Internship at Latin American Parliament (PARLATINO, Parlamento Latinoamericano)

Latin American Studies, GSIAS

Hyejin Kim

I worked for the Latin American Parliament (PARLATINO, Parlamento Latinoamericano) is located in Panama City from September in 2011 to February in 2012. Through this internship opportunity of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade I had a great experience of international organization during the last six months.

The Latin American Parliament (Parlatino) which provides me a internship, is a regional, permanent organization composed by the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. Currently the institution is being considered to become the legislative organ of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States. At this place, I was an intern at "Education, Technology and Comunication Committee" and I could participate actively in many kinds of work. For example, project research and administrative tasks such as paperwork. Also, I participated in Assembly 2011 (an annual event), and many kinds of Committees discuss about various social problems with representatives of each Latin American countries.

It was not easy to adapt myself to Panama's new life and social environment of Central America. But I could be quick to adjust by many persons' favor including Latin American Parliament (PARLATINO). It was really meaningful and fruitful period for me that I experienced functions of international organization as a student who is majoring in Latin American Politics.

Finally, I'd like to say thanks to all staff of PARLATINO gave me a helping hand during the last 6 months, the Korean Government offered me this great internship opportunity and professors of department of Latin American Studies. Also, if anyone want to get knowledge of international institution I strongly recommend you go this internship. Then maybe you'll get what you want. Thank you.