Study Trip to Brussels - Part 2
Days of Dialogue, Insight, and Outlooks: Part 2 of the Study Trip to Brussels
Our second morning in the Belgian capital began once again with a hearty breakfast, followed by a metro ride to the European Quarter. The Schuman station soon became our familiar starting point for visits to various European institutions.
One of the most intensive and enlightening sessions awaited us in the European Commission. We were welcomed by two staff members, one of whom was a participant in the prestigious Blue Book Traineeship. They shared insights into the Commission’s working structures, its diverse international team, and its key areas of responsibility. The discussion was not only informative but also refreshingly open and engaging, lasting nearly two hours before we took a well-earned coffee break.
Afterwards, we continued with an expert talk led by Daniel Woehl, Head of Unit D.5 (responsible for Finland, Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania) at the Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion (DG EMPL). The conversation, guided by our prepared expert group, focused on EU-level social policy topics and sparked a lively exchange of ideas.
The extended three-hour lunch break that followed gave students time to explore independently, whether enjoying Belgian specialities in the sun, visiting sights, or simply relaxing in one of the city's many parks.
In the late afternoon, we visited the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW), where we were welcomed by Carmen Descamps, Head of EU Energy and Digital Policy. Her talk offered fascinating insights into the often-overlooked world of lobbying and interest representation in Brussels, providing new perspectives for many of us.
The final evening was spent in a relaxed atmosphere: with souvenirs and sweet treats in hand, many enjoyed the sunset from the rooftop of the Old Stock Exchange, taking in a panoramic view of the Brussels skyline. A special moment was the visit from a Bachelor’s student in European Studies, currently completing an internship at the European Parliament, who joined the group, building a nice bridge between programs and academic phases, and offering a preview of the day ahead.
On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, a sense of departure was already in the air at breakfast, though the selection was just as rich as on the previous days. After packing and safely storing our luggage at the hotel, we headed off one last time toward the European institutions.
Our destination was the European Parliament, which was impressive with its architecture alone. In the interactive visitor area, we received an introduction to the political groups and the parliamentary system. Although most Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) were in Strasbourg for a voting session, we were able to follow the debates via live stream. A tour of the Hemicycle, the main plenary chamber, rounded out the visit and allowed for plenty of photo opportunities.
Following a final lunch break—already tinged with a hint of farewell—Frank Leeb from the State Agency for Civic Education in Saxony-Anhalt and Jette, an intern with GOEUROPE!, departed for their return journey to Halle. The rest of the group continued to the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)—an institution that receives less attention but plays a crucial role in connecting civil society, employers, and trade unions within the EU framework.
Despite the full schedule and the volume of new impressions, the speaker's engaging and accessible style captured everyone’s attention—an open discussion followed on the function of advisory bodies and participatory governance within EU institutions.
With a final glance over the Brussels cityscape, we returned to the hotel, retrieved our luggage, and made our way to the train station. The return journey went surprisingly smoothly—all trains were on time. The hours were filled with sharing street art photos, reflecting on the experience, discussing career plans, and strengthening new friendships. There was laughter, connection, and even the first ideas for future reunions.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who helped make this journey possible.
Brussels – until next time!
