HQ Brussels, Belgium
Est. 1958
Staff ~3,000
About Council of the European Union

About Council of the European Union

The Council of the European Union, also known as the Council of Ministers, represents EU member state governments and is a co-legislator of the EU alongside the European Parliament. Based in Brussels, the Council adopts EU laws, coordinates member state policies, develops the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy, and concludes international agreements. The Council's General Secretariat (GSC) provides organizational and administrative support, employing approximately 3,000 staff. The rotating six-month presidency of the Council is held by member states in turn, with each presidency setting priorities and chairing meetings.

Working at Council of the European Union

The Council's General Secretariat employs policy advisors, legal experts, linguists, IT professionals, and administrative staff. Staff work closely with member state delegations and support the rotating presidency. The working environment is highly political and fast-paced, with frequent European Council and ministerial meetings. French and English are the primary working languages, with a strong tradition of French-language working culture. The Secretariat also has a significant linguistic service providing interpretation and translation for Council meetings.

How to Apply

The Council recruits permanent officials through EPSO competitions and also hires temporary agents and contract agents directly. Vacancies are published on the EU Careers portal and on the Council's own recruitment page. Seconded National Expert positions are available for national civil servants. The Council also offers traineeships for recent graduates.

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