Youth, Politics, European Leadership – “State of the Union: The Future of Europe and European Integration”
On May 27, Security Studies and World Politics organized the event “Youth, Politics, European Leadership” at the National Library of Romania, in the Mircea Eliade Hall. The event took place between 11:00 and 15:00 and brought together more than 80 participants.
The conference was opened by the Director of the Library, Professor Dr. Adrian Cioroianu, with a one-hour introductory session. During this session, the special guests discussed the study of European public policies, European institutions, and the functioning of the European Union, placing particular emphasis on the importance of European studies for young people
After a coffee and networking break, the main debate of the event followed: “State of the Union: The Future of Europe and European Integration.” This 90-minute debate brought together eight Members of the European Parliament and candidates, who discussed the future of the European Union and European integration through eight randomly drawn themes.
The panel included:
- Dacian Cioloș, former Prime Minister of Romania, REPER MEP and co-founder of REPER, former European Commissioner, and member of Renew Europe
- Cristian Bușoi, doctor in public health and health management, Member of the European Parliament since 2014 on behalf of PNL, and Chair of the European Parliament Committee on Industry, Research and Energy
- Alina Gîrbea, candidate of the United Right Alliance for the European Parliament elections, President of USR BENELUX, and co-founder of the Women in Politics programme
- Daniel Uncu, candidate for the European Parliament on behalf of the Alternative Right Party
- Dan Barna, former Deputy Prime Minister of Romania, Vice-President of the Chamber of Deputies, and USR candidate for the European Parliament
- Andi Cristea, former MEP, Deputy, and PSD candidate for the European Parliament
- Andrei Lupu, lawyer, Deputy, and REPER candidate for the European Parliament
- Ioan Cristian Chirteș, Senator, security studies expert, and Chair of the Standing Joint Committee of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate for the oversight of the Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI)
Instead of a traditional Q&A session, the event concluded with a 30–40 minute “Living Library” session. Participants had the opportunity to interact directly with the MEPs and candidates, ask personal questions, and discuss their experiences and perspectives.
The event highlighted the importance of youth engagement in politics and of a deeper understanding of the role played by European and national institutions within the European Union.
Security Studies and World Politics continues to encourage young people to take part in global and European dialogue by offering opportunities for development through workshops, networking sessions, and public events. Like our other initiatives, this event reflects our commitment to enriching the educational and professional experience of young people in Romania.
We thank our sponsors, Aqua Carpatica and Pizza Napoletana, for their support.