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Brussels Institute for Geopolitics | Essay Prize | Call for Applications

The Partnership

The Brussels Institute for Geopolitics and Charles University Prague are pleased to announce the launch of a new partnership which aims to offer the opportunity for outstanding young professionals to spend time working within the Institute. Participants will be integrated in the Brussels Institute for Geopolitics as research assistants for a duration of six or ten months and will receive a grant covering the duration of their stay. Under the supervision of lead researchers, they will contribute to major projects on a variety of topics – from energy and technology to European history and EU decision-making. Contributing to publications, organising events, participating in high-level meetings, and engaging in all activities related to the daily life of a think tank will provide them with a unique opportunity to enhance their professional skills. As a partnership between the Brussels Institute for Geopolitics and key European academic institutions, this project will immerse participants in a multinational and diverse environment. They will work closely together, forming a tightly-knit and small group of talented individuals. This cultural mix will prepare them well for a career in EU affairs or to work in their national capitals with ‘a sense of Europe’ and a good understanding of geopolitical challenges.

The Essay Prize

The partnership entails a rigorous selection process articulated around an essay competition. One candidate per partner institution will be selected based on the quality of their contribution, taking into account additional elements such as CV and motivation. We invite PhD candidates to submit one essay addressing either of the following questions: - How can the EU better equip itself institutionally during the 2024-2029 cycle to reinforce its geopolitical strategic capacity? Your answer should exclude treaty change. or - Which partners in the ‘Global South’ are the most strategic for the European Union and why? What is the current state of these partnerships and how could they be strengthened with a view to reinforce Europe's relationship with countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America? The essay should be an original piece of writing in English, no more than 2000 words in length. We welcome essays that provide a unique perspective on the chosen topic, supported by strong arguments and evidence. Maps or charts can be used to enhance the analysis and strengthen the arguments. Writing style also enters into consideration. To be eligible for the essay prize competition, the candidate must be currently enrolled as an PhD candidate at Charles University Prague for the 2023-2024 academic year. The essay should 2 be submitted no later than 30 October 2023 at 00h00, and the results will be announced in November. Grantees will be expected to join the institute in the winter 2023-2024.

Application procedure

To submit your essay, please send it as a Word or PDF attachment to and inform your PhD supervisor. In the body of the email, please include your name, the title of your essay, the faculty of your university, a CV and your contact information. We look forward to reading your essays and wish you the best of luck in the competition

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