Study Trip to Brussels - Part 1
Arrival in Brussels – The Beginning of an Insightful Week
On Sunday, March 30, 2025, a group of students from various study programs – primarily European Studies and Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) – set off on their study trip to Brussels, the political heart of the European Union. The group met early in the morning at Magdeburg Central Station and departed at 8:00 AM. Despite several train transfers, the journey went smoothly, and the group arrived punctually in Brussels, welcomed by sunshine as we made our way to the hotel.
There, we were warmly received by Frank Leeb from the Landeszentrale für politische Bildung, Julia Czesinkaya and her intern Jette from GOEUROPE!, as well as Alba Kugelmeier López and Johannes Bartelt, who would accompany the group throughout the program.
During a brief introduction, the students received an overview of Belgium’s historical background and gained insights into some of the country’s current political and social characteristics.
Afterwards, participants had the opportunity to join a private city tour of Brussels and end the day with a communal dinner. However, many chose instead to explore the city on their own or gather in their expert groups to prepare for the upcoming program highlights.
The first day concluded with many new impressions and a growing sense of anticipation for what the following days would bring.
Day 2 – Firsthand Insights: Regional Representations and the Council of the EU
Our second day in Brussels began with a generous and varied breakfast, kindly sponsored and much appreciated by everyone. Well-fueled, we made our way to our first official appointment at the Representation of the State of Saxony-Anhalt to the European Union.
The morning held a bit of suspense, as Brussels had announced a metro strike, though, unlike in Germany, essential lines (including ours) continued to run every 5 to 10 minutes. As a result, we arrived well ahead of schedule, which gave us time to enjoy a coffee and finalise preparations for our expert discussions.
At the Representation, we were warmly welcomed by Helene-Olesja Betuch, who spent about an hour answering our questions and offering valuable insights into the working structure and focus areas of the office. A present intern also shared her perspective on what it’s like to live and work in Brussels as a young professional.
A short walk later, Sabine Overkämping, Head of the Länder Observer Office to the EU, received us. She greeted each student personally, asking about their hometown and bachelor’s background. In a candid and inspiring conversation, she spoke about her career path, deeply rooted in political engagement. Today, she works in a non-partisan, analytical role, assessing EU reports—something that initially felt unusual to many of us, as our studies often emphasise policy critique and active shaping rather than detached analysis.
After these rich exchanges, it was time for a well-deserved lunch break, which students used variously to take photos, sample Belgian treats, or relax in the sun before the afternoon session.
At 3:00 PM, we met for our final appointment of the day: a visit to the Council of the European Union. In the interactive visitor centre, we explored the Council’s functions, followed by an open Q&A session with a staff member and an intern. While the prepared expert group opened the conversation, it quickly evolved into a lively group discussion, which continued until the session ended. As always, the visit concluded with a group photo—a fitting way to round off an informative and energising day.
Our centrally located accommodation made it easy for everyone to enjoy their evening: some tried Belgian street food, others headed to restaurants, and, as some say, a few even ventured into the vibrant streets around Delirium for the full Brussels experience.
More impressions and reflections from the following days will be shared soon!