By Julia Dec
On Friday, February 27, 2025, the Salle Simone Veil hall at the European School Luxembourg II became a hub of diplomatic and engaging discourse. Organized by the pupils for the pupils, the “Europe in Action” conference brought together the most politically hooked students from S6 and S7 for a morning of concise talks laden with eye-opening themes.
A Warm Welcome and Inspiring Visions
The event opened with a welcoming address by Mr. Aibhistín Ó Coimín, Deputy Director and Head of the Secondary Cycle. Following this, the student organizers, Mattia Paganotti and Issao Debout, delivered inspiring speeches regarding the importance of a united Europe. Their words set a professional yet passionate tone for the day, emphasizing the role of the younger generation in shaping the Union’s future.
S7 student organisers of the event. Left to right: Issao Debout, Mattia Paganotti
Distinguished Guests and Global Themes
The conference featured an impressive roster of speakers from various political and judicial backgrounds:
- Nicolas Schmit: Former Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights and former Minister.
- Andrea Biondi: Advocate General for the European Court of Justice.
- Isabel Wiseler-Lima: MEP for the European People’s Party.
- Tilly Metz: MEP for the Green Party.
- Liz Braz: MP for the Socialist Party.
- Mike Arrendorf and Julian Wald: Leadership from the Young European Federalists, Luxembourg.
Distinguished guest speakers listening to the organizers’ speeches. Left to right: Tilly Metz, Liz Braz, Andrea Biondi, Nicolas Schmit, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mike Arrendorf, Julian Wald.
Deep-Dive Discussions
The core of the event featured 45 minutes of intense discussion covering the most pressing challenges facing the EU today. The panel and students explored the complexities of the Mercosur treaty, the shifting dynamics of Europe and US relations, and the broader structural challenges currently facing the European Union.
A Tasty Bonus
Beyond the formal debates, the morning began with an exclusive “MUN-style” breakfast in the Administration building, where students had the rare opportunity to engage directly with the guest speakers.
A Lasting Impact
By veritably bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world politics, Mattia and Issao successfully created a platform for meaningful civic engagement at the Mamer school. In the words of Tilly Metz, “Young people are the future, but they are the present, too.”
Group photo taken at the end of the conference featuring the guest speakers, organisers, and an audience member. Left to right: Cherif Arezki Sylla, Liz Braz, Mattia Paganotti, Nicolas Schmit, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Julian Wald, Issao Debout, Mike Arrendorf, Tilly Metz, Andrea Biondi.