LL.M. European Law study trip to Brussels (2-4 march 2026)
One of the most valuable aspects of studying European Law is the opportunity to experience the European Institutions up close. As part of our program, we spent several days in Brussels visiting key EU bodies and gaining practical insights into current political and legal developments. Alongside the academic program, we also had the chance to enjoy the city itself – made even better by the unexpectedly sunny weather.
Our visit began at the European Parliament, where we attended a LIBE Committee hearing on the proposed ban on conversion practices. This offered a concrete example of how civil society can contribute to the legislative process.
Our journey continued with visits to the Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee. Though less widely known, these bodies play a crucial role in ensuring that regional authorities and civil society organizations have a voice in EU policymaking.
A particularly insightful visit was to the German Permanent Representation to the EU, where we were welcomed by Moritz Thörner. He explained how the institution supports the work of the Council, acting as a bridge between national governments and EU bodies. He also addressed current challenges, including blockages in primary law matters, the ongoing Mercosur negotiations and broader questions regarding EU enlargement.
Our hemicycle visit to the European Parliament further deepened our understanding of its internal functioning. Learning more about the structure of the parliamentary groups and seeing the plenary chamber being prepared for an upcoming session made the institution’s work feel immediate and tangible.
Our final stop was the European Commission, where we focused on the legal dimension of EU policymaking. A particular highlight was the presentation by Florence Bronner, an Assas alumna now working in the Commission’s Legal Service in the field of competition law. She spoke about career paths within the institutions and addressed current challenges, such as ‘killer acquisitions’, a topic we had previously studied.
Pia Hagen, LL.M. European Law student
