Jakarta, February 2025 – Muhammad Bashara Hadid, an undergraduate student of Government Science at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro (class of 2021), was selected as one of the trainees in the Compulsory Traineeship Program at the Delegation of the European Union to Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam, specifically in the Political, Press, and Information Section.

For Bashara, this opportunity was far from expected. “As a Government Science student, I never imagined I would intern at a diplomatic institution and be involved in diplomatic activities, especially considering the program’s academic focus on domestic politics,” he shared. However, it was precisely this academic background that became a strength during his time at the Delegation.

According to Bashara, the EU Delegation often seeks contextual input regarding Indonesia’s political landscape and public policy developments. “I’m grateful to be able to contribute in that area. My academic knowledge of domestic politics has become a valuable asset at the diplomatic table,” he added.

Throughout his internship, Bashara experienced a professional environment characterized by inclusivity, equality, and collaboration. Despite being an intern, he was directly involved in high-level diplomatic activities, including sitting at the same table as representatives from other European embassies. “The work culture here is remarkably open. I learned a valuable principle that I now carry with me: I say what I will do, I do what I say, and I report what I do. It taught me the importance of integrity and accountability in the diplomatic profession,” he explained.

Even within his first week, Bashara took part in numerous strategic tasks, including producing daily media reviews on Indonesian political developments, attending meetings, drafting minutes, and assisting with political research. He also learned to craft concise and effective briefing notes, a crucial skill in the field of diplomacy.

One of the most memorable experiences for him was attending a closed-door discussion with representatives from various European countries. “It was eye-opening to observe firsthand how diplomatic negotiation takes place and how each country brings different priorities and approaches to international cooperation,” he said.

Bashara also gained meaningful insight from working directly under Stéphane Mechati, Deputy Head of the Delegation. “He has always been open to discussion and provided invaluable perspectives on core principles of diplomacy, as well as the real challenges faced in bilateral and multilateral relations,” Bashara noted.

Reflecting on his experience, Bashara emphasized how the internship has been a pivotal step in his personal and professional growth. “I feel more confident in exploring the world of diplomacy and understanding how international policy decisions impact domestic governance. This internship has broadened my horizons and shown me potential career paths I had never considered before,” he said.

Bashara’s participation in the EU Delegation’s internship program reflects the growing international engagement opportunities provided by the Department of Government Science at FISIP Undip. It affirms the department’s commitment to preparing students not only for academic excellence but also for global competitiveness. His experience demonstrates that the skills and perspectives gained from studying domestic political systems are not only relevant but crucial in navigating international diplomacy.