For the first time, a group of students from the University of Lleida had the opportunity to take part in an academic trip to Brussels to gain first-hand insight into the workings of the main institutions of the European Union. The activity, organized by Professor Eimys Ortiz Hernández, Serra Húnter Lecturer in Public International Law and International Relations, involved 25 students from the Law and Law + Business Administration degrees, spanning various academic years, from second year to master’s level, at the Faculty of Law, Economics and Tourism.

Over the course of three intensive days, the group visited the European Commission, the European Parliament —where they were welcomed by MEP Javi López—, the Council of the European Union, the European Council, the European Committee of the Regions, the European Economic and Social Committee, and the Permanent Representation of Spain to the EU. Each visit offered a unique opportunity to engage directly with professionals and representatives of these institutions, ask questions, and better understand how decisions impacting all EU citizens are made.

The experience was highly enriching on both an academic and personal level. For many of the students, it was their first direct encounter with the European institutional environment, offering a practical experience that complements the acquisition of competences developed throughout their university studies.

This first trip was made possible thanks to the support of the Vice-Rectorate for Students and Employability, the Vice-Rectorate for Culture and University Extension, the Trivium Debate Chair, and the Faculty of Law, Economics and Tourism at UdL, whose backing was essential in bringing this initiative to life.