Future of Europe: Graduates demand more commitment and solidarity!

Future of Europe: Graduates demand more commitment and solidarity!

On June 5, 2025, over 60 graduates of the Master's program in European Studies gathered in the Schöneberg town hall. This place is not only historically significant, known for John F. Kennedy's famous statement "I am a Berliner", but also offers the ideal setting for an exchange on European issues. [europa-uni.de] reports that the graduates strongly identify with the motto “I am European” and share an enthusiasm for Europe.

The participants come from different areas and bring a variety of perspectives. The invitation to this meeting was given by Prof. Dr. Timm Beichelt, who, as the long-time course director, plays a central role in the success of the program. In his opening speech, Beichelt recalled the beginnings of the course, which was founded in the late 1990s.

Panel discussion about Europe

Another highlight of the event was a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Linn Selle, with four graduates sharing their views on the question “What Europe for?” explained. Marija Freudenberg, who works in the Foreign Office, reported on her experiences in Belarus and emphasized the EU's strength in the common internal market. She highlighted the need for the EU to communicate and engage more actively.

Saravanan Ganesan, head of communications at AFRIW e. V., shared his non-European perspective and pointed out the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ganesan called for more solidarity and exchange between countries, especially when it comes to dealing with refugees.

Julia Schneider, member of the Bundestag for Alliance 90/The Greens, gave insight as a politician into the social dissatisfaction and the challenges that Europe is facing. The panelists agreed that the master's degree in European Studies (MES) is still recommended as it offers an interdisciplinary view of democracies. Schneider reminded those in attendance that the question “Why MES?” was easy, but also essential, and answered: “What else?”

Master's degree in European Studies

European Studies is a complex field of study that illuminates the legal, economic, historical and cultural aspects of Europe. The programs typically provide knowledge of political science, EU public policy, European history, European law, economics and sociology. Some programs also integrate national issues into a comparative framework, which is important for graduates to understand the diverse challenges and trends within the EU. [wikipedia.org]

The course prepares participants to analyze and evaluate current developments in European integration. European studies courses are widespread at many universities, particularly in Europe, but similar programs can also be found in North America, Asia and Australasia.

A point that is relevant for students of “European Studies: Politics – Law – Society” is the interdisciplinary overview of historical and current developments in Europe. The bachelor's degree program places great emphasis on modules on geography, history and cultural communication. The core area includes a total of 102 credit points (CP), with a stay abroad, various language courses and a practice-oriented internship being mandatory. [uni-saarland.de]

The clear structure of these courses, which offer both core subjects and elective subjects, promotes a comprehensive education. The course is specifically designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address challenges at a European level.