Those beginnings, grounded in tradition yet open to the world, were followed by studies in economics, a field that, as she explains, “accompanied me throughout my career and helped me navigate the realities of international work.”

After university, she entered one of Austria’s large export-oriented companies, but soon found herself drawn to diplomacy. “From there on, I joined the Foreign Service, which brought me to different parts of the world working at Austrian embassies,” she recalls. Each posting broadened her horizons, reinforcing her belief in dialogue, cooperation, and multicultural understanding.
Brigitte’s life took a decisive turn in 1989, when she arrived in Brussels to work at Austria’s Permanent Representation. It was a historic moment. “Our Minister of Foreign Affairs handed over our acquis, the wish of a country to join the EU,” she says. The negotiations that followed lasted seven years and, during that time, all rotations in the Foreign Service were suspended. “Adhesion became our most important political issue, and all members of the Representation had to stay until the accession negotiations were concluded.” These were intense, formative years, professionally and personally. Brussels became not only her workplace, but also the place where she met her future husband.

Once Austria joined the EU and diplomatic rotations resumed, she was expected to move on to her next posting. But life had other plans. “We wanted to start a life together,” she explains simply. Instead of leaving Brussels, she sat the highly competitive European Commission entrance exam–a year-long endeavour requiring discipline and unwavering determination. “After the successful completion, I left the Foreign Service to join the Commission at DG ECHO, the fire brigade service for catastrophes. I worked there in Finance and found it very meaningful.”

Brigitte’s commitment to service did not fade, not even after retirement, it only shifted. “I was asked by my Austrian friends and colleagues to join the Austrian group of Femmes d’Europe,” she says. Her years in countries affected by humanitarian crises, followed by her work at ECHO, made the decision easy. “It was very natural to continue this way also after my active life.”

What motivates her to volunteer ? She lets out a soft laugh, as if the answer is self-evident. Helping, connecting, contributing—these are not duties for her, but sources of joy. She finds particular fulfilment in Femmes d’Europe. “I am very much attracted to the women’s community and friendship,” Brigitte explains. “The work and events we do together and the warm atmosphere which prevails in our group” : all of it gives her energy and purpose.

Asked what makes Femmes d’Europe unique, she answers with clarity, “The fact that we are a multicultural community.” For someone who spent her life in international environments, this resonates deeply. Interaction with members from many nationalities comes naturally to her. “Easy to connect and interesting,” she says, effortlessly summing up what many feel yet struggle to articulate.

Brussels remains the city of her heart, not only because it is where her life changed, but because of the rhythm it offers. “The intense life, so many different cultural, political and scientific events” : this dynamism continues to energise her. Belgium’s openness and diversity mirror the values she embraced throughout her career.

Her favourite restaurant and film ? She prefers not to commit, keeping an open, curious spirit. What matters to her is discovery, the pleasure of trying new things, the unexpected delight of the next experience.

And where does all her vitality come from ? Brigitte responds without hesitation : “Was born with it.” It is a simple phrase, yet it captures something essential about her—an inner drive, a natural enthusiasm, a lifetime of stepping forward.

Finally, when asked about her motto, she shares it with a spark in her eyes : “Don’t take NO for an answer.” It is not merely a phrase, but the thread that has woven through her entire life, from Vienna to the world, from diplomacy to humanitarian work, from a long international career to volunteering with heart and purpose.

Brigitte Haus embodies dedication, resilience, and the quiet strength of a woman who has served, adapted, contributed, and remained deeply connected to the communities around her. Her story is a reminder that home is not just a place, but a journey shaped by choices, friendships, and the courage to say yes, even when the world says no.

Alexandra Paucescu,
Communications Committee