What is ESA?
The European Student Assembly (ESA) is a multi-month project that brings together students from various organisations across Europe to collaboratively develop proposals for the future direction of the European Union. Participants work in thematic panels, preparing 8–10 recommendations on a specific topic. The process involves not only group work but also training sessions, expert talks, and constructive peer feedback.
The project culminates in a multi-day gathering in Strasbourg, where final edits are made to the proposals, followed by a vote to determine whether they are adopted. If approved, the recommendations are passed on to decision-makers who have the power to implement or at least consider them.
What does it look like in practice?
This year’s edition was an exceptional experience for me. It was my first time taking part in such a large-scale event, with over 230 participants! Representing both ECIU and Lodz University of Technology, I had the opportunity to contribute at every stage – from drafting recommendations, through giving feedback to other panels, to casting my final vote.
I am proud to share that all the recommendations developed by my Panel 4: “Innovation for all. In what ways can the EU balance innovation and competitiveness to support sustainable economic growth?” were successfully adopted! Now comes the time to advocate for their dissemination and real-life application.
Why is it worth it?
ESA is not just about work – it is also an excellent opportunity to build international connections, engage in meaningful discussions, explore new cultures and… enjoy some sightseeing! Strasbourg, with its unique blend of French and German influences, is the perfect setting for this.
I wholeheartedly recommend participating in ESA to every student who wants to make a real impact on the future of the European Union. It is a rare opportunity for young voices – our voices – to truly be heard!
📌 More information: https://tiny.pl/z1n-ctm6
📌 Read about my personal experience: https://tiny.pl/fz8pnjz4
Author of text and photos: Aleksandra Adamczyk
