On 16 September, Nela Riehl will gain a comprehensive, hands-on insight into the diverse aspects of museum work in a NEMO Political Internship in Museums. From object handling and loan coordination to engaging with visitors, she will take part in the various efforts and roles that make up museum operations. The experience will offer a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the variety and complexity of work that keeps a museum running.
Nela Riehl is Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) and has been a member of the European Parliament since 2024. Prior to her election, she worked as a schoolteacher. She is part of the Group of the Greens/European Free Alliance and represents the political party Volt Germany.
The BELvue museum in Brussels will be Riehl’s place of work for the day. Located in the heart of Brussels, the BELvue is more than a museum about Belgium and its history. As a centre for democracy, the BELvue wants to develop a historical awareness, encourage critical thinking and offer a place to experience history and democracy.
Launched in 2018, NEMO’s internship programme aims to provide EU policy makers with a greater understanding of museum work by showcasing museums’ imperative value for society. MEP Nela Riehl will be the fifth EU politician to complete a NEMO Political Internship. Previously, Sabine Verheyen, at the time chair of the CULT committee, Mariya Gabriel, at the time European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Luca Jahier, at the time President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), and Julie Ward, at the time MEP and member of the CULT committee, have participated in the museum advocacy initiative.
More about Nela Riehl
On the website of Volt Germany, Nela Riehl shares that she brings a personal perspective to European politics, seeing as she is born and raised in Hamburg in a working-class family with roots in both Germany and Ghana. Having grown up experiencing the realities of border controls within Europe, she is well aware that only a united Europe is our future.
Knowing that democracy thrives on representation, Riehl made the conscious decision to reorganise her life in order to actively contribute to reshaping the political landscape. In a time when illiberal trends are gaining traction across Europe and beyond, Riehl stands firmly for a Europe that draws strength from its diversity.
She advocates for a democratic, climate-neutral, innovative, and just future. She stands firm in the conviction that only through inclusive representation and a diversity of perspectives can democracy be preserved and strengthened.
More about BELvue Museum
The BELvue Museum in Brussels offers a modern, interactive exploration of Belgium’s history and society, using thematic displays to engage visitors with key topics such as democracy, prosperity, solidarity, migration, and Europe. Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, the museum connects the past with current events to deepen understanding of Belgian identity and values.
With a unique blend of audiovisual storytelling and over 200 historical objects, BELvue brings Belgium’s heritage to life. Beyond exhibitions, the museum serves as a dynamic space for dialogue on democracy and civic engagement. Its educational program, developed by teachers and specialists, offers inclusive, accessible activities for schools, families, youth groups, and the wider public to ensure that learning is engaging and available to all.
The BELvue is managed by the King Baudouin Foundation.
