''I work as an advisor on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Dutch Permanent Representation to NATO. As Head of Resources and Armaments, I ensure, together with my team, that NATO has the right financial, material and human resources to properly perform its tasks.''

''In addition, we are looking for ways in which NATO countries can jointly purchase weapons and equipment, such as ammunition, aircrafts or tanks. This saves on costs, but it also ensures better cooperation because NATO-member states can then use the same systems.''

''Working at NATO requires not only military knowledge but also an understanding of international cooperation. Since I started working here, I’ve seen how important it is to understand how the European Union functions. NATO and the EU are increasingly connected. Many NATO member states are also members of the EU, and the EU is gaining more influence in the field of security. The interaction between the two organizations is growing, and so is the importance of coordination.''

''Because my role requires me to connect with the EU, I see myself as a European Professional. I represent the Netherlands within NATO cooperation, at the headquarters in Brussels, right near the EU buildings.''

''The most challenging – and at the same time the most interesting – part is to operate smartly so that the Netherlands truly counts within NATO. You don’t automatically play in the Champions League – it takes effort. Fortunately, the Netherlands does have a lot to offer within NATO and the European Union, especially knowledge, experience, and technological expertise.''

Pieter-Henk Schroor

''I work as an assistant professor in International Security Studies at the Netherlands Defence Academy (NLDA). Within this academy, we offer university-level bachelor’s and master’s programs, such as War Studies and Military Business Studies. These programs are primarily aimed at military personnel, but civilian students can also participate. They are designed for individuals who wish to continue their academic development throughout their careers – either full-time or part-time.''

''The number of students at the Defence Academy has increased in recent years. Given the tensions in Europe, such as the war in Ukraine, you might expect people to be more cautious or fearful, something we also see in society. But among young people, we see a different trend. Theyactually show interest and a willingness to commit themselves to the defence of the Netherlands and Europe.''

''Traditionally, the focus in training programs for operational military personnel within Defence has been strongly on NATO. Military students are largely trained according to NATO rules and often conduct exercises with NATO partners. Knowledge about the EU has been less extensive, but this is changing. Cooperation at the European level is becoming increasingly important, and this is reflected in education and research: Defence training programs are paying more attention to EU-related security topics. For this reason, I have also written a textbook on the subject.''

''Students regularly go on study trips abroad, visiting key cities for Dutch and European defence policy, such as London, Berlin, and Paris. During these trips, they deepen their understanding of how different countries shape their defence policies and the roles the EU and NATO play in this. The NLDA also organizes visits, for all levels of education, to the EU and NATO, where we engage in discussions with staff members. Additionally, NLDA students do internships in Brussels, for example at the Dutch Permanent Representation to the EU. This gives them direct insight into current security issues and helps them better understand the roles NATO and the EU each play.''

Sabine Mengelberg

''As Business Development Manager at Hive Aerospace Collective, I connect companies, people, innovations, and capabilities within our ecosystem. Hive is the joint umbrella brand of the Royal Netherlands Air Force and Business Park Aviolanda in Woensdrecht. The companies within Hive focus on high-quality, flexible, and complex maintenance of civilian and military aircraft, helicopters, and their components. At Hive, we bring together partners from across the network, maintain relationships with organizations such as the Ministry of Defense, and actively seek new partners to further expand the ecosystem.''

''To act as a connector, I travel a lot in my role. Recently, I was in the United States looking for international partners in the industrial and defense sectors. But we are also actively seeking cooperation within Europe. For example, the Royal Netherlands Air Force recently acquired a new transport aircraft: the Embraer C-390. We aim to carry out the maintenance of this Brazilian aircraft within our own cluster. However, building a solid business case based solely on the Dutch aircraft is quite challenging. By involving the maintenance and logistics needs of other European countries, we can jointly create a strong and attractive case –both for the ecosystem and the customer.''

''If you want to collaborate with European countries and add value to this sector, you need to understand how the EU works. Defense procurement requires knowledge of EU processes, an understanding of how EU lobbying operates, and insight into who to approach. Fortunately, we are affiliated with umbrella organizations such as the Netherlands Aerospace Group and the Netherlands Industries for Defense and Security Foundation, which represent our interests and maintain contacts with national and European policymakers.''

Sander van Nieuwenhuijzen

''Since this year, I have been the chair of the Jonge Atlantici, a youth organization focused on transatlantic security issues and geopolitics. Our target audience is anyone between the ages of 18 and 35 with an interest in international security and defense. We organize monthly events to connect young people with experts, policymakers, or politicians. For example, last year I had the opportunity to moderate a discussion with the then Minister of Foreign Affairs Hanke Bruins Slot. Looking back, I’m quite proud of that — it’s not every day you get to question a minister. I also think it’s really fulfilling to see that our contributions are being taken seriously. My ambition is for our generation to truly influence the political discourse in the Netherlands on international affairs. That really motivates me.''

''A big misconception about the Atlantic Assocation and Young Atlantic Association is that we serve as a voice for the United States. But that’s not the case — we’re not advocates for U.S. interests. Instead, we always view transatlantic issues through a Dutch lens. What we are is a platform for young people to discuss the relationship between Europe and the U.S., by and for youth.''

''The European dimension is also very important to us. Some people still think you have to be either “transatlantic” or “pro-Europe,” but we believe in an and-and approach. A strong Europe is essential to remain a relevant partner for the U.S., and a strong transatlantic bond benefits Europe as well. Strengthening European defense capabilities fits well within this vision, especially now that more and more people realize the EU needs to step up in order to stay globally relevant.''

Lotte van den Boom

''As Minister of Defence, it was my responsibility to provide political leadership to the ministry and the armed forces. This involved formulating and implementing the Defence policy of the Kok I Cabinet. I was also, of course, co-responsible for the general international policy of that Cabinet. In addition, I was Minister for relations with the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.''

''All of this required a solid understanding of how the European Union operates within the broader framework of international relations. This was already an important topic when I was appointed Professor of International Relations and Development at Wageningen University in 1979. After that, I held similar positions at three other universities. Dutch defense policy operates within the European, NATO, and UN frameworks. In today’s geopolitical context, it’s more important than ever to work together across many countries.''

Since I worked closely with European colleagues, I considered myself, in a sense, a European professional in this field. Now, as the Germans would say, I’m 'in dem Ruhestand'. That means I take things a bit slower, but in my retirement, I still stay active. I write opinion articles, books, give lectures, and serve on boards, for example, with humanitarian organizations active in Ukraine. I continue to commit to causes that I believe are important.”

“What I would like to pass on to the younger generation? Be warned about dictatorship and military aggression. We are accustomed to freedom, while, for example, the Russian population is heavily oppressed by their own government. And: keep a close eye on the news; make sure you really understand what European and international cooperation can mean for the future of our world.”

Joris Voorhoeve

''I work on the project team for ‘Dienjaar Defensie’. My tasks vary depending on what’s needed at the time. For example, I help evaluate ongoing projects, such as this year’s recruitment campaign for 1,500 new Defense Year soldiers. I contribute to that by getting people excited about a career in defense. I also organize events — I recently put together an information session in Amsterdam that attracted 300 visitors. Through various stands, they were able to talk to colleagues who explained their work and the career opportunities within the Dienjaar Defensie. The variety is what makes this job so enjoyable.''

''Besides that, I’m also involved in the defense minor offered by The Hague University of Applied Sciences and NHL Stenden: the National Resilience Training. In this minor, students spend a semester diving into the world of defense. They’re trained to become reservists, with a role in protecting and securing critical infrastructure. It’sa great example of collaboration between the defense sector and education. The first three months of the minor take place at a vocational school, university of applied sciences, or university. The final three months are the initial military training phase, where students are trained as basic soldiers.''

''Dienjaar Defensie is aimed at young people between 18 and 27. We want to introduce this generation to the Dutch armed forces and make them aware of the value they can both contribute and gain. We show them what they can offer Defense, but just as importantly, what they get in return: experiences that support their personal development. I myself worked as a reservist alongside my studies and saw firsthand how much it added to my growth — both professionally and personally.''

''What makes this especially meaningful for our organization is the European dimension. The Dienjaar is inspired by Sweden’s defense model, but adapted to the Dutch context. Other countries have already shown interest in our approach — and who knows, maybe one day we can be a model for others within the EU, just like Sweden was for us.''

Mattijs Lap

"A lot of people think my job involves meetings with secret sources. But as abresearch journalist covering defense policy at Follow the Money, I mostly just do a lot of research. On a daily basis, I’m digging through archives, rewatching parliamentary debates, analyzing companies and talking to sources to keep a critical eye on the defense sector."

''Not everyone is always eager to hear stories about what’s going wrong. I often get told: ‘Why so negative all the time? A lot of things are going well too.’ But every ministry — including the Ministry of Defence — has a whole team of spokespeople to tell the positive stories. They’ve got that part well covered. My role as a journalist is to press where it hurts.'

''I take that critical lens to the EU as well — especially when it comes to how Brussels handles money. There are all sorts of plans for defense funds, and that immediately raises questions for me about transparency and accountability. Where is that money going, and based on what criteria? Right now, I’ve submitted information requests to several ministries about the European Peace Facility. I want to see the Dutch receipts. Holding spending to account might sound like bookkeeping, but it’s at the heart of any democracy. And getting clarity on it turns out to be incredibly difficult — even the Dutch Court of Audit often finds defense spending a puzzle.''

''Right now, I’m mapping out the Dutch defense industry, but in the coming period I want to focus more on writing about European defense cooperation. There’s simply too much happening to keep looking only at the Netherlands. Like it or not, Brussels is where the direction is largely being set.''

Dieuwertje Kuijpers

“As a Research Manager at LCP Delta, I lead research on electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across Europe. This involves developing forecasts for EV and EV charging technology until 2035, and even 2040 for heavy-duty vehicles. To build these forecasts, we use a variety of sources, including talks with industry contacts and our EV driver survey, which provides insights on charging behaviors. My day-to-day tasks include staying up to date with industry news, preparing client calls, and conducting primary research through industry contacts.”

“The work we do is closely tied to EU strategies and policies, particularly in the transport sector. Policies like the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars and emission reduction targets for trucks significantly influence our research and the businesses we work with. We compile lists of clean energy incentives across Europe, which are crucial for understanding market influences. These incentives vary by country and are a major driver for clean energy technologies, especially EVs.”

“My work benefits Europe by supporting businesses, organizations, and government agencies in delivering clean energy solutions. This contributes to Europe’s Green Deal targets. While I may not work directly for the EU, my efforts help ensure these goals are met.”

“Understanding how the EU operates is essential, though not in exhaustive detail. My focus is on the transport sector, where I interact with car and EV charger manufacturers, energy suppliers, and governmental agencies. This collaboration is vital for gaining industry insights and supporting our clients.”

“I consider myself a European professional. Growing up and studying in Europe has equipped me with the tools to understand and tackle regional issues. My connection to EU policies and the impact of decisions made in Brussels is strong, particularly in the energy sector, which requires significant policy guidance.”

“One major challenge is the perceived instability in policy enforcement, such as the 2035 ban on diesel and petrol cars. Businesses need clarity and stability to prepare long-term plans. There should be more coordination at the EU level, including funds to support these targets, providing a stable environment for planning and investment.”

Monica Troilo

"Throughout my 30 years at the Center for Renewable Energy Sources (CRES), I've been involved in several different projects related to the EU Green Deal. A recent example is SMAFIN, which is an initiative co-funded by the European Union’s Programme for Environment and Climate Action (LIFE). Another European project we have contributed to is Kids4Future, where we promoted the importance of green energy in school education.

"CRES works in projects at the EU level, but also at the national level. For example, we do some projects for the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy, providing policy feedback from EU projects such as crossCert, where we review the energy performance certificates for buildings in Greece. This puts CRES at the crossroads between the EU and national interests."

"Communication is an important aspect of my work. Engaging and cooperating with a European officer, who rarely has time for you, is not easy. That is why having good communication skills is really important for the job. So much of our work is directly connected with the EU, I would not be able to do my job efficiently if I could not communicate properly with our EU partners."

"I never imagined my professional life would revolve around the EU, especially given my academic background in engineering. Am I a European professional? That depends on how you define it. While I have never physically been to Brussels, I’ve worked extensively across nearly all other EU capitals. I feel deeply European, and for several years, I’ve been actively promoting European values."

Vassiliki Papadopoulou

"In my work as sustainability analyst, I advise companies on how to reduce their emissions, with the goal of an emission reduction of 55% by 2030 and, at the end, climate neutrality by 2050. A specific EU directive that I work with is the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), where I help companies navigate through the requirements of the directive."

"Advising companies requires a lot of knowledge about environmental policies. Our goal is to make the rules more tangible and understandable to our clients, because a regulation can get misinterpreted or even overinterpreted. That is why we do research, to understand what our clients need to comply with based on the different EU environmental legislation."

"We inform our clients of the latest environmental standards and help them to achieve them. In essence, we bridge the public and private sectors, making sure that companies adhere to environmental standards. Companies should stop viewing the Green Deal only as a compliance tool. It also offers opportunities to help companies in taking the next steps in terms of sustainability and profitability."

"Although my work is in the private sector, I am actively involved with stakeholders and clients that influence EU policy making. This might not be the textbook definition of an EU professional, but I am actively engaged with the EU and its regulations on a daily basis. Without that engagement, the success of my clients in becoming more sustainable cannot be guaranteed."

Tiago Mendes

"Throughout my career, I have tried to bridge the worlds of academia and policymaking. Next to my work in the academic sector, I have been an advisor to governments at the international climate negotiations and have served as a member of the compliance committee of the Kyoto Protocol. I know the world of politics and policymaking a little, and I try to connect that to our research activities."

"In our research group, we do research on EU legislation and policy initiatives, such as the European Green Deal and its Fit for 55 legislative packages. We analyze the content and the outcomes of the legislation. For example, we ask: What kind of governance framework is being established, how is it modified and reshaped? That is our daily bread. We analyze legislation as it exists now and think about how to improve it."

"Policymakers often do not have the time to read lengthy academic work. Academic articles are, in general, too specialized and use too much jargon for people who are not academic experts. We realized that there is a need for a closer connection, and thus try to bridge the worlds of academic research and policymaking with a number of initiatives."

"One of those initiatives is GreenDeal-NET, an academic network of universities across Europe and beyond investigating Green Deal issues. We aim to engage policymakers through 'policy link activities'. For example, we synthesize the policy lessons of research by preparing short summaries. Through initiatives like these, we identify possible solutions for certain problems. Whether those options are picked up and used eventually is up to the policymakers. A good way to see it is like this: our research provides the factual basis for a political debate. We see our role as framing and feeding debates with valid arguments, thereby shaping it indirectly."

Sebastian Oberthür  

“My focus is on the energy transition aspect of the Green Deal, particularly carbon capture and storage (CCS). I help startups like Hovyu develop technology to capture CO2 from sources such as waste and energy plants. Leveraging a network built over 15 years, I identify market opportunities and secure funding from the EU and national governments to support these innovative solutions.”

“Much of my interaction is online, but I also attend global conferences and trade missions regularly. For instance, I’ve been involved in hydrogen technology initiatives in South Africa and Brazil, aligning with the EU’s hydrogen strategy. It’s about finding the sweet spots for these technologies and connecting with interested companies to create impactful partnerships.”

“The Green Deal unifies various initiatives into one comprehensive framework, setting crucial standards for the industry. My job involves translating high-level policies into practical applications. Knowing the EU’s standards for green hydrogen helps me advise companies on compliance and potential partnerships, ensuring that they meet the necessary criteria.”

“Analytical and technical skills are essential for this role, combined with effective networking and public speaking abilities. Despite the EU’s reputation for bureaucracy, the detailed standards actually safeguard innovation and funding processes, benefiting small and medium enterprises by providing clear guidelines and support.”

“My job exemplifies how professionals can drive the European Green Deal’s vision into actionable projects, contributing significantly to a sustainable future. Each project, no matter how small it may seem, plays a crucial role in the larger mission of achieving environmental sustainability.”

Leon Stille

"My role came about thanks to a joint effort by the province, municipalities, and knowledge institutions in Friesland. They saw opportunities for the province to be more successful with European projects and then established EuropaPact Fryslân. This demonstrates a nice development in our province, knowing that Friesland has a role to play within the international community.

Our main goal is to be a catalyst for more and better European cooperation projects in Friesland. As an advisor, I support parties in the province that are interested in this. Depending on the subject, this can involve companies, foundations, municipalities, or knowledge institutions.

My role as programme secretary varies depending on the project. I am engaged with network building, project development, or grant writing that we make available to support the submission of a large European grant. Often organizations approach me requesting funding for their local projects with European money. My response then is "That’s very nice, but what is the added value of your project for Europe?”. It’s essential to think about what you contribute to the European community and what benefits Europe gets out of it. You don't get money from the EU just like that. It’s meant to achieve European goals which are often quite similar to our national goals.

In my work, I find it very important to set up quality and effective European projects. My task is to transfer my expertise on these types of projects onto the parties responsible for their application or implementation. This can include knowledge of available funds, how they work, required partners, and the application process. Ultimately, it’s about the European partners being able to help our Frisian partners further and vice versa. Throughout all these steps, I can offer practical guidance.

In order to be successful in this work, you have to be able to translate European issues and policy goals into understandable language for individuals or companies. I understand the major challenges facing Europe (and Friesland as well) and can apply them to the local level in our province. Creativity, belief in the importance of your mission, and a positive attitude are qualities that can be put to good use here!"

Anne Henk Bloemhoff

"The European Union deals with everything that affects people. All those people live in municipalities. That is why municipal administrators, like me, are directly affected by what is decided in Europe."

"For this reason, the EU has the Committee of the Regions. In this Committee the representatives of municipalities and provinces from all over the EU gather. The representatives from the Netherlands are nominated by the Association of Dutch Municipalities. Currently I am one of those people."

"In the Committee of the Regions we advise on legislative proposals drawn up by the European Commission. We address our viewpoint to the European Parliament, among others, so that parliamentarians can take our interest into account in their decision. At the same time, we use this role to lobby our own government on text proposals of new European legislation. This role also offers opportunities to draw attention to Westland's interests in Europe. We must ensure that we do not miss our opportunity to exert influence."

"A European role like this requires patience, tact and diplomacy. Being patient is not always my strongest side. When we have something good, I always prefer to have it effectuated immediately. The lead time in these types of processes is often two years or longer and you are never sure if your input will eventually be adopted. You have to be able to accept that you can't always get everything that you hope for."

"Although I work for Dutch interests in Europe and the European interest as a whole, I don't necessarily consider myself a ‘European professional’. I am simply an administrator from a municipality that finds it important to work for Dutch interests in Europe."

Bouke Arends

"Many policies made in the European Union affect the policies of provinces in the Netherlands. For that reason, each province is also represented in the European Union. My colleague and I are representing the province of North Holland. We work together with colleagues from other provinces in an office; the House of the Dutch Provinces (HNP)."

"Provinces do not have a formal place at the table in European decision-making. So basically I am a lobbyist. We try to bring the interests of our province to the table at the European institutions. For example, I have a lot of contact with the Dutch Permanent Representation to the EU, which negotiates EU legislation on behalf of the Dutch government. I also have contact with MEPs or European Commission officials. We usually do this with collaborative groups such as the Committee of the Regions or ERIAFF, a network of European regions that is committed to innovation in agriculture and forestry."

"Whether they are interested in listening to us? Sometimes they are and sometimes they aren’t. I can't call the same person at the Commission every week, but there is definitely interest within the EU on what is going on in the regions. Everyone realizes that we have to implement a lot of EU policies. So they are very keen to hear about what is going well and where things are failing."

"I work in Brussels, but I also often visit the provincial government building in Haarlem. There I am just one of the colleagues. My field of work is particularly in the agriculture & food dossier, which is very important for the large horticulture and seed distribution sector we have in our province. As a result, I have a lot of contact with my agriculture colleagues to hear what is going on, what is important and what policies we want to influence."

"When I started out in this role, it was overwhelming to me how big everything is in the EU. If you've studied political science or European Studies you think 'I get it all'. But then you come to work in Brussels and you notice; there's so much more! It can be quite overwhelming, but you get into it quickly enough. Still, I am sometimes startled by the legal language in the documents coming from the European Commission. It's really about small details and the language can sometimes be tricky. That's why it's important to do this work with several people."

Luc Haverkamp

"I fulfill the important function of bridge builder between the Rotterdam Port Authority and the European policy world. Our goal is to inform the outside world of our activities. We do this in many different ways, from informative brochures to discussions with experts in relevant fields. We actively put issues on the agenda that we believe need improvement in legislation. This means that we regularly go to the European Commission and the European Parliament."

"Despite our status as the largest port in Europe, certain aspects of our port remain relatively unknown. For example, our efforts in making shipping more sustainable or the port's need for wireless connectivity such as 5G. We actively seek to raise awareness of these aspects as they help us achieve our broader goals as a port. In doing so, we collaborate a lot with other organizations. It is vital to act together, especially when we have common interests or views. Strong relationships with European partners and other organizations strengthen our voice with those who make policy."

"Understanding and following EU legislation is also essential in my profession. Early involvement, especially with the European Commission, is crucial. After all, making a change early in the legislative process is much easier than at the end. This requires prioritization on our part, as we cannot follow everything at once. Some issues are more urgent than others, that's where we focus our efforts."

Jeffrey van Noortwijk

“My role entails supporting the Dutch Labour Party (PvdA) in the Province of Fryslân. We see that there are often issues where the influence of the European Union is noticeable. Within the Provincial Council we have a special committee for European affairs. Our PvdA member is the chairman of this committee, so we collaborate a lot. In this committee, council members discuss their objectives regarding the EU. My role is to make sure that our members are well informed during these meetings.”

“Although we usually work based on current events, I would like to spend more time on a deeper analysis of what is happening at the European level and how our province can respond to this. It is very important that we are well informed about the European legislation coming our way, because we often have to implement them as regional authorities. Many of our legal duties as a Province have their origins in European regulations. The implementation of European legislation thus becomes a political issue that is discussed in the state party.”

“As PvdA in Fryslân, we work closely with both the national and European branches of the party. We act as a link to pass on local insights to our European group, who can then investigate whether similar problems arise elsewhere in Europe. Our European group can also inform us about their activities. In this way we keep the lines of communication short and can work together on solutions.”


Thomas Veenstra

"My role with Team Europe mainly focuses on the theme of digitization. I act as an information broker, connecting developments in Brussels with those in The Hague. Creating awareness about Europe and its possibilities is very important. We organize various activities to raise awareness, especially during Europe Day. On this day, among other things, we gave a master class to colleagues about the upcoming laws and regulations from Brussels and their impact on our city."

"The municipality has many opportunities to get more out of Europe. Administrative attention is essential for this, because the official level is also often involved. As Team Europe, we are working to raise awareness at various levels, from official to administrative. Switching between interests and target groups is an important aspect of my work. I put myself in other peoples’ shoes and consider what is important to them. By listening carefully to colleagues from different directorates, I can better respond to needs and promote cooperation with Europe."

"There are still many opportunities to deepen this. Sometimes it takes time to discover the right networks. But it is well worth the effort, because there is much to be gained in Europe for a sustainable and successful future for our city."

Evelyn Leiva Deantonio

"My team includes grant consultants and lobbyists. Together we are dedicated to optimizing European opportunities. We want to ensure that both the internal organization and the residents of The Hague benefit from what Europe has to offer. One of our main goals is to develop a Europe strategy. During a "road show" within City Hall, we will soon be talking with employees and directors to gather their insights."

"Why is this European perspective so crucial? Over 70% of the policies we implement stem from EU legislation. It is essential that we plan ahead and can anticipate European policies. For instance, the Single Use Plastic (SUP) directive from July 1, 2023, limits the use of disposable plastic for food and beverage pickup and delivery. This directive applies to all European countries, including the Netherlands. This has an impact on business owners, residents and even for us in the company canteen. Therefore, it is important that we know about the developments early on and be able to prepare different groups."

"We not only focus on policy and subsidies, we also look at networking and knowledge exchange within Europe. We try to learn from other European cities tackling similar challenges to ours. Europe provides not only financial support, but also valuable knowledge that we can leverage."

"My team’s work revolves around monitoring policies, making contacts and taking advantage of opportunities. In addition to perseverance and thoroughness, it is important to develop good project proposals in cooperation with colleagues and external partners. The goal is to put The Hague on the map as a European player, to strengthen our profile with The Hague’s ideas in addition to those of Peace, Law and Justice."

"All in all, I feel like a European professional, even though I have been active in this position for a relatively short time. I consider myself a representative of Europe within our city hall and try to offer the right services with my team to promote this perspective. Almost every day I cycle through The Hague and see the opportunities and possibilities Europe has to offer!"

Eline Beemsterboer

"In my working life I have done many different things, but I encountered Europe in everything I did. Originally I am a physician and I currently work as an international health expert. In all kinds of countries I work on the question: how do you get health systems set up in such a way that people have access to quality care? Earlier I worked as a university lecturer, which is when I became very interested in Europe. Later on I became politically active as a member of the Lower House on behalf of the Dutch Labour Party. When I was an MP, I chaired the committee that dealt with European affairs."


"My background is in health care, but gradually I became convinced that all subjects are connected. Whether you bring something in from education, health or business, you end up with the same issues. Different disciplines used to be very separate, but today you find much more. International institutions like the EU and the United Nations also play a role in this. With their policies and programs, such as the Sustainable Development Goals or the European Green Deal, different disciplines coincide more often."


"Europe used to be seen as a foreign policy area. In recent decades you see that Europe is a part of everything you do. I am less concerned with the institutions, but much more with Europe as an arena of activities. Yet I also had to learn how all the institutions work. In the Lower House, for example, I had to read the European treaty front to back, which the Netherlands voted against by referendum. Hundreds of pages of text. For me this treaty represents a monument to many years of work and all kinds of people trying to make something together!"

Godelieve van Heteren

(‘the election guys’), we try to get young people involved in politics. We do this through various cultural formats, such as theater performances, election shows, podcasts, workshops, and teaching programs. This is how we engage people in democracy and major social issues. Currently, we have been working on our theater show 'In search of Europe'.”

“We were always the ‘political nerds’ in our friend group. We loved reading, social debates and following the news, but we saw that our peers from the same generation were less interested in these things. We noticed that there was very little entertainment around politics, so that's when we came up with the concept of an election show. An evening full of music, satire, interaction, and from there, all these other formats came naturally. Just like the EU actually. It starts small and then it expands.”

“Not a single day is the same for me. In the morning we often do a check-in with the team and then we have time for appointments. Right now, I am meeting with several partners to set up new projects towards next year's European elections. In the evenings, we perform our theater production 'In search of Europe'. So, we are shuffling a bit between consulting, brainstorming, and performing our productions.”

“After the theater shows, people always come to us and say that this is the first time they started thinking about whether they feel European and what that means to them. We like to hear that something has started to spark in people’s minds, that is when our mission succeeds.”

“We don't know everything about the EU, but I think we know an above-average amount. We read up as much as we can for our productions. I had never really thought about it before, but I do consider myself an EU professional. Every day I am involved in many different projects, both in the Netherlands and in other EU countries. That does make me an EU-professional.”

Dylan Ahern

"As Head of EU Policy at the Dutch House of Representatives, I am supporting the democratic control of European political decision-making in the Netherlands. The core component of our work is to advise Members of Parliament on European issues that are relevant to them. It is important that they know what's going on in the European arena and are well prepared to conduct debates with ministers representing the Netherlands in Brussels."

"The Dutch government is accountable to the House for everything it does, including their activities in Europe. For example, prior to each European summit there is a debate in the House about what the Netherlands will say at the occasion. Members of Parliament then receive a letter from the government about the agenda. We, as EU advisors, inform Member of Parliament about what else they need to know by providing additional context and background. We also suggest questions they could ask the government."

"It is a big challenge for the House of Representatives to keep track of what is going on in Europe. There is a lot of information, often technically complex, and it’s just one of the components that Members of Parliament are working on. Our House of Representatives consists of many small political parties, so each party has to follow everything with a small number of people. I'm always impressed by the amount of work Members of Parliament have to digest."

"The team currently consists of nine EU advisors, each with their own substantive focus. In terms of knowledge and background, we often look for people who have experience working in Brussels with European decision-making. You must understand how EU decision-making works in terms of processes and preferably know a particular policy area as well. You have to be able to explain and advise well; you are a specialist who has to convey something to a group of generalists."

"If there has been a debate and I notice from the questions that Members of Parliament are well informed thanks to the advice of our team, then I go home satisfied. During debates on the topics that I specialize in, I am also present in the House. Before a debate or during the adjournment, Members of Parliament regularly come to me with questions or for additional explanation. It's nice to be able to help them on the spot."

Louis Middelkoop

"In my daily work I am focusing on Public Affairs; representing the interests of our municipality in The Hague, the seat of our national government, and the European Union. The two are often directly linked. Many policies find their beginning in Brussels and then appear on the national Dutch government agenda. Eventually, it also lands within the municipality."

"There are various reasons for a municipality to get involved with EU-related matters. Many of us initially think about subsidies. We also had that focus, but right now this is slightly shifting. We have started to put more emphasis on influencing policy. Policies made in Brussels will influence what will happen over here in a few years. We try to discuss it and engage now, to avoid having it hover over us like a dark cloud at a later stage."

"Our work can entail very practical things. Take for example the railroad line that runs right through the city. In order to support the Green Deal, the EU plans to increase rail freight transport by up to 50%. At the same time, in The Hague, our national government has the ambition to build a lot of housing within cities, particularly near stations and railroad lines. These two things might clash."

"I thought I was an EU expert because I learned a lot about the EU in my education. However, now that I am involved with 'Brussels' and occasionally go there, I notice what happens in practice and through informal networks. Consequently, you do get a different picture. I think the road to becoming an 'EU expert' is much longer than I initially thought. It requires a lot of reading and speaking with many people."

"I carry out my work primarily in the Netherlands. However, that doesn't mean that I am not in contact with Brussels. Next week, for example, an MEP is coming here for a visit. We will show them how we, locally, deal with the policies they debate. If we successfully manage to organize such a visit, I look back on my workday with a good feeling!"

Naomi End

“Within the European Union we have the free movement of goods, people, and labor. In my position at the UWV, I deal with the last one; supporting and promoting labor mobility in Europe.”

“On behalf of the Netherlands the UWV is a member of the EURES network, a European network of public and private organizations that supports and promotes working across EU borders. Also, I am coordinator of so-called TMS mobility programs in the Netherlands. Here we use subsidy programs of the European Union to support migrant workers with, for example, relocation and language. Furthermore, I make connections between members and partners of the EURES network in other countries and support the various components of EURES in recruiting candidates for vacancies in the Netherlands and Europe. Also worth mentioning is that through a digital broadcast EUREStv we address current topics, such as opportunities in Europe, developments in the labor market, services in different countries, and much more.”

“To be effective in my work, it is important to be open to other cultures and ways of working. You have to be able to establish contacts, spot opportunities and respond to them. We always work from the idea of 'fair mobility', helping people to work under fair working conditions. By informing people as well as possible, we hope that they can land better in the new country, and eventually want to stay longer.”

“My job is very much in the middle of all the practical action. However, there is a lot of administration that comes with it too. It almost always involves custom work where accuracy and record keeping are important, as you are working with people who are about to face a life change. Although the administrative work can be tough at times, I enjoy my job at UWV. My job is complex, but I always try to explain it in a simple way: we support labor mobility in Europe and offer information, advice, and projects to help people find work in other European countries.”

Kevin Sikma

"My role within the Public Affairs department revolves around representing the interests of our members in interactions with the government, ministries, and politics, as well as with so-called implementing agencies. My own expertise lies at the intersection of sustainable mobility and car taxes. This is primarily a national issue because car taxes do not fall under the jurisdiction of the European Union. Nevertheless, my colleagues often deal with topics that have a clear European dimension, such as access to vehicle data from cars. This is regulated at the European level through directives like the new Data Act and sector-specific legislation, including vehicle type approvals."


"My work always sparks conversations. People often find it fascinating. Some hold incorrect preconceptions about the profession, thinking that lobbying involves socializing and buying influence. Fortunately, lobbying in the Netherlands and Europe is quite different from what you might see in American Netflix series. It primarily involves presenting a well-founded narrative with strong arguments, which civil servants and politicians weigh against each other for fair decision-making. There are certainly 'off-the-record' discussions because civil servants work independently and do not want to be associated with lobbyists. And politicians want to claim successes, so if you can assist them, you should remain in the background."


"My educational background is in European public administration. Europe has always piqued my interest, even when my work was not directly related to it. Now, I spend about a quarter of my time on matters involving Europe. I feel familiar with European institutions and spend a few days in Brussels on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. I am a national professional, but with a dark blue background and yellow stars."

Rogier Kuin

"As EU Career Ambassador, I inform students about their career opportunities within EU institutions. I tell them about traineeship opportunities at job fairs and career events at the University. At those events I meet with students who, for example, study Law or International Relations and would like to do something within Europe after their studies."

"I myself did a bachelor's degree in International Relations and Organisations in Groningen, so I already had a lot of interest in politics and the EU. Last year, I heard that the Career Ambassador vacancy was open and then I applied to the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO). In a training organised by EPSO, I learned a lot about how things work in Brussels. "

"Students often ask me for insider tips to get a traineeship. I don't have one advice that seals the deal, but I can tell students which aspects are important for a traineeship, such as languages, studies and work experience. Every six months, there are many applications of which about 800/900 are selected each half year."

"After a working day, I feel satisfied and fulfilled when I notice that students learn something from what I tell them. It's nice to be thanked and to hear that students didn't know certain things about the EU before talking to me. It makes me feel that I was able to help them explore their career options."

Eline Huizing

“For six months I have been working as a representative for FME, the entrepreneurs' organization for the technological industry. Together with the colleagues in my team, I represent the interests of our members in The Hague and Brussels. In doing so, I focus specifically on innovation and industry policy.”

“Our companies account for about one-sixth of total Dutch exports. A significant share! Our end up all over the EU and the world. At the same time, we notice that value chains are becoming more complicated due to trade conflicts and geopolitical tensions such as those between China and the United States. The European dimension is super relevant here. As far as we are concerned, Europe should pursue "industrial politics," as other major economies in the world are much more daring to do. In this way, we as Europe can continue to participate globally.”

“In daily practice, European regulations affect our members in many ways. For example, the EU has rules on state aid. A government may not financially support a certain industry because it distorts the market in the EU. In practice, EU countries sometimes interpret these rules differently. It is in the interest of Dutch companies that our country does not interpret the rules more strictly than France and Germany for example. At the same time, it is essential that investments in innovation are coordinated at the European level as much as possible to avoid an uneven playing field. This is of great importance for the strategic autonomy of our continent. This may be an issue that we address in our discussions with the government.”

“During a work week, I do many different things. I speak with officials from various ministries and we attend debates in the Parliament on innovation, technology and industry. For the elections to the Dutch and the European Parliament, we share our priorities. An agenda is written in which political parties can read what we think should be in their election programs about technology, industry and innovation. I also regularly organize working visits, for example for Dutch or European parliamentarians to visit our members.”

“My work is mainly in the Netherlands, but we have a lot of contact with our European umbrella organization in Brussels. They work on advocacy with the EU institutions on behalf of our sector. In that umbrella organization there is a working group on Research & Development and Innovation, of which I am a member. In it we discuss matters such as Horizon Europe, an important innovation subsidy program of the European Union. We believe that the manufacturing industry should be well represented there, so that European technology can contribute to important social transitions throughout the Union.”

“To be successful in this work, you must know what your point of view is and be able to communicate it well. You also have to know which person to approach for which reason. What is your story and should I be in Brussels or in The Hague? I also talk a lot with our contacts from other countries. A little empathy for other people's points of view is important here. For example, in one country, industry has a much better image than in another, and that affects the point of view people take. It is good to be aware of that kind of background and constantly learn from each other.”

Niels Back 

“The consultancy firm Lysias helps local- and regional governments in navigating European regulations on state aid. If a municipality, province or other authority wants to give financial support to entrepreneurs, there is always someone who says "Brussels doesn’t allow that!". But many people don't know exactly how that process works. Of course, not everyone in a municipality has studied EU law. Then they need a specialist and they call me.”


“At the foundation of the European Union is the desire for peace and security. We want to achieve that by creating one single market. This way, an attack on your neighbor is also an attack on your own economy. To ensure that companies are treated equally in all countries, the government within member states is in principle not allowed to provide subsidies to entrepreneurs. But, there are all kinds of exceptions to this. For example, if the support is good for the environment, innovation or pollution control. My clients' questions are about all sorts of things. I give state aid advice on professional football, museums, hospitals, housing projects, sewers; you name it!”


“Many lawyers work in the field of state aid, because everything is embodied in rules. But with those rules also comes economics. For example, is there an investment or a financing gap? Then you need someone with an understanding of numbers who can assess things like exploitation costs, investment, depreciation and interest. At the same time, we deal with politicians who say; I made a promise and just want to spend this amount before the end of the year! This creates political pressure, legal pressure and economic pressure. You have to bring those three elements together to manage state aid.”

Melvin Könings

“The Dutch Ministry of Interior and Kingdom Relations seconded me to the Directorate-General for Home Affairs and Migration (DG HOME) through the National Experts in Professional Training (NEPT) program for six months. DGs are like ministries within the European Commission. My specific area of work within DG HOME is anti-corruption and public integrity. Within the DG I am involved in, among other things, the annual rule of law report. This report examines the developments in the European member states, such as in the field of anti-corruption and strengthening public integrity.”

“The NEPT program offers civil servants from EU member states the opportunity to be posted at the European Commission for a period of three to five months. It is a great way to contribute to significant work, and to gain insight into the working methods of the Commission. You also bring the knowledge and experience from a Member State to the EU. So for Member States and the European Commission, the program is a win-win! For the NEPT program it is not necessary for you to be an EU expert already, you learn mostly in practice. Before I came here, I had never experienced a council working group for example.”

“Brussels is a mixture of cultures and backgrounds. You work with colleagues from different countries every day. In conversation with colleagues, you learn a lot about the culture and practices in other member states. The NEPT program indirectly contributes to a broader European outlook, where you also think beyond Dutch borders and ideas. Although everything is done in English, you constantly come into contact with other languages. For example, I have now learned quite a few words of Italian, Czech and French!”

“Am I a European professional? Absolutely! I am seconded from the Netherlands, so I still feel like a Dutch civil servant, but I consider every Dutch civil servant a European professional. It is good if civil servants are aware of the European dimension in their work. Regardless of the subject matter, there is almost always a European component.”

Tessa Lansbergen

"I'm responsible for the social media of the VVD in the European Parliament. My task is to present the work of the Members of the European Parliament to the Dutch public in a visible manner. By creating relevant content and sharing it appropriately on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X, I aim to bring Brussels closer to the Netherlands."

"It's of great importance to make European politics engaging and understandable for the Dutch public. Many people have a feeling that Brussels is ‘far away’, both physically and due to the complexity of the explanations. This can put people off. It is my challenge to translate the complicated structures and policies into something that resonates with people's perceptions at home."

"Online communication within European political parties is often still in its infancy, which offers many opportunities to use social media effectively in European politics."


"It's a dynamic working environment, as everything can change quickly. It's essential to have a good sense of what's going on. Here at the European Parliament, you quickly develop the political instincts needed for that."

Annelot Deibel

"My colleagues and I advise the municipality of The Hague on the best ways to become more sustainable. This may be in terms of climate mitigation or climate adaptation. Our work has a strong focus on European relations because as a city we hope to obtain European subsidies, especially in the field of sustainability. Therefore we are working on a strategy to strengthen our cooperation with Europe."

"It can be challenging within our municipality to highlight the importance of the EU in the field of sustainability. My job is to bridge the gap between European relevance and local content. In my position, it is essential to have knowledge of both Europe and sustainability. I find it is useful to be able to operate as a generalist, but also to be knowledgeable about both aspects, so that I can really act as a connector."

"Sometimes combining these two aspects can be challenging. Policy officers are often subject matter experts working at the local level. For them, the EU sometimes seems far away. Here in The Hague, problems are local and tangible, while in the EU they are often approached theoretically and scientifically. Language differences and jargon can also make communication troublesome."

"Yet I find that the "European story" gets a foothold within our organization, especially when it helps people in their work. EU grants are a helpful asset for this, as they give a clear answer to the question 'what's in it for me?'."

Martijn van Stam

"In every EU Member State you can find representatives of the European Commission. I was sent to The Hague by the Commission's Directorate-General for Translation. I deal with the subject of language and culture in a broad sense. This involves linguistic work such as translation and editing, but I am also concerned with the topic of multilingualism in the Netherlands; how is it doing, how are schools and universities dealing with it?"

"Language or culture is not a formal competence of the European Commission, so member states can form their own policy. But there is no question that the EU is a multilingual democracy. From that perspective, promoting multilingualism in member states can only be beneficial. For that reason, I work a lot with organizations such as the Language Union and the Institute for Dutch Language, as well as with universities and schools. For example, we are committed to getting young people in schools excited about language and translation."

"Apart from the fact that all EU legislation is published in 24 languages, 'language' is also a relevant and important component of EU legislation. For example, a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) law is coming soon from the European Union. This law will contain details on how to deal with that technology. Language technology is often supporting AI tools. This creates a need of working with the member states and explaining language technology; what is interesting about it and what might be dangerous?"

"Before taking this job, I first worked as a freelance conference interpreter. Then I joined the European Parliament as a translator, and then as an advisor to the director of the translation service. When you translate or interpret for the European institutions, you are part of the entire legislative process. For example, an interpreter sits in the preparatory meetings for legislation, a translator then considers the legislative proposal. This then passes through an arsenal of interpreters and translators at the Parliament and the Council. If you translate or interpret in such a process, you must surely know something of the content as well. Lest it become a case at the European Court because of discrepancies between the various translations of a legislative text..."

Emma Hartkamp

"As a teacher, I teach subjects throughout the entire European Studies program in Leeuwarden. This involves both broad knowledge subjects, which I teach in front of the class, and project subjects in which I have a coaching role. I am also the coordinator of the minor Cross Border Migration, Governance and Security, and a member of the examination board."

"The person who knows everything about the European Union? I have yet to meet that person! I am still learning every day. Yet people usually see me as an expert on Europe. To be fair, I think a challenge lies in the fact that the European Union is quite complex. This is shown by the fact that the average Dutch person does not have that much knowledge about it unfortunately. With my position, I hope to contribute to addressing this problem by training students who can apply their knowledge about the EU in their future workplaces."

"This knowledge is very important. After all, Europe is continuously influencing different aspects of daily life. It’s valuable to be aware of this. It is my goal to teach students to understand how and why EU policies are created, how you can influence them and how local, regional and national politics relate to Europe - and vice versa. Many people, especially in the Netherlands, regard the EU as something external, although we are actually part of it. It’s a misconception to think that everything is imposed upon us. We are one of 27 member states, of course not as big as France or Germany, but we do have a big finger in the pie."

"I consider functioning in an international environment an important skill for a European professional. Learning to deal with cultural differences is therefore one of the learning objectives within our training. I fully understand the current discussion on the increase of international students, but in our case, studying in an international environment really adds value."

Hidde Wedman

"Universal Music Group is the world's largest investor in music and music-related entertainment. It is important to us that copyright functions well. Copyright is regulated worldwide in international treaties, EU legislation and national legislation. At each of these levels, I work with branch organizations and others to strengthen copyright law."

"My work day usually varies and I travel quite a lot. Usually I’m in Brussels or Strasbourg for a few days, and the next week I'm in another European country. Sometimes something pops up on the agenda. Then I have to be able to speak to someone in a particular country within a few weeks, but sometimes the legislative process takes a long time. This is usually the case within the EU. I take the time to speak to different people and have cups of coffee with them to explain who we are, and what we do. European legislation can sometimes take years, but on the other hand, sometimes it can be quick. I have to keep track of many things at all times, but fortunately I have help."

"As a student, I was active in the SIB and other European student associations. I was involved in politics, played in bands and was a band manager. Culture, music and politics are specialties I keep close to my heart. I think in lobbying you have to understand the issue you are lobbying for, and also have some passion for it. Though don’t have so much passion that you become deaf to arguments from people who disagree with you."  

"Sometimes I have to pinch myself. For example, I was recently in Zagreb one day speaking with the Minister of Culture, and the next day I was in Vienna speaking with the head of the Prime Minister's Office in a huge Habsburg building. The following weekend I went to an Eros Ramazzotti performance, where I spoke to people I barely knew as if we went to school together."

Robbert Baruch

"At the Dutch embassy in Stockholm, I work as a temporary Senior Project Officer for the EU Presidency. Currently, Sweden holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for six months. Therefore, many delegations are coming from the Netherlands to Sweden for consultations. Keeping the delegations 'happy and on time' is my responsibility. My role is to provide them with all the information they need for their visit."

"The logistics for those meetings can sometimes be quite difficult. The other day Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren and Foreign Trade and Development Minister Liesje Schreinemacher were here at the same time. Each one takes a number of people with them. Think of a spokesperson, personal secretary and a policy officer from the ministry. When it comes to how many persons a delegation can bring, Stockholm is quite strict. Usually the minister is not allowed to bring more than three others. Therefore, the challenge is to make sure that they can also bring a fourth person if the ministry wants to."

"In The Hague I work a lot with the Accreditation Officer, who takes care of the logistics and administration. I also have a lot of contact with the organization of the EU meetings here in Sweden and the so-called liaison officer, which is the minister's contact person during the meeting. Together we prepare for the delegation's arrival and I try to find out information as quickly as possible about the various activities that will take place."

"Although it is not necessarily essential for me to know the content of what is going on, it is helpful if I know a bit about how things work in Brussels. I find it interesting to see a press conference after the organized meetings, when they share what was discussed and what came out of it. For example, our Defense Minister met with her Swedish colleague Minister Jonson in a panel discussion at a think tank on the war in Ukraine. The next day in the newspaper you read about the joint purchasing of munitions in the EU. I can see the world behind the news that often remains invisible to me as a citizen."

Elis Dijkstra

"My role is policy advisor at the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, a German political foundation. Our foundations are unique in Germany and beyond, closely associated with political parties in the national parliament. For us, it's the Christian Democratic Party, the party of former Chancellor Angela Merkel and Konrad Adenauer, the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany."

"Our role is to promote the principles and values of the party. Originally focused on promoting democracy within Germany after the world wars and dictatorship, we expanded in the 60s and 70s to other regions, developing an international network. We have 30 offices in Europe and around 100 worldwide."

"In our European Office, we have two main portfolios. Firstly, we closely follow decision-making processes at the European level, focusing on topics relevant to Germany as an important EU member state. Secondly, we handle bilateral projects for the Benelux countries, including coordinating activities in Brussels, The Hague and Luxembourg. Many of our colleagues have both aspects in their portfolios."

"Working at a political foundation requires a general understanding of politics, including how the EU and its institutions operate. It's important to have a grasp of decision-making processes and political dynamics. While it's not necessary to know everything in detail, a general understanding of the EU is necessary."

"My job involves writing reports on EU and national political landscapes. I also organize events, working on everything from content to logistics. The work can be unpredictable, with long days and weekends when important decisions are made. However, being part of this environment and reporting on it is fascinating."

"As a European professional, I hope to contribute to a successful and united continent. The European Union offers us the opportunity to speak with one voice and make a difference in the world. However, we must not take our achievements for granted and actively promote the values of a strong Europe. In the years to come, I hope to see many more European professionals who share this vision and work towards a better future."

Kai Gläser

"A university has three main tasks. These are to teach, conduct research and make social impact using knowledge and expertise. The latter is a large part of my responsibilities. In order to make an impact, you need to collaborate strategically with partners in the Netherlands, Europe and the world. I focus especially on Brussels and the European Union."

"There are several reasons for a university to be active in Brussels. First of all, we get about 20% of our research funding from European programs. Secondly, Europe is increasingly coming up with plans that directly affect universities. For a long time, funding was the main reason for universities to look to "Brussels''. Now there are opportunities to use the knowledge we have to make our mark on what happens in Europe. Our university is focusing on topics such as climate change, the social impact of artificial intelligence, health care and peace, justice and security."

"In my position, I follow what is going on in Brussels and identify what is relevant to the university. I am also involved in profiling and showcasing our university. This means offering our knowledge and vision to other European institutions. Another task of mine is to gather and distribute knowledge and expertise of the EU within the university. By doing this, our students, staff and scientists from different disciplines come together to work together on major European themes."

"Besides making policy and setting strategic lines, I also do quite a lot of practical work such as preparing working visits. We choose a topic that is important for us as well as for the European Union and then I go knocking on various doors. These doors are at the European Commission, at the Parliament, and at the Dutch Permanent Representation. Next, I say we are researching this subject here in Leiden and we see how it is relevant in Brussels. These visits give us a chance to offer our knowledge on many subjects and often lead to something wonderful. One of our experts was recently invited to participate in an expert group on European raw materials policy, while another colleague sits on the board of the Mission for European Soil Quality. By sitting at the table, your knowledge contributes directly to future European policy."

"To be in this position, you need a mix of skills. You need to be able to present a clear story to European policy makers. You also need to be good at networking and, above all, not to be shy! Calling, emailing and talking to a lot of people is the key to success. The great thing about Brussels is the culture is very open and approachable, which makes networking enjoyable. In the Netherlands, and sometimes within our university, people often find the EU difficult and distant, but I don't experience it that way at all. So take that train to Brussels!"

Marc Holtkamp

"I have been working at railroad contractor Strukton for about 14 years now. Initially I was responsible for the maintenance and innovation department, but after a reorganization I became involved in a European lobby organization of the railroad industry. My director at the time was interested in this organization and I was assigned to go there."

"At that time this organization was concerned with the research funds for ‘rail’ that are available from the EU. They wanted to attract more of these funds and use them more strategically. The EU went along with this idea, with a condition: we expect the sector itself to also invest money in return. We agreed with this, and that is how we as Strukton entered the European game."

"When I first joined the European lobby group, I thought, 'what kind of world am I actually getting into'? As a construction engineer, I had no experience in lobbying. My assignment was: go to the working groups of that lobby group, make yourself known and make sure you represent Strukton's interests. Nowadays, I speak to some of the stakeholders on a regular basis and can also call or text if there is a reason to do so. The accessibility of the people working at the EU is actually very low key. But initially it was all very exciting."

"My management now often views me as the ambassador for the EU. They look at me with the question: what is going on there, how does that fit in with our work and what should we do with it? I also have a role in the implementation of European projects, for example the Horizon Europe program. That is a whole game in itself with subsidy schemes, grant agreements, justification of costs and so on. In that role, I am in constant conclave with our company's financial administration. My job is a special one, with a great affinity for what we do at Strukton but at the same time a lot of knowledge about how the EU subsidy programs work."

Henk Samson

I am employed as a consultant at a specialized firm that focuses on spatial policies and economic matters, encompassing areas such as tourism, recreation, and mobility. Our clientele primarily consists of municipalities and provinces in the Netherlands.

Within this role, we frequently engage with European Union (EU) subsidy programs. Specifically, when dealing with projects pertaining to energy, climate, or circular economy, we actively explore opportunities for European collaboration. While numerous possibilities exist for governments and other organizations in Europe, it is crucial to carefully select the appropriate subsidy scheme and craft a tailored application. As consultants, we offer assistance to organizations by leveraging our expertise in these areas.

The European Union develops a wide range of policies, including the European Green Deal spearheaded by Frans Timmermans. This initiative encompasses various specific policy objectives, each of which is assigned a corresponding budget through European subsidy programs. When applying for a subsidy project, it is essential that the project aligns with the broader European goals.

Securing a grant not only provides funding but also fosters knowledge exchange and contributes to the development of both your own region and other regions in Europe. It is crucial that the solutions researched can be effectively implemented in other European locations. Therefore, it is imperative to adopt an open mindset and actively engage in European programs, extending beyond one's own borders. Establishing international partnerships or leveraging networks to establish contacts is vital. Merely working on isolated projects within the confines of one's office will not suffice; a collaborative mindset is essential.

One noticeable aspect of international project groups is the Dutch inclination towards efficiency. Lunch breaks are typically completed within half an hour, and in a three-hour meeting, three hours are dedicated to productive work. In other countries, however, a different approach may be observed. This discrepancy is not indicative of laziness; rather, it highlights the significance placed on fostering personal connections. Occasionally, extending lunch breaks to spend more time getting to know your European counterparts can greatly benefit the collaboration efforts.

Rutger van Raalten

I cover all the news related to the European Union and Belgium. My job is constantly changing, but what always comes back are the European Commission press conferences in the afternoon, the Councils of Ministers during the week, and a monthly plenary session of the European Parliament. Next to that, I am confronted with reports from, for example, the European Court of Auditors or rulings from the Court of Justice of the European Union.

My job requires a good understanding of the European decision-making process and the interaction between the EU institutions. It is often said: "Brussels decides this", but then nobody really knows what that means.

I have the feeling that the Dutch find the word "Brussels" scary, and if it is mentioned anywhere they do not read further. Too many people know too little about the EU's democratic processes. That should really be improved. I also see this with the editorial colleagues in The Netherlands. I regularly encourage them to come and visit us in Brussels. Fortunately, this is encouraged by the chief editors.

The highlights of my job are the EU summits. For several nights, the main players of the EU come together. I see Macron or Scholz and talk with Mark Rutte. All the important topics are discussed, negotiated, and fought over. On those nights, I can see how the EU works from up close.

Petra Janbroers 

“I began working at a Dutch NGO for nature & environment in 1996 as a strategist. My focus was on cooperation with politicians in The Hague. After some time, the European Union was incorporated as well. In Brussels, for example, we became active in certain networks of nature and environmental organizations.”

“One of the bodies in the EU is the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). This committee brings together representatives from employers, employees, and civil society organizations to advice on EU regulation. In the Netherlands, only the Consumers' Association was represented as a civil society organization for a very long time. In 2015, my NGO decided to nominate me as a member of the EESC. Since then, I have been representing the 'Green11' in Brussels, an alliance of thirteen Dutch nature and environmental organizations. In the meantime, LTO and WOMEN Inc., two other Dutch civil society organizations, have joined the EESC, as well.”

“The EESC is a massive melting pot of interests, perspectives, ideas, and cultures with over 320 members from the 27 EU member states. On the one hand, this makes it difficult to develop a common vision and concrete, supported advice. But on the other hand, it is also extremely interesting and enriches your knowledge and understanding of other views. If you want to enjoy being active in the EESC, you must enjoy seeking consensus and finding compromises within all these interests. To work in Brussels, you must be open to other people's ideas.”

“At the EESC I was, among other things, rapporteur of opinions on the European Climate Law and the 'Fit for 55 package'. Now I am a rapporteur on the reform of the electricity market. What matters for us that the European Commission or the European Parliament adopts certain points from our work into legislation. These are the greatest successes we can make.”

“It takes about two years to get used to the bubble of Brussels with all its institutions and also such a large committee as the EESC. For example, I had never heard of the EESC before 2015, even though I knew a lot about European decision-making. There is much to discover in Brussels.”

Jan Dirx

“From my job at the municipality of Winterswijk I am seconded to the 'Europe and International' team at the Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG). In that team my colleagues and I deal with European directives.”

“Before a European directive becomes a law in the Netherlands, the Dutch Government issues a so-called 'Assessment of New Commission Proposals document'. We ask municipalities in the Netherlands what their opinion is on the content of this document. For example: what would a municipality encounter if this were to become law? I mainly work with directives in the environmental field. This involves questions such as: how does this directive affect a municipality in terms of soil or air quality? We as VNG make one position on behalf of all municipalities and put our efforts to bring this to the attention of the European Commission and the European Parliament.”

“In this profession you are always lobbying. We often succeed, but sometimes we don't. To be successful, you need to have a sensitive political antenna. The longer you do this job, the better that antenna gets. You also need to be a genuine connector between people. Making compromises is an important part of that. Success is not achieved by getting even, but by seeing where you have common ground and where you can meet. Sometimes you have to take for granted that you cannot win.”

“To lobby successfully, you must have a good story. I always study the issue I am working on and I make sure I have practical examples from the Netherlands when I go to Brussels. It's even better if you can get a member of Parliament from Brussels to come on a working visit to the Netherlands to look at those examples.”

“When I feel that my work is of high quality, everyone has been able to make their contribution and really positive things come out of it, then I go home happy at the end of my working day.”

Nicky Eppich

"For the Dutch Parliament, I keep an eye on developments and propositions in European legislation in Brussels. A lot of Dutch legislation derives from the European Union. Some EU laws even take effect immediately in the Netherlands once they have been approved in Brussels. Dutch members of parliament need to be aware of this. Additionally, I persuade members of the Dutch Parliament to travel to Brussels to speak with the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Dutch Permanent Representation on their dossiers. In my job you have a lot of meetings and plan frequent working visits in order to create connection between the Dutch Parliament and the EU."

"It is crucial to understand what is happening in Brussels for all political parties in the Dutch Parliament, including those that are skeptical about the EU. Whether you like it or not, in the Netherlands we have to deal with what is decided here. If you are against something, it's better to know about it in advance, so that you can jump in quickly and influence the process." 

"My office is in an annex of the European Parliament in Brussels, where there is a representative from each EU member state's national parliament. I cooperate a lot with these people. I also work closely with colleagues in The Hague who are EU advisors to various parliamentary committees in the Lower House. I pay them a monthly visit in The Hague to stay in touch with what is going on there." 

"I have always been interested in the EU. However, I didn't know that this job existed before I worked at the Parliament! Many people don't know about my position either. I work here on my own, along with a trainee that changes every six months. The Dutch Permanent Representation, for example, employs dozens of individuals to work on behalf of Dutch ministries, so this is obviously something different."

"I get many e-mails on a typical working day. With questions from other parliaments or from my colleagues in The Hague, but also newsletters that I use to stay as informed as possible."

"The best part of my job are the working visits with MPs. I've noticed that sometimes the world opens up for MPs if I can get them to speak with the correct equivalents in Brussels. My work then delivers immediate results, which gives a lot of energy!"

Janneke Timmer

"At our theater, we have a lot of European affairs. We are not your normal theater; rather, we are a cultural organization with a high amount of social engagement. We use theatrical methods to collaborate with various theater makers and communities. At a recent event, we wrapped up two European projects that focused on creators with a refugee experience." 

"In 2016 we took part in our first large European project aimed at bridging the gap between art and citizens. We worked on that project with 14 different European countries. This collaboration generated a huge positive impulse. We all operate at a local micro level, but by working together you can transform everything you do locally into universal and apply it on a European level. That's how Northern, Southern and Eastern Europe learn from each other."

"We work with different European grant programs, such as Creative Europe and Erasmus+. If you want to work with such projects, it is important to know where you can bring your value and how you can contribute to an innovation. You need to find core partners who are working on the same themes and see the urgency of the topic you want to work on."

"Traveling to different partners is part of European work. People often assume that those trips are like a holiday celebration. The reality is different; when we travel everyone is working long days. When you meet with your European partners, you want to make the best use of the time you have with each other."

Karolina Spaić  

"The organization that I work for represents the interests of almost all housing associations in the Netherlands. I do that mostly in Brussels at the European Union."

"When it comes to 'housing', the EU has no policy competence on the matter. So, what exactly am I doing there? In practice, we see that a lot of legislation and regulations are emerging in other policy areas that have a big impact on our sector. At the moment, sustainability policy in particular is an important factor. The European Commission has come up with a strategy to make the EU climate neutral by 2050; the European Green Deal. This Green Deal is largely about making the built environment more sustainable. That's where the houses of our corporations come in."

The European professionals