Caroline Emma Troen

Internship in South Africa

“As a political trainee at the Embassy of Denmark in South Africa I have worked closely with the Embassy’s mini-grant scheme – a scheme which provides financial support to various organizations and institutions within the thematic areas of Peace, Security and Human Rights. I have collaborated with governmental bodies, such as the Department of Women, research institutions, as well as local NGO’s to promote the rights of women, specifically by addressing gender-based violence. The Embassy has, for example, supported the NGO Sonke Gender Justice and their “A Safe Ride!” campaign. The campaign aimed to respond and prevent the abuse many women and girls experience when using the taxi services in South Africa.

I am particularly passionate about the promotion of human rights, specifically the rights of women. The internship has granted me the opportunity to explore current human rights issues, including the socio-political contexts surrounding these issues. Moreover, I have gained valuable insights into the Danish Foreign Service as well as the ever-changing political landscape of South Africa.”