The "EU bubble" offers an array of meaningful, impactful careers. EU careers, including public affairs roles, consistently operate at the forefront of technology and societal evolution. This article will focus on careers within EU institutions, particularly at European agencies.
Democracy operates as a natural check on hasty or harmful ideas, allowing good ideas to move forward slowly and thoughtfully. Rapid change is often associated with authoritarian regimes. In the EU, positions across its institutions reflect this cautious but progressive approach.
One of the most engaging roles in the European Parliament (EP) is that of an Accredited Parliamentary Assistant (APA). A close friend of mine, an APA, finds immense satisfaction in the work. APAs work with both civil servants and political appointees, often balancing administrative tasks with high-level responsibilities like drafting speeches and developing strategies (for example, advocating for Romania’s accession to Schengen).
APAs frequently interact with EU public affairs professionals, often the primary point of contact for lobbyists. Observing parliament can feel a bit like a theater production, with each parliamentarian following the cues of the party whip. When the whip signals, the entire group moves in unison, adding to the dynamic, almost performative, environment of the EP.
The European Commission holds substantial influence over EU policy, where policy officers often shape the legislation process. Policy officers not only initiate regulatory proposals but frequently draft key parts of legislation that move to other EU institutions for further debate and approval.
A friend of mine who worked on digital market regulations spent over 14-hour days knowing his work directly influenced the future of digital interoperability. For instance, policies he helped shape could prevent companies like Apple from restricting the use of competing services (like Chrome or Google Maps on iPhones), ultimately benefiting consumers by providing more choice and promoting fair competition.
Working at the Council of the EU is often a more discreet career path. Many Permanent Representatives (Perm Reps) are highly skilled diplomats or advisors who rarely disclose specifics of their work, typically describing it only as "working for the EU institutions." Among EU careers, Perm Rep roles are among the most prestigious, featuring unique roles with historical names like Mertens Coordinator or Antici.
Perm Reps approach public affairs professionals with caution, given their role frequently overlaps with lobbying efforts in the Parliament and the Commission. This dual role allows Perm Reps to influence key decisions, providing a direct line to ministers, which lobbyists would otherwise find challenging to reach.
Among EU careers, Perm Rep and public affairs roles are among the most engaging. Many lobbyists in EU public affairs enjoy the flexibility, frequent interactions with key figures, and, of course, the chance to casually walk through the European Parliament for coffee or lunch.
An often-overlooked EU institution, the Single Resolution Board (SRB), functions like the EU’s version of the FDIC, safeguarding citizens' bank deposits. Though less known, the SRB plays a crucial role in European stability, ensuring that even in a bank collapse, individuals are protected (up to around €200,000). This agency manages common debt funds, acting for the common good much like the European Central Bank but without widespread recognition.
The SRB may seem remote, but it’s one of the EU’s most forward-thinking institutions, supporting financial resilience across Europe. It exemplifies the unseen, often underappreciated work done by EU agencies to protect and advance the Union’s collective stability and welfare.
In conclusion, EU institutions offer some of the most diverse, impactful roles available in public service today. Whether working on legislation in the Commission, supporting parliamentarians, or ensuring financial safety in the SRB, each role contributes uniquely to the European Union’s complex and dynamic governance system.
