The date on which the United Kingdom is scheduled to leave the European Union, comes ever closer. While the spotlight is on the internal difficulties the Brits are experiencing in securing a deal, there is no doubt that this is a moment of great change for the EU. But how do you understand all the ins-and-outs and work with Brussels? During the training "Orientation on the EU" we will provide you with the knowledge how the EU functions and how you might successfully influence the playing field in Brussels.   

Invaluable insights and negotiation simulation: Deal or .....? 

During the previous course "Orientation on the EU" civil servants participating in the course expanded on their knowledge of the EU and its legislative process. They also gained insight into how they themselves are able to influence decision making in Brussels, for instance by devising a lobby plan on a theme central to their own work.

Naturally, Brexit was one of the many themes that were discussed during our four-day training programme Orientation on the European Union. Migration was another hot topic. There is a striking difference, though, in how the EU deals with Brexit and how it deals with migration. On Brexit, the EU-27 have acted in remarkable unison, while with migration they so far have been bitterly divided on how to deal with it.

The participants found out for themselves how challenging negotiations between EU member states can be, especially when interests clash and values differ. Taking on the role of EU member states, participants practiced their own negotiation skills in an intense negotiation simulation on an imminent humanitarian and security crisis on the borders of Europe. Eventually, participants reached an agreement that was fully backed by all "member states".

Upcoming course editions

Are you a Dutch civil servant, and do you want to understand all the ins-and-outs of how to work with and in Brussels? Then the training “Orientation on the EU” might just be for you. Feel free to contact us, and join one of the new course editions scheduled to take place in 2019.