Lauranne, International Security

Coming from Belgium, Lauranne de Lathauwer has graduated in International Security. Lauranne is >Political Attaché at the EU Delegation to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean States, CARICOM/CARIFORUM and the OECS  

As a regional hub, the Delegation covers seven small island states and three overseas territories. I am in charge of monitoring political developments, human rights, the rule of law and corruption in the region. I mostly have ad hoc responsibilities depending on high-level visits, global conferences, annual planning and reporting and/or political developments. As none of the EU 27 member states have an Embassy in Barbados, the EU Delegation also responds to consular requests from EU citizens and liaises with relevant embassies in the region accordingly.

How did you secure this role? 

I secured this role through the Junior Professional in Delegation Programme jointly run by the European Commission and the European External Action Service. It is a highly competitive programme that gives two young professionals per EU member state the opportunity to get a first-hand experience in EU Delegations around the world.

What is the most fascinating and/or surprising aspect at your role?

The most fascinating aspect of my role is its variety, as each day is vastly different. The most surprising aspect is the impact the EU has in the region through its many projects and programmes. EU support on the ground here, especially in countries recovering from natural disasters, is invaluable. To witness that impact up close is inspiring.

How did your PSIA experience help you with the role? 

I use what I learned at Sciences Po daily, from drafting reports to understanding geopolitical tensions to thinking critically and forming my own opinions. The knowledge I gained at PSIA gives me practical tools to use in my role, both in terms of theoretical knowledge and acquired skills.

What advice would you give to others?

As cliché as it may sound, my advice is to not give up on the future you believe is meant for you. I graduated in June 2020, when hiring freezes and telework were the norm. I submitted 37 applications, made it to a first, second and even last round for several positions, but received countless rejections and all too often no response at all. It is easy to feel defeated and discouraged, but it is important to keep the faith. In the end, I was lucky to get the EEAS Bluebook traineeship at the very last minute, which was oddly enough the first application I submitted back in January 2020. A year and two traineeships at EU institutions later, I am a political attaché at the EU Delegation in Barbados. While the process to get here required countless job applications, serious determination, hard work and resilience, I never stopped believing that I only needed one yes.

• About the European External Action Service
• About the Master in International Security