BPC welcomes three foreign interns in 2025
In January 2025, BPC will welcome three foreign interns who will work with our research centers during the first semester. They are: Matteo Minola from Università degli Studi di Milano (Italy), Juan Patiño, who is Colombian and is studying for his master’s degree at Sorbonne Université (France), and Ashkhen Gevorgyan from the Institute of Oriental Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia. Matteo and Juan will work on projects of the Socio-Environmental Platform, coordinated by professors Maureen Santos and Paula Sandrin. Ashken Gevorgyan is collaborating with The Economy of South-South Politics and is being advised by professor Ana Garcia.
Check out their expectations and considerations about our voluntary internship program below:
1. Why did you choose to do the internship at BPC? How does it add to your academic career? (Matteo)
“I chose to do my internship at the BRICS Policy Center (BPC) because of my master’s thesis project. During my time at the BPC, I am developing my dissertation, which focuses on relations between the European Union and Brazil, with an emphasis on the trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur. Collaborating with the BPC gives me the opportunity to come into contact with a different perspective from the European one, allowing me to deepen the Brazilian and Mercosur perspectives on international relations and geopolitics. This internship is enriching my knowledge about the countries of the Global South and the Brazilian reality, in addition to offering me the opportunity to learn Portuguese, thus expanding my linguistic and intercultural skills.”
2. What are the topics of your research? (Ashkhen)
“During this period, my research will focus on the theme “Iran in BRICS: (From mutual interest to new regional perspectives). This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the internal and external factors that contributed to Iran’s membership in BRICS, as well as its evolving role within the organization. As I mentioned earlier, by assessing Iran’s involvement in BRICS and its collaboration with member states, the study will explore potential opportunities and challenges for Armenia in areas such as trade, infrastructure, and diplomatic relations as well. In addition, the research will seek to understand how BRICS policies and initiatives can influence regional dynamics, including economic integration, connectivity projects, and multilateral cooperation. This work will contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of BRICS in shaping global governance and the strategic positioning of Iran and Armenia within this framework.”
3. What are your main research activities during your time at BPC? (Juan)
“I am part of the Socio-Environmental Platform, where I have the opportunity to collaborate on different research fronts. I currently contribute to the Global South Climate Observatory and the Socio-Environmental Radar, in addition to regularly publishing on social media about the BRICS partner countries. My involvement in these activities has been enriching, as it allows me to explore topics that I consider essential, such as the intersections between climate change, sustainable development and international policies. The Platform space allows me to broaden my understanding of the socio-environmental challenges faced by the countries of the bloc, as well as the global environmental agenda.”