Voices from Abroad: Elena Claudia Di Vito

Paris (France), Embassy Program, Italian Delegation to the OECD – Paris

From the outside, the OECD looks like a grey laboratory having the sole aim of producing an increasing number of statistics. Instead, I would describe it as a continuous and mutual learning process bringing together the experiences of different countries that share the common aim of promoting a 'stronger, cleaner and fairer economy'. Indeed, it is only when you have the chance to get there that you realize the amazing complexity of the work that is done everyday by the committees where delegations from the 31 member States meet to deal with issues ranging from development to environment, from macroeconomics to fiscal affairs. It will not be uncommon to meet representatives of the World Bank, the IMF or other international organizations as well as development countries strictly cooperating with the OECD. Working at the Italian Delegation to the OECD you will be participating in meetings at the OECD headquarters, feeling the great emotion of sitting behind the Italian flag while chatting with Japan on your right side and Iceland on your left! The Delegation, currently led by Ambassador Armellini, benefits from the expertise and the close cooperation between the diplomatic staff and the experts coming from different Ministries. Hence, beyond the attractiveness of participating in the OECD work and getting deep insight on current economic themes, you will also have the chance to experience how diplomatic relations work. I know many of you have have never thought about becoming a diplomat and feel sure about your willingness to become an economist or an investment banker but I strongly suggest students come here leaving the door open for all the input you will receive. The opportunities to meet people from the OECD Directorates, from the delegations of other countries or from Ministries will be one of the greatest advantages of this overall fantastic experience. Moreover, you will be working in an international environment, meeting other young trainees during formal meetings as well as during ad hoc social events – the OECD Social Sneakers. Do you still need a reason to apply for this experience? Well, I have forgotten to tell you that the Italian Delegation to the OECD is in the ville lumière...So, bonne chance!