From July 2 to July 4, 2025, around 70 young people came together, united by what is perhaps the most significant idea of our time: Europe. Not as an abstract concept on paper, not as a distant institution in Brussels, but as a lively conversation, as a thought, as a community.
For three days, Potsdam became a stage for young people who came not only to talk, but also to listen, learn, exchange ideas, and understand Europe a little better.
The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Potsdam), otherwise a place for career guidance, business contacts, and corporate networks, was transformed during these days into a space for political education, democratic participation, and critical thinking. A total of 50 delegates discussed and worked on highly topical issues in six committees. From education and security to environmental protection, equality, and social justice. The result was not only resolutions, but also perspectives and ideas that extend far beyond this session.
The highlight of the session took place in the Brandenburg State Parliament (Landtag Brandenburg). Sitting in a parliament, between the chairs of real decision-making processes, was a defining moment for many. Dr. Christian Herzog and State Secretary Dr. Markus Westphal addressed the young delegates with moving words, and Nikoleta Muntean, EuroApprentice, shared her experiences in the European vocational training program in a personal speech and encouraged the young people to actively shape European engagement.
The words of State Parliament President Prof. Dr. Ulrike Liedtke were particularly impressive. She spoke not only about responsibility and freedom, but also about what it means at its core to be part of Europe, with all the rights but also the obligations that come with it. These were words that did not fade away, but lingered.
All this was made possible by the support of the State of Brandenburg and the Potsdam Chamber of Industry and Commerce, to whom we owe our sincere thanks. But the young people themselves also contributed to the success with their curiosity, their courage, and their willingness to look beyond their own horizons.
It may have only been three days on the calendar, but for many it was a small step that set something bigger in motion. Because Europe is not created in large halls alone; it grows in moments like these, when people come together, listen to each other, and have the courage to shape the future together.