European Affairs Societies Network meets at the University of Birmingham

The European Affairs Societies Network was launched at a youth gathering organised by the EU Delegation at University College London  in October 2023. To date, 25 universities have already joined the Network and meet three times per academic year. Each time at a different university and at least once a year outside of London. And on this occasion it was the turn of Birmingham…

Opened by Bonnie Hunt, President of EU Society at the University of Birmingham and Professor Graham Timmins, member of the European Studies Research Group, the day brought together the Network members and observers from another four Universities. The meeting welcomed new members to the Network: SOAS University of London, the University of Kent, and Goldsmiths.
 

Sadiq Rizvi

The day's panel discussion focused on the new stage of EU UK relations and the opportunities it may offer to young people. This lively debate was chaired by  Bonnie Hunt, President of the EU Society at the University of Birmingham  and featured the contributions of Isabell Poppelbaum, Deputy EU Ambassador; Malcolm Harbour CBE, former British Conservative MEP for the West Midlands; Maurizio Cuttin UK Young Ambassador to the European Youth Forum and Victoria Kaye, Student at the University of Birmingham. 

Sadiq Rizvi

The panel covered how in these times of global uncertainty strong EU UK relations are paramount. It was underlined how young people are a key foundation for this relationship and that their voices need to be heard. The audience shared how young people miss the opportunities that previous generations enjoyed and have a strong interest in the opportunities that Erasmus+ and a youth experience scheme could potentially offer. 
 

Sadiq Rizvi

It was raised that disinformation often targets young people and aims to weaken their support to the rule of law and democracy. As expressed during the course of the exchange, it was suggested that the best antidote to any perceived disconnect with youth is to listen to what young people have to say so that policies take into account their needs.    
 

Sadiq Rizvi

Now all eyes turn to City St George, University of London where the 6th European Affairs Network Meeting will take place in June.

For more on the European Societies Network follow our social channels or check in again on the Delegation Website – a new youth portal will be available soon!

Thanks again to the University of Birmingham - it was a great day! 

Sadiq Rizvi