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Master 1 International Relations students dive into the heart of institutional Europe
This educational trip, organized each year in preparation for lessons on European themes, aimed to offer a concrete understanding of the workings of the European Union, but also to exchange views with industry professionals. As soon as they arrived in Brussels, the students embarked on a busy and, above all, rewarding program. The first stage took them to the European Commission's Charlemagne building for a program of tailor-made conferences highlighting the major missions of the European executive. After a short lunch break, the group continued their exploration of the institutions with a visit to the hemicycle of the European Parliament. This sequence was marked by a reminder of the Parliament's legislative role and its interactions with other EU bodies. Discussions with the tour guide from the press relations department provided an opportunity to revisit the contemporary challenges of European democratic debate and the role of the 24 official languages represented in the Parliament.
"A rewarding and inspiring insight into the European institutions".
sums up Claire Mayor.
In the late afternoon, the students were warmly welcomed to the French Permanent Representation to the European Union. This meeting with French diplomats gave rise to lively exchanges on the priorities of French diplomacy in Brussels, intergovernmental coordination mechanisms and life as a diplomat.
"A trip rich in encounters that were decisive for our professional project".
points out Aïssata Gueye, who is discovering new perspectives.
Tuesday March 4 began with a series of presentations at UCLouvain Saint-Louis Bruxelles organized in partnership with Denis Duez, professor of political science and former director of UCLouvain's Institute of European Studies. Three organizations involved in peace and security shared their work: GRIP (Groupe de Recherche et d'Information sur la Paix et la Sécurité), IRSEM-Europe (Institut de Recherche Stratégique de l'École Militaire) and MAG (Mines Advisory Group). These speeches launched rich discussions on contemporary geopolitical issues, defense policies and humanitarian action.
The trip concluded around an Alumni lunch in partnership with AAÉALO (Association des Anciens Élèves et Amis des Langues Orientales), which gave students the opportunity for informal exchanges with former graduates. A convivial and inspiring moment that encouraged the sharing of experience on post-master's courses and professional opportunities.
"I want to work in the European institutions even more".
confided Pauline Jamin at the end of the two days.
Article by Jean-Baptiste SHANGWE SEBAZUNGU, Master 1 International Relations student.
