Ivan Kahmann – On November 9, during the propaedeutic diploma award ceremony, two presentations were given about urban policies in the EU.

Martin Grisel talked about the different governance networks of the European Union, carefully explaining how different political layers interact with one another. Martin gave a brief introduction into the history of the EU from a policymaking perspective – a topic that is not often shed light on. He then shared his experience of working as a director at EUKN (European Urban Knowledge Network) and gave some interesting insights about their collaboration with projects like The New Urban Agenda. The presentation helped students to understand how the European Union functions internally and how it affects the urban areas of its member states – how interurban interaction may take place and how it can play a fundamental role in the implementation of EU policies.

 

Dr. Elena Bondarouk focused on a more hands-on approach. She looked specifically at local urban governments and explained their role in the EU. Her presentation gave an in-depth look at environmental policies in particular, which allowed the audience to think of the possible applications of the theoretical knowledge that was presented by Martin Grisel in the first presentation.

However, with the end of the second presentation, the discussion around EU policies and their implementation did not stop. After both talks, students asked provocative questions, challenging the theories and examples given by the speakers. After the formal Q&A part ended, students and professors were invited to take a drink and continue the discussion in a less formal environment. Many different topics were raised, including relevant issues surrounding the EU. Tuesday’s meeting offered a great opportunity to exchange ideas with professionals who focus on the European Union in their research, and to engage in extremely relevant political debate. Several discussions continued even after the event officially came to an end, as everyone wanted to share their vision, as well as learn from the others’ perspectives.

Overall, this event offered a great opportunity for students to look at policymaking from a different perspective, exchange ideas with professional researchers and policymakers, and, perhaps, question their own ideas and beliefs.

We certainly hope (and believe) that ASTUS and Leiden University will continue to organize similar events and to invite scholars to share their views on existing urban issues with our students.