An academic field trip to Brussels is on the program for International Relations and Urban Policy students in the fourth semester. Ten students from Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Austria visited various EU institutions and organizations at the beginning of April to gain insights.
Educational trip to Brussels: a deep dive into the dynamics of the EU
Accompanied by the Head of Program Johannes Maerk and Hessam Habibi Doroh, active in the coordination of the study program, the group completed a varied program with many highlights, including a
- Workshop at the Permanent Representation of Austria to the European Union: In a session with Elisabeth Szeli, MA, from Austria's "EU Embassy", the group discussed the role of the EU in managing international conflicts and its strategic engagement in Eurasia.
- At the House of European History, the students explored the rich history of Europe and discussed future challenges and opportunities for Europe.
- Prague House - Delegation of the Czech capital to the EU: Lenka Kolářová Bernklauová (Representative of the City of Prague to the European Union) and Master's student, organized the meeting with the representatives of the City of Prague, which provided insights into Prague's urban policy and activities in Brussels.
- Vienna House - Liaison Office of the City of Vienna in Brussels: The head of the Brussels office of the City of Vienna, Michaela Kauer, gave an insightful presentation on the importance of social housing and the broad cooperation with other cities in Brussels. Many thanks to Ronny Natusch, Administration and Public Relations Manager, for his organizational support in planning this visit!
- Royal Museum for Central Africa: This museum exhibits unique collections, making it a center of knowledge and resources about Africa, especially Central Africa, in a historical and global context. It is a place of remembrance of the colonial past and strives to be a dynamic platform for exchange and dialogue.
- EU Parliament: Students discussed critical issues such as climate change, the future of democracy and the current situation in Gaza with Andreas Schieder, Member of the European Parliament.
Visiting these various institutions provided students with a unique educational experience that enhanced their understanding of European politics and its impact on local and global affairs.
Head of Program Johannes Maerk: "Every aspect of this trip was a learning opportunity and prepares our students to become informed and effective contributors in the field of international relations and urban policy. Many thanks to all the hosts and organizers who made this trip a unique educational journey. Thanks also to the International Office of FH Campus Wien for supporting this trip with a grant.
All information on the content of the program can be found here
