The Masters Programme "Democracy and Governance in Europe" (MADRE) - Your Door to Europe

Dear Friends of European Politics,

From 29 June to 3 July 2025, we, the students of the Master's program “Democracy and Governance in Europe” (MADRE), Class of 2024, had the opportunity to visit Brussels, the unofficial capital of the European Union, as part of an excursion. During these intensive and insightful days, the focus was above all on the democratic heart of Europe: the European Parliament.

The highlight of our trip was the meeting with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, for which we had the privilege of visiting the presidential floor. In addition, we had the chance to engage in stimulating discussions with Manfred Weber, René Repasi, journalists such as Timo Lehmann (Der Spiegel) and Eddie Wax (Euractiv), as well as experts from academia and interest groups. Topics included, among others, the rise of the far right in the EU, security and defense policy, the Multiannual Financial Framework, and the Spitzenkandidaten principle.

In the evenings, after our daily marathon of interviews, there was ample time for informal exchange among us students and various staff members of the institutions.

A memorable closing remark was delivered by Margaritis Schinas, former EU Commissioner for Promoting the European Way of Life under Ursula von der Leyen’s first Commission:

"Believe in Europe. Stay focused. Never disregard an option that is not given."

Our sincere thanks go to everyone who made this excursion possible, as well as to all our fellow students for always contributing to such a positive atmosphere.

Sofie, Lisa, Svea, and Florian

From June 26-30, 2023, an excursion to Brussels took place as part of the seminar "The European Commission put to the test" under the direction of Prof. Dr. Gabriele Abels. This offered the MADRE students the opportunity to talk and discuss with representatives from the "Brussels Bubble". This included employees from the EU institutions (Council, European Parliament, Commission and Committee of the Regions) as well as from a think tank or consulting firm and an NGO. A journalist was also among the interviewees. Many of the twelve discussions focused on the evaluation of the Commission under President von der Leyen. Not least on her policy of a "Union of Equality" and on whether she will run for office again in 2024.
In a relaxed atmosphere over dinner and Belgian beer, the students were able to exchange ideas with former students who now work in the EU institutions or are involved in EU politics in other capacities. All in all, the excursion offered the opportunity to gain insights into the workings of the "Brussels Bubble".

Testimonial
The field trip was a great way to get a real insight into EU politics on the ground. The different perspectives on and assessments of the work of the EU Commission under von der Leyen were very enlightening, partly contradicting the initial academic analyses.
In addition, it was very exciting to gain an insight into everyday work through the exchange with Tübingen alumni. It was very helpful to learn what skills are needed and how professional careers can develop in Brussels. Maybe one day I will also want to work in Brussels and for the idea of European unification.