In celebration of Europe Day, the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina invited high school students to step into the roles of EU leaders, diplomats, representatives of EU member states and candidate countries, activists, and journalists as part of a unique interactive simulation exploring the different aspects of accession process. This dynamic workshop, held today at Europe House, offered a new and different platform for youth to learn about the complexities of EU enlargement, policy negotiation and decision-making through active debate and teamwork. 

Ambassador Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative to Bosnia and Herzegovina joined the students and spoke with them about their experience of the workshop. “Young people are not bystanders in the EU accession process. They are already shaping the conversation, and their voices will shape the future. It was a real pleasure to meet young people today who are curious, active and engaged in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s steps towards EU membership and speak with them about issues that matter for their future,” underlined the Ambassador.

The workshop gave participants a chance to simulate the real-world challenges and opportunities of EU membership. Through collaborative sessions and moderated negotiations, participants engaged in realistic discussions about democratic reforms, human rights, economic integration, and the rule of law—core themes central to the EU accession journey. The students demonstrated impressive levels of diplomacy, public speaking skills, critical thinking as well as mutual respect and understanding in overcoming differences - highlighting the power of youth to contribute meaningfully to political discourse and be drivers of change and progress in the EU integration.

The workshop was the first of four planned as part of Europe Day activities. In the upcoming period, students from Mostar, Tuzla and Banja Luka will also take part in this initiative, encouraging the youth to articulate their hopes for the future of Europe, especially in the context of current global challenges. 

Europe Day activities are taking place across Bosnia and Herzegovina, engaging partners, organisations, citizens with youth-focused and other activities in celebration of joint values, aspirations and beliefs. Celebration of Europe Day is a powerful reminder of the founding principles and values of the European Union including stability, prosperity and unity across Europe.