An article by Marsel Haka, YRN delegate at the Europa Forum Wachau 2024, and YRN Chair for Green & Sustainable Europe
From the 19th to the 22nd of June, the AER sent a youth delegation to the yearly Europa Forum Wachau, composed of two former AER interns, and two members of the Youth Regional Network. Marsel Haka, one of the youth delegates, shares his experience with us.
The 28th Europa Forum Wachau was convened under the motto “Rebooting Europe“. This yearly gathering brings together prominent figures from politics, business, culture, media and academia to discuss the critical developments needed within the European Union. The Forum aims to identify and illuminate key European visions for the future, fostering a unified way forward.
A vibrant mix of young people from across Europe gathered on the first day, brought together by an Erasmus+ partnership, allowing youth delegates to join this high-level political event. It was our first chance to connect and to introduce ourselves. Though exhaustion lingered from the trip, it couldn’t dampen the excited chatter that filled the bus. Here we were, a diverse team, united by a common purpose to conquer the Europa Forum Wachau.
As we journeyed on, the landscape transformed, rolling hills giving way to a breathtaking vista. There, majestically perched on a hilltop, stood Göttweig Abbey. Its grandeur was undeniable, a towering structure that whispered of fairy tales and forgotten times. In that moment, a feeling of belonging washed over me. This wasn’t just another trip it was an opportunity to be part of something significant. (Perhaps a hint of royalty even flickered across my mind, the image of a rightful heir returning to a long-lost castle. But hey, dreams are free, right?)
The hours were passing and after we settled in, a yard with greenery and chairs was waiting for us. As twilight painted the sky, the energy shifted. Music thrummed through the air, mingling with the rising tide of conversation. Tables groaned under the weight of an epic feast , sweet treats, and yes, bottles of regional wine that added a touch of romance to the atmosphere. (Let’s just say, the conversations under the starry night sky got progressively more interesting!)
Fueled by the delicious food and infectious music, we danced the night away. Every ounce of energy was poured into those joyful movements. Finally, the clock was ticking late and we retreated in our dormitories.
The chirping of a symphony of alarms jolted us awake on next day. Apparently, even international diplomacy can’t stop the snooze button. Yesterday’s charming party people were now transformed into a sea of suits and serious expressions.
Leaving behind the, ahem, “creative disarray” of our rooms, we headed for the first day of the event. This experience was beyond special. Sharing moments with influential figures under the constant flash of cameras was indeed not an everyday occurrence.
We snagged a table and settled in to listen to a parade of professors and diplomats dissect the world’s most pressing issues. Luckily, the interactive QR code quizzes kept things lively. The breaks were a lifesaver, offering a chance to refuel on delicious local food.
By the time evening rolled around, our brains were pleasantly overloaded. We escaped the conference center and found a cozy little restaurant nearby. Conversations flowed, and the laughter echoing through as was a testament to the camaraderie we’d built. Following a long day, some of us chose to head to bed for some well-deserved rest, while others opted to extend the evening, enjoying the company and conversation.
Day two dawned with a leisurely breakfast followed by preparations for the day’s events held right on campus. The central hall of the historic building buzzed with activity as diplomats, the stars of the day, arrived. The venue itself was a masterpiece, adorned with classical paintings on the ceiling. The opening ceremony was a feast for the senses, featuring talented violinists, tenors, and dancers showcasing the value of art and historical culture.
A highlight was Federal Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg awarding the “Dr. Alois Mock Prize” to Josep Borrell Fontelles. Schallenberg emphasized the importance of Western Balkan accession to the EU, while Borrell Fontelles expressed his delight at receiving the award and the forum’s location. Both speeches reiterated the significance of Western Balkan membership for a complete European identity.
A panel discussion titled “Enlargement of the EU in the Western Balkans: Time to reach reality!” delved deeper into the topic. After the presentations, we managed to meet some distinguished figures, including the esteemed Josep Borrell, who graciously exchanged photos and conversation with us.
The afternoon offered a cultural immersion at the State Gallery of Lower Austria, showcasing the region’s artistic heritage from paintings to sculptures. Here, we gained valuable insights into Vienna’s artistic legacy. We capped the day off with an optional party on a ship.
Day three saw the arrival of Theresa May, who addressed the Forum on the pressing challenges facing society. Her speech served as the closing act of the event. After that, we turned our attention to packing and getting ready to leave. Here, too, we were fortunate enough to meet Theresa May personally, capturing photos and unforgettable memories.
The three-day Europa Forum Wachau concluded with heartfelt goodbyes, overflowing with memories and new connections.
