In The Kitchen Of Compromise

04.07.2011

BRUSSELS - A fascinating view behind the scenes of the Council of Ministers. Here, the idea of European unity is not at all obvious. Also, when ministers are occupied with national matters, diplomats seem to have a substantial influence in shaping European decisions.

For the first time, a TV-reporter is allowed to make recordings of Belgian diplomats at work. Jonas D'Hollander enters a world where discretion and tact is key. During the 6 months of the Belgian presidency of the EU he witnesses an atmosphere of civilised but determined competition between the European member states. Following 3 diplomats struggling for a deal on a long-time blocked dossier he is able to capture the strategic considerations during the diplomatic preparations at the Belgian Embassy at the EU.

The result, 'In de Keuken van het Compromis' is a fascinating view behind the scenes of the Council of Ministers. Here, the idea of European unity is not at all obvious. Also, when ministers are occupied with national matters, diplomats seem to have a substantial influence in shaping European decisions.