Aktuality

Brussels Institute for Geopolitics | Essay Prize | Call for Applications

• The Partnership

The Brussels Institute for Geopolitics and Charles University in Prague are pleased to announce

the opportunity for outstanding young professionals to spend time working within the Brussels

Institute for Geopolitics as part of the 2024 Essay Prize scholarship.

Participants will receive a scholarship grant covering the duration of their stay and will be

integrated in the Brussels Institute for Geopolitics as research assistants for a duration of six

(10.000 euros) or ten (15.000 euros) months. Under the supervision of lead researchers, they will

contribute to major research projects on a variety of topics – from energy and technology to

European history and EU decision-making, and from information warfare to geoeconomics and

more. 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.

This joint project between Charles University in Prague and the Brussels Institute for Geopolitics

immerses participants in a multinational and diverse environment. They work closely together,

forming a tightly-knit and small group of talented individuals. This cultural mix prepares 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 cooperation entails a rigorous selection process articulated around an essay competition.

One candidate per institution will be selected based on the quality of their contribution, taking into

account additional elements such as CV and motivation letter.

We invite PhD candidates to submit their essay addressing either of the following questions:

- Discuss the potential implications of the 2024 US presidential election on the European

Union’s geopolitical stance and assess to what extent the EU has prepared itself for

different scenarios.

- In light of global economic interdependence and the rise of geopolitical tensions, discuss

the main principles that should underpin a comprehensive European economic security

strategy. Consider how European capitals can better coordinate among one another, as

well as with EU institutions, in areas such as supply chain resilience, critical

infrastructures, trade relations, and industrial policy.

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 a PhD

candidate at Charles University in Prague. The essay should be submitted no later than 27

October 2024 at 23h59. Grantees will be expected to join the institute in the winter of the

academic year 2024-2025.

• Application procedure

To submit your essay, please send it as a Word or PDF attachment to radek.cajka@ruk.cuni.cz

and inform your 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 are committed to

enhancing gender diversity and encourage women to apply.

We look forward to reading your essays and wish you the best of luck in the competition.

• Testimonials

“My stay at the Brussels Institute was nothing short of an exceptional experience. Taking part in

its activities provided me with an insider’s perspective on the complex daily life of a think tank at

the heart of European politics.”

Fábio Colombo, School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Lisbon, recipient of the

2023 BIG Essay competition

“The fellowship complemented my academic experiences with more practical and empirical

ones. During my stay, I had the privilege of actively contributing to the research and publication

activities of the institute which works as an unique intersection between EU politics, geopolitics

and the business world. Above all, I made strong personal connections in Brussels which will

endure beyond my stay. ”

Matěj Prášil, Institute of Political Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University,

recipient of the 2023 BIG Essay competition