The University of Westminster has hosted the 8th meeting of the European Affairs Society Network together with University College London (UCL) and the EU Delegation to the UK. The meeting brought together over 100 students from European Affairs Societies across the UK, as well as representatives from EU member state embassies, the European Parliament Liaison Office, the National Union of Students, the Erasmus Student Network and the European Young Movement UK.
The Network was established in 2023 and now involves European affairs societies from 33 universities. It engages students in discussions around European affairs through debates, seminars, panel discussions, visits to the EU institutions, think tanks and embassies, film screenings, cultural and social events and much more. It also provides students with the opportunity to make new friendships and grow their professional networks.
At this year’s event students were joined by EU Ambassador to the UK, Pedro Serrano, and Executive-Vice President of the European Commission, Roxana Mînzatu, who talked about the opportunities provided by Erasmus+, and how the UK rejoining the scheme in 2027 is a major step forward for student mobility and cooperation. Executive-Vice President Mînzatu spent time throughout the day engaging with the students, emphasising the importance of having young people involved in the decision-making that will influence their future.
Amber Ella, President of Westminster’s European Affairs Institute, and third-year Psychology BSc Honours student, said: “Having started in this Network as a volunteer, it was incredibly meaningful to return as a co-host and President. To me, this meeting showed not only how much the Network has grown, but also how powerful student-led initiatives can be in creating meaningful dialogue and actively shaping the future of EU–UK relations.”
Magdalena Frennhoff Larsén, Associate Professor in Politics and International Relations, commented: “It was great to see students from across the UK connecting with one another and sharing views and perspectives on European affairs, including the fantastic opportunities offered through Erasmus+. We are very grateful to the EU Delegation for facilitating this initiative.”
Westminster’s participation in the European Affairs Societies Network directly contributes to the United Nations Development Goals (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society. Goals (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about Politics and International Relations courses at the University of Westminster.
Related articles
