From 26 to 28 November 2025, student representatives from European University Alliances gathered in Brussels for the FOREU4ALL Student-Led Community Event. Among them was Leon Hebeisen, representing EUPeace, who contributed to three days of intensive debate, knowledge exchange, and strategic reflection on the future of student involvement in European higher education governance. Organised with exceptional dedication the event created a dynamic space for dialogue across alliances, national systems, and institutional cultures.
Student Involvement as a Cornerstone of Democratic Governance
A key moment of the programme was the session on “Involvement of Students in Governance”, co-led by Leon Hebeisen (EUPeace), Seif Zakaria (FORTHEM) and Niki Kasis (ERUA). The discussion addressed structural challenges, ranging from administrative constraints to the lack of formal recognition for student roles, and explored promising practices emerging across European alliances. Contributions highlighted the importance of legal frameworks—such as those in Finland, Norway and Latvia—that guarantee student participation at the highest decision-making levels. The session emphasised a shared conclusion: without organised, legitimised and continuously supported student involvement, alliances cannot reach their social or educational potential.
Sharing Insights From Across European Alliances
Throughout the event, representatives exchanged examples of effective student engagement mechanisms. ECIU’s Competence Passport, EuroTeQ’s shared hybrid course catalogue, UNITA’s teaching and learning centres, and EUPeace’s own European Track and Students’ Peace Declaration were repeatedly cited as models for fostering both academic and social impact. These initiatives demonstrate how alliances can enhance democratic culture, empower students as co-creators of education, and respond to the evolving expectations of European societies.
A Stronger Vision for the Future of EUPeace
In Brussels, Leon provided insights into EUPeace’s developing student structures, the alliance’s commitment to inclusive teaching practices, and its growing culture of student-led initiatives. The meetings underscored the need for long-term strategies, secure funding models and clear communication channels to ensure meaningful participation. As EUPeace continues to expand its student engagement activities, the lessons from the FOREU4ALL event will play a crucial role in shaping future governance practices. The gathering in Brussels ultimately reaffirmed a shared conviction across alliances: empowering students is essential for building resilient, democratic and forward-looking European universities.
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