Εxperiencing the Heart of Europe: My Journey at EYE 2025

On June 13–14, I had the opportunity to participate in the biannual European Youth Event (EYE) in Strasbourg, an inspiring gathering that brought together thousands of young Europeans at the seat of the European Parliament. As a student of International and European Studies, it was a unique experience to not only visit an EU institution for the first time, but also to engage directly in high-level discussions on some of the most pressing challenges facing the EU, right in the heart of European democracy.

What motivated me to apply was the fact that, despite studying the EU for nearly two years, I had never visited any of its institutions in person. EYE offered the perfect chance to connect with peers, meet policymakers and experts, and explore Strasbourg. I experienced the European Parliament in a fun and interactive way, sitting in committee rooms and the hemicycle, exploring kiosks, and enjoying moments of relaxation at the EYE Village.

Beyond being an excellent networking opportunity, what truly stood out was the number of familiar faces I encountered, people I had met through previous youth exchanges, training courses, or my DiscoverEU travels. It felt like a reunion and a reminder of how such programs foster a strong European identity and lasting connections across borders.

I highly recommend applying for EYE 2027. It is beginner-friendly and allows you to choose sessions based on your interests. Personally, I attended workshops on the Common Agricultural Policy, the European Central Bank, EU Foreign Policy, and more. There were also interactive activities, such as translation exercises, quizzes, and the chance to provide feedback on the European Parliament’s website, which I found particularly valuable as a frequent user.

Despite the long journey to Strasbourg by subway, airplane, and bus, the overall experience was incredibly rewarding. Of course, there is still room for improvement. For instance, covering travel costs would help ensure broader participation by young people from all backgrounds. The event could also be made more sustainable by reducing paper waste from flyers and opting for digital alternatives.

Updated on úterý, 17/02/2026