Bernard Philips is a seconded international expert from Belgium and joined EUAM Iraq as Human Rights Adviser.

Briefly describe your career and tell us why you applied for a position with EUAM Iraq?

I have a background in law with additional specialisations in international public law and international human rights. For most of my career, I have been working for non-governmental or international organisations in the field of human rights and support to local institutions. Before joining EUAM Iraq, I worked for the EU Missions in Sahel (EUCAP Sahel), initially in Niger and then in Mali, as human rights adviser within the training unit. Before joining the EU family, I worked several years for the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, firstly in DR Congo, where I spent many years in various capacities, and then in Liberia. I also worked for the OSCE-Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine as monitoring officer in conflict affected areas. After spending close to 15 years in Africa, I thought it was time to take on new challenges in another part of the world. I was thrilled when I learned that I would come to Iraq and to the Middle East, the region is completely new for me.

Tell us about your daily work?

Typically, I will start my working day by reviewing Iraqi newspapers to keep abreast of human rights developments in the country and to some extend in the region. The rest of the day will be dedicated to preparing working visits to Iraqi counterparts within national institutions to discuss human rights related challenges and to identify how EUAM Iraq can support their activities. I also dedicate some time to design and develop training material for workshops for the benefit of Iraqi officials of the security sector and regularly meet with international partners to identify possible synergies and joint activities. 

How do you find working with colleagues from many different backgrounds?

Working with colleagues from different backgrounds and nationalities is the essence of EU Missions deployed around the world. It is definitively an enriching experience. The variety of cultural background offers more creative solutions and innovations, as each person brings their own professional experiences and knowledge to the table. It is also sometimes challenging as there may be conflicting work styles or approaches to problem-solving which often requires patience and flexibility. 

What has been the most rewarding or memorable experience for you on the Mission so far?

I joined the Mission here in Iraq only about two months ago and I still have a lot to discover about the country, it’s fascinating history and culture and its inhabitants. I’m absolutely convinced that I will enjoy my time in Iraq.

If you could live anywhere, where would you choose?

I am seriously considering moving and settle down somewhere in Southeast Asia, probably an island in Indonesia, where I could enjoy long walks on white sand beaches, dive on coral reefs and witness spectacular sunsets. I have already spent many years in this part of the world, and I enjoy it very much.

What is something your colleagues don’t know about you?

I am a scuba diver enthusiast. Scuba diving offers me unique opportunities to relax and to connect with nature. The underwater world is a place of beauty, wonder, and mystery. It is a world where you can come face to face with creatures that seem otherworldly, where you can float weightlessly among coral gardens or explore ancient shipwrecks. Unfortunately, I witnessed that itis a world also extremely vulnerable due to human activities and massive plastic pollution.

What is your usual order at a restaurant?  

It mainly depends on where I am located. I am a fan of the so-called world cuisine, especially street food which is a delightful way to explore local flavors and immerse yourself in a country’s culinary culture. Mediterranean, Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine are my top 3 favorites. I am excited to discover Iraq’s food which, I have been told, is amazing.

How do you relax? 

Mainly by reading, strolling around, practicing yoga or playing frisbee with my colleagues. I usually prefer outdoors activities rather than watching TV series or movies since I already spend lot of time behind a computer screen.