LL.M. European Law Graduation Ceremony: Celebrating a Year of Achievement

After a year of lectures, presentations, essays and exams, we celebrated the completion of our LL.M. in European Law, reflecting on a year of learning, exchange and shared experiences. The programme concluded with a graduation ceremony at the Institut du droit comparé, marking the end of an intensive academic journey and the beginning of new paths ahead.

Prof. Bonneau opened the ceremony with congratulatory remarks and a letter from our programme director, Prof. Chevreau, who was unfortunately unable to attend due to a scheduled absence. In her message, she highlighted our dedication, the diversity of our academic backgrounds and the international character of the programme.

Each graduate then received their diploma from Prof. Bonneau, along with his best wishes, officially becoming LL.M. graduates.

As class valedictorian, I had the honour of delivering the first speech, reflecting on our shared journey through the many facets of EU law, the high-quality teaching that prepared us for our future paths and the strong sense of community that defined our year. I also expressed our sincere gratitude to our professors, directors and staff for their guidance and support along the way.

In the following speech, Ben reflected on everyday life in Paris, showing how learning extended beyond the classroom – from navigating the city to sharing food, travel and cultural experiences.

Yumiko then turned to the practical insights of the programme, gained during study trips to Luxembourg, Brussels and Strasbourg, while also addressing broader questions of sovereignty, identity and global perspectives.

In the final speech, Antonio distinguished law from justice, encouraging graduates to use their education in service of others, while also recognising the importance of mental health and personal balance.

The ceremony then concluded with a cocktail reception, where faculty, graduates, friends and family came together to celebrate the achievement and the shared journey. It marked not only the completion of an academic milestone, but also the friendships, memories and perspectives that will continue long beyond this year.

Pia Hagen, Valedictorian 26′ LL.M. in European Law – Paris – Paris