COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
The visit provided an overview of the Presidency rotation system. The delegation was introduced to the roles of trainees from Ireland, France, and the Netherlands, who shared insights on the functioning of working parties and committees, the voting process in Council sessions, and cooperation between member states. We also discussed the application process for traineeships and visited the red carpet where Ministers and Ambassadors enter Council sessions, taking photos with the flags.
EUROPEAN EXTERNAL ACTION SERVICE (EEAS)
At EEAS, LUSDA explored EU diplomacy, security, and cultural diplomacy with insightful sessions led by experts. These sessions included an in-depth explanation of the EEAS's mission in external and internal actions while clarifying the measures and core strategic compass that led to the evolution of the EU security measures from 2003 onwards.
EUROPEAN COMISSION
At the EU Commission, LUSDA's delegation gained key insights into its functions, EU-NATO relations, and global challenges, ending with a visit to the iconic Press Center.
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
LUSDA was hosted by the European Parliament, where a guided tour offered a comprehensive explanation of the hemicycle, the iconic chamber where Members of the European Parliament convene to debate and vote on key legislation. We also had the opportunity to learn about the crucial role of interpreters and translators, whose work ensures accessibility in all 24 EU languages, allowing seamless communication and participation for all citizens of the European Union, regardless of their linguistic background.
NATO HQ
The visit provided an in-depth overview of the alliance's structure, decision-making processes, and key missions in Kosovo and Iraq, while also addressing broader strategic challenges, including NATO-Russia relations, the Ukraine crisis, media misinformation, strategic enlargement, and Italy's contributions to NATO missions and budget. Discussions also covered multilateral and bilateral meetings at HQ, the distinction between public and classified areas, countering fake news through social media and direct debunking, Italy's role within NATO, Chinese influence in the South, security cooperation, and NATO's collaboration with MAECI.