The European Student Assemby (ESA) is more than an academic exercise; it is an immersion into the heart of European policy-making. This year, participants delve into pressing issues such as artificial intelligence regulation, sustainable development, and migration policies. Through panel discussions and workshops, students not only debated these topics but also crafted concrete policy recommendations aimed at shaping Europe’s future. This hands-on approach provided invaluable insights into the complexities of governance and the importance of informed civic engagement.

Beyond the formal sessions, ESA 2025 offered students the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with peers from across Europe. These interactions transcended academic collaboration, fostering a sense of shared purpose and mutual respect among participants. Engaging with diverse perspectives enriched students’ understanding of European identity and underscored the value of unity in diversity—a core principle of the CHARM-EU alliance.

Participating in such a multifaceted assembly was not without its challenges. Students navigated the complexities of coordinating with international peers, balancing differing viewpoints, and confronting the realities of contemporary global issues. However, these challenges served as catalysts for personal and professional growth. Students honed their negotiation skills, developed resilience, and gained a deeper appreciation for collaborative problem-solving—skills that are essential for future leaders and changemakers.

In this article we bring to you the inspiring testimonials of some of the students of CHARM-EU university members attending ESA 2025.

Josué Loyola Ordóñez, University of Würzburg

Why did you apply to ESA what did you expect from such an experience?

I have always been interested in being part of spaces where young people’s voices can be heard and have an impact on society, creating change either in the present or in the future.

ESA2025 exceeded my expectations. It was not only a space to exchange concerns and different points of view on the issues affecting young people today, but also a place for learning, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections.

What have you learnt at ESA, and what was your highlight?

The most important lesson I take from ESA2025 is that young people can truly be agents of change. Our concerns and proposals are taken into account, and we play a significant role in decision-making and in the development of public policies for the benefit of our societies.

I believe the biggest highlight was the diversity—not only of participants that ESA brings together but also of the topics presented for discussion. These topics are relevant not only at the European level but also globally. This diversity makes ESA an ideal space to gather different perspectives and propose meaningful solutions to today’s challenges.

Which challenges did you face during the conference?

The main challenge was teamwork and coordination within the working groups, especially considering the large number of participants in each. Additionally, the time available to review the recommendations from other groups was quite limited.

Jolie Albrecht, University of Würzburg

What was your motivation to apply to ESA?

By participating in ESA 2025 as a representative of CHARM-EU, Abo Akademi and the University of Würzburg, I expect and more importantly, I hope ESA nurtures this sense of belonging. Establishing connections across Europe is what has shaped me throughout high school and continues to do so in my studies. Additionally, as a future teacher, I do not only wish to inspire and encounter myself with new, international experience but also a new generation of students that are learning in an increasingly diverse classroom. This, however, should not pose an impending challenge to us but a choice to learn from and with each other. Inclusion ranks amongst the top concerns young people have today. A threatening climate change and rising living expenses are another two examples.

What was the best part of ESA for you?

Without doubt, getting to know so many open-minded, kind and motivated people has been my personal highlight at ESA 2025. Despite our work and effort to propose innovative recommendations for the European Parliament, it is the positive, collaborative atmosphere, that I will remember the most. While working on sustainable solutions for a Greener tomorrow, the proposals express the will of many young people to actively address the persisting challenges emerging from the global climate change. Not only did I benefited from the knowledge of my panel colleagues, but I also gained new insight into various other areas of expertise as the assembly brought together students from all disciplines. For me, ESA 2025 facilitated a profound sense of European unity across all participants, hope for a brighter future led by motivated young Europeans, and inspiration to never not give voice to what matters.

Sara Sagdati, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)

Why did you apply to ESA?

I applied to the European Student Assembly because I saw it as a unique opportunity to apply the knowledge I’ve gained from studying International Relations. ESA brings together students from across Europe who are passionate about driving change, making it an ideal platform for networking, collaboration, and practical learning.

I was also drawn to the role of panel coordinator, as it allowed me to strengthen my leadership and team management skills. Given my strong interest in social justice and equality, Panel 7: Unveiling Inequalities was a natural choice — a chance to work on issues I deeply care about.

What did you expect from such an experience?

I expected to gain hands-on experience in policy writing, development, and analysis. As a coordinator, I also aimed to improve my public speaking, team coordination, and debating skills, while learning how to effectively guide a diverse group of peers.

What have you learnt at ESA, which takeaways do you obtain and what was your highlight?

One key takeaway is this: youth are not just the future — we’re ready to lead now. All we need is for policymakers to listen and create space for our voices.

The highlight for me was finally meeting my panel members and fellow coordinator in person. After working together online for over three months, we had built strong connections and even friendships. Meeting in Strasbourg, spending time together, and learning from one another was incredibly rewarding.

Our panel was composed of students from different countries and regions across Europe, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives. This diversity made our policy discussions especially rich and meaningful. I was particularly proud when all of our policy proposals passed the final vote!

Sheenagh Rowland, Trinity College Dublin

What did suprise you the most at ESA 2025?

I don’t think I realised how much active participation was required at ESA – similar events I’ve attended in the past have offered participants more passive roles. At ESA, the event really relied on panellists, coordinators, and alumni collaborating together. It helped me to realise that if you want to make real change happen, you must take the initiative yourself.

My highlight of ESA was chatting, discussing and debating with other participants. Having worked online together for three months prior to the conference, it was great to finally meet each other in person! I think I learned so much just by talking to other participants about their experiences at their universities and in their countries.

I felt that we took on a lot of different roles throughout the conference – from policymakers to electoral commissioners to social butterflies. It was sometimes hard to switch between so many unique roles, especially since I had little experience in most of them. But all in all, I was grateful for the challenge, as it provided a new learning opportunity.

Students from CHARM-EU university members together with Meritxell Chaves, Secretary General of CHARM-EU.

Reflecting on the Experience and Looking Ahead

The impact of ESA 2025 on CHARM-EU students was profound and lasting. Participants returned with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired to apply their experiences to their academic pursuits and civic engagements. The assembly reinforced the importance of active participation in democratic processes and the role of education in empowering individuals to effect positive change.

As CHARM-EU continues fostering innovative and inclusive education, the experiences of its students at ESA 2025 exemplify the alliance’s mission to prepare learners to address global challenges collaboratively and compassionately. The insights gained and connections made during the assembly will undoubtedly influence the students’ future endeavors and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on Europe’s development.

The European Student Assembly (ESA) is the flagship initiative of the EUC Voices Erasmus+ project, designed to bring together students from across Europe each year.