Lilian Madureira Teles

The master’s programme offers an opportunity to take an internship course. What were your thoughts about it? Was it a natural choice for you to do an internship?

Undertaking an internship as part of my Master’s degree was not only a natural choice but also an exciting opportunity for me. I saw it as a chance to gain hands-on experience in the field of Political Science, advance my knowledge of politics, and develop new skills. Before starting the Master’s programme, I had worked for six years in international relations in Brazil, so I was excited to explore a new field in a completely different context. I perceived the internship course as the perfect complement to my studies.

Where did you do your internship? How and why did you chose to do your internship there?

I did my internship at the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), a membership political organization of local and regional governments based in Brussels, Belgium. I came across CEMR’s work when studying feminist theories and the concept of ‘gendered cities’. In my research, I discovered the role CEMR plays in promoting gender equality at the local level through initiatives like the ‘European Charter for the Equality of Women and Men in Local Life’. Looking into their work via their website, I found CEMR's engagement with research and advocacy in gender equality particularly compelling, as it resonated with my academic interest in gender studies. The international and multicultural environment at CEMR also contributed to my decision to apply for an internship there.

What were your work assignments?

Throughout my internship at CEMR, I was primarily involved in research. I contributed to several studies covering various topics, including women's representation and experiences of violence in politics, energy and climate policies and regulations, and the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals. My work assignments included gathering data through desk research, data cleaning and visualisation, conducting analyses, and drafting reports. I also worked with the projects department by organising meetings and training sessions, updating databases, and monitoring EU funding opportunities.

What are your main takeaways and/or lessons from your internship?

The internship at CEMR provided me with a better understanding of the dynamics of European politics, the multiple levels of governance, and the significant role played by local and regional governments. Through my involvement in research, projects, and collaboration with colleagues, I not only acquired new skills but also learned about several interesting topics. This experience also reinforced the importance of proactive engagement in driving meaningful change through politics, such as advocating for a more gender-equal society.

How would you summarize your internship experience in three words?

Challenging, exciting, and rewarding.