable!

By Vytautas Ežerskis