Internships – Traineeships at the Council – Belgium

Twice a year, the Council offers 5-month paid traineeships in Brussels. The Consilium traineeship programme offers a first-hand experience of how the Council and the EU work.

They offer young professionals the opportunity to be involved in the Council’s daily activities, learn from their colleagues and advisors, and contribute to shaping important decisions.

The name ‘Consilium’ comes from the Latin word for ‘counsel’ or ‘deliberation’. This captures both the Council’s decision-making role on EU matters and the General Secretariat’s support and advisory functions.

Around 110 traineeship positions are available each year.

This traineeship programme allows you to gain a unique five-month work experience at the heart of EU decision-making and in a diverse environment. As a trainee, you will be able to take part in a wide range of activities, contribute to the Council’s day-to-day work and share the knowledge you have acquired during your studies.

Positive action programme for trainees with disabilities 

Every year, we reserve up to six traineeshipsfor EU nationals with a recognised disability. Our programme offers them a unique insight into EU policy and law-making, whilst providing the support and assistance they might need.

Requirements

They are looking for candidates with diverse backgrounds as they offer traineeships in different areas, such as policy, law, administration, communications, translation or IT.

To apply for a traineeship at the Council, you need to fulfil the following criteria:

Nationality

You need to be an EU citizen.

Education

To apply for the main Consilium traineeship programme, you need to hold a university degree (at bachelor (BA) level or higher) by the closing date for applications at the latest.

If you are applying for the positive action programme for trainees with a disability, you must be at least a third year student of a university or college and have a recognised disability.

Language knowledge

You need to have a very good knowledge of English or French: at least level C1 according to the Common European framework of reference for languages.

You need to have very good knowledge of at least one other EU official language.

Experience

You should not have had previous training (paid or unpaid) or employment for more than six weeks at an EU institution, body, agency or office.

Age

There is no age limit.

Benefits

• Monthly grant of 1.538,16 net.
• Two days of leave per month worked.
• €70 monthly meal allowance
• Travel allowance (depending on the place of recuitment)

Other benefits include:

• accident insurance
• access to health insurance (partial reimbursement)
• option to join the Council gym for €30
• access to all Council library resources and services (eBooks, newspapers, etc.)

Deadline

The second traineeship period runs from 1 September 2026 to 31 January 2027. Applications can be submitted in February and March and the selection of candidates takes place from April to June.

Apply for a Consilium traineeship by 12:00 CET on 19 March 2026

More information: Consilium traineeships