“German. French. German. French. German.”
Jo Leinen’s description of the volatile nationalities lived by the residents of his small hometown on the French-German border is difficult to imagine for a generation of high school students who—for the most part—have come of age in peacefully neighbouring countries with mutually open borders. Indeed, the idea was an excellent way to capture the attention of the twenty or so high school students visiting the Historical Archives.
The students, a fifth-year class from the Salvemini Duca D’Aosta high school, were at the Archives to participate in its educational activity on European Union institutions and values. Leinen sat down at the table with them in the framework of the Archives’ long-standing partnership with the European Parliament Former Members Association (FMA).
Opening a door to Europe
In an interview, Mr Leinen explained some reasons why the FMA pursues engagement with school and campus programmes. “It is important that young people are informed about the European Parliament—the ‘citizen’s chamber’”, he said. “They can ask us questions, and get an insider’s view of this unique democratic institution.”
“We hope it has a positive impact, and stimulates them to seek out more information and be more active in exploring EU issues,” he continued. “It’s a way to open the door to Europe.”
Addressing tough issues around the table
During the laboratory, Mr Leinen described his experiences in German and European politics, and briefly explained the relationships among the European institutions and how they work to serve citizens. He transmitted the enthusiasm he felt while serving in European Parliament, the only transnational law-making body on the planet. “It is fun and exciting, and you are surrounded by representatives from all of the other countries. I loved it.”
Leinen’s encouragement to the eighteen- and nineteen-year-olds to “get interested in things beyond their own personal lives” fell on fertile ground. At his offer to field questions, they quickly pressed him on some of the most difficult issues of the day: immigration, rearmament, sustainable development, further European enlargement, family, and dealing with the war between Israel and Palestine.
As Leinen later commented, “I was struck by their open-mindedness. They are very aware of the big priorities for European countries.”
“As a senior ex-MEP, it is interesting to see what young people are thinking about. This programme is a way to be informed about their questions, problems, and expectations,” he said.