On April 21-22, 2023 Anastasia Liesna, a 2^nd year student at the Faculty of International Economics and Management and Stefania Bulah, a 3-rd year student  at the Faculty of International Economics and Management  took part in the FuturEU Competition 2023, as observers. The FuturEU is an initiative, founded by Hertie School, Berlin. The FuturEU Observatory Track, under which students from Ukraine had a unique opportunity to attend the event, was organized within the "CIVICA for Ukraine" project with the assistance of the Warsaw School of Economics SGH and support of the Polish Agency for Academic Exchanges NAWA.

The futurEU is guided by the principles of expertise, competence and constructiveness. It unites students interested in European Union issues, integration of Ukraine into EU, collaborating with experts on the EU and its enlargement, climate policies and sustainability, to contribute to debates on shaping the EU of tomorrow. The topic for the  competition in 2023 was “Climate Change and Societal Transformation: How Can EU Policy Advance Climate Protection and Sustainability in a Turbulent World?”

The futurEU - Observatory Track for Ukrainian Students envisaged their ability to fully participate in all elements of the program: 

• Stage 1: February – March 2023 ( online)

The online workshops  covered such topics, as the EU, the decision and policy-making process in the EU, as well as writing policy documents (such as policy briefs and papers). 

• Stage 2: April 2023 (20-21 April 2023) - Berlin 

The third round of the futurEU competition  culminated in the Finals, which  took place in Berlin and was attended by the semi-finalists and 10 Ukrainian students participating in a separate track. The program for the Finals  included a workshop on EU-enlargement, where Ukrainian participants took a leading role and shared their perspectives on the future of Europe, the future of Ukraine, and the prospects for European integration.

• Stage 3: May 2023 – (online, home universities)

The participants from Ukraine prepared a short publication about the European Union and European future of Ukraine.

We are pleased to share Anastasia Liesna’s essay:

The FuturEU Initiative through the eyes of the member of the Observer Track

As a Ukrainian I have lived through numerous challenges in my life: two grand revolutions and a full-scale war, unleashed by russia. They made me understand that, as a citizen, I was responsible for changing the life of my country for the better. Therefore, the choice of my future profession fell on international economics since I believe that understanding global economic dynamics and fostering international cooperation play a crucial role in shaping a prosperous and stable future for Ukraine. The complex interplay of trade, investment, and policy decisions on a global scale has a direct impact on the economic well-being of countries, including my homeland.

Taking part in the FuturEU Initiative wasa big honor for me, as it enabled me to engage in conversations with EU representatives and learn from their experience on one of the key global issues – climate change. As a Ukrainian student, I felt, I carried a huge responsibility of representing my home country on a European arena, because Ukraine was yet to join the EU and become a part of the European Union. FuturEU was also an opportunity for meto showcase Ukraine's potential and commitment to addressing global challenges. In spite of being a member of the observer track rather than the actual participant, I didn’t feel excluded from the workshops, and in fact throughout the competition, I engaged in intense discussions, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative projects with fellow participants from different European countries. It was a truly enriching experience as we shared our diverse perspectives, ideas, and solutions to combat climate change. The opportunity to work closely with EU representatives allowed me to gain valuable insights into the policies, initiatives, and best practices implemented within the European Union.

During the competition, I also had the chance to present Ukraine's perspective on climate change and the steps we are taking as a nation to mitigate its effects. Together with other students from Ukrainian universities, I emphasized the importance of international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer to support sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It was crucial for me to showcase Ukraine's potential as a partner in tackling global issues, despite not being an EU member state yet. Since the beginning in 2014 and full-scale russian invasion in 2022, the amount of water, air and soil pollution has been growing fast. After the war the statistical data on the level of deforestation and number of extinct animal species will shock the world community. To tackle these challenge it is crucial to start planning a comprehensive strategy for environmental restoration and conservation in Ukraine right now. That is why I value the youth involvement and intergenerational dialogue in shaping the future, provided by the FuturEU organizers. As a young Ukrainian, I recognize the need for sustainable policies that consider the long-term implications of climate change on our planet and future generations, especially the ones caused by the ongoing war.

To my mind, all the workshops were devoted to the topics, that influenced and shaped my worldview on climate change, however, one of them resonated with me the most. I am talking about the one on ecocide, delivered by Aaron Dumont, followed by a presentation by Dr. Yuliia Ovchynnykova, the Ukrainian MP. I was greatly impressed by the extent at which our everyday-life activities harm the nature, but what made my heart beat faster was the amount of pollution, caused by the war actions. During that workshop, Aaron Dumont shed the light on the concept of ecocide and its implications for the environment, which highlighted the urgent need for stronger environmental regulations, accountability, and justice to protect our planet. Dr. Yuliia Ovchynnykova's presentation further emphasized the importance of addressing the environmental consequences of the war in Ukraine. The devastation caused by the conflict not only affects human lives but also has far-reaching implications for the environment. After a year of the full-scale invasion, actions by the European Union concerning the potential for addressing ecocide and promoting environmental justice not only in Ukraine, but in the whole world become even more significant.

  The key takeaways, I gained from other seminars, including the ones on policy brief writing, EU policy-making, EU enlargement, and of course public speaking, are the following:

• The seminar on policy brief writing provided me with valuable skills in crafting concise and impactful documents that effectively communicate policy recommendations. I learned how to structure and present complex information in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for policymakers to understand and act upon. This skill will be instrumental in my future endeavors, as I aspire to contribute to evidence-based policy-making and drive positive change.
• Understanding EU policy-making processes was another crucial takeaway from the workshops. Learning about the various institutions, decision-making procedures, and the role of different actors within the European Union deepened my understanding of how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated at the EU level. This knowledge will enable me to navigate the complex landscape of EU affairs and engage in discussions and initiatives that shape Ukraine's relationship with the EU.
• The seminar on EU enlargement shed light on the potential opportunities and challenges that Ukraine may face on its path towards EU membership. I gained insights into the criteria, negotiations, and reforms necessary for a country to join the EU. Understanding the requirements and expectations placed upon aspiring member states will help me contribute to the necessary reforms within Ukraine and foster stronger ties with the EU.
•  The workshop on public speaking was instrumental in honing my communication skills and boosting my confidence in delivering effective presentations. I learned techniques to engage audiences, convey messages persuasively, and handle questions and challenges during public speaking engagements. These skills will be invaluable in my future endeavors, as I aim to be an effective advocate for Ukraine's interests and contribute to meaningful discussions on the global stage.

Bearing in mind all of the ideas, that were presented during semi-finals, it becomes really hard to come with ways to better address climate change and facilitate an equitable climate transition, since the participants demonstrated that impact of ecology on almost every sphere of our life. Therefore, from my point of view, it is crucial to adopt a multi-faceted approach that addresses climate change from various angles and involves stakeholders from different sectors. First of all, transitioning to renewable energy sources should be a top priority. Encouraging the development and adoption of clean energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels. This requires investing in renewable energy infrastructure, providing incentives for renewable energy projects, and promoting research and innovation in the field. Secondly, promoting sustainable agriculture and land use practices is essential. According to the findings of the team 86, agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. Encouraging farmers to adopt climate-smart techniques, such as organic farming, agroforestry, and precision agriculture, can help reduce emissions, enhance soil health, and preserve natural habitats. Additionally, supporting initiatives that promote sustainable land management, reforestation, and afforestation can contribute to carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, I was greatly impressed by the ideas, delivered by teams 77 and 53, stating that addressing transportation emissions is crucial in combating climate change. Taking into account all the details covered by these two teams in their presentations, I came to a conclusion that promoting the switch from airplanes to night trains, improving public transportation systems, and investing in sustainable infrastructure can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. Encouraging active modes of transportation, such as walking and cycling, and implementing policies that prioritize public transportation and discourage private vehicle use can also contribute to a greener and more sustainable transport system.

FuturEU not only broadened my understanding of climate change but also strengthened my determination to contribute to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. It ignited a passion within me to continue advocating for climate action, both within Ukraine and on the international stage. I am committed to leveraging my knowledge, skills, and experiences to drive positive change in my country and foster greater collaboration between Ukraine and the European Union. Thanks to all of the information, provided during the workshop, my abilities to formulate, present and defend my values only deepened, therefore increasing my chances to have a say in ecological incentives of the post-war rebuilding of Ukraine. A month after the final round of this year competition, my gratitude continues to only grow from day to day. I would like to end this essay with a “Thank you” to the EU representatives, experts, and speakers who shared their knowledge, experiences, and insights during the workshops. Their expertise and guidance have broadened my understanding of climate change, policy-making, and the role of the European Union in addressing global challenges. I would also like to express my gratitude to my fellow participants, both from Ukraine and across Europe. The discussions, debates, and exchange of ideas have been invaluable in shaping my perspective and challenging my assumptions. And finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the FuturEU initiative for organizing such a remarkable competition that not only empowers young minds but also recognizes the importance of addressing climate change and building sustainable future.

We are pleased to share Stefania Bulakh's essay:

Passion for Perfection - Is That How You Describe Yourself? If not, then you are not ready for great discoveries. To achieve them, one must have the desire. Passion is a strong force that drives meaningful change. When people have a deep desire to make a difference, they become catalysts for transformation and progress. Passion sparks creativity, determination, and resilience, enabling individuals to go beyond their limits and find innovative solutions to complex problems. This dedication in creating a better world fuels the motivation to take action and make a lasting impact. By cultivating passion in ourselves and inspiring it in others, we unlock the potential to address the environmental crisis and create a sustainable future. All of these aspects I could be able to observe in the ideas of the participants of the FuturEU.

The FuturEU program brings together passionate students from different universities who share a common enthusiasm for making a difference. This collective feeling of implementing changes creates an exciting environment where ideas are shared, collaboration thrives, and transformative projects take shape. The program not only empowers students to tackle environmental challenges but also supports their personal growth and development. By participating in sustainability initiatives and environmental preservation efforts, students enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and gain valuable hands-on experience. The FuturEU program magnifies the impact of these passionate students by providing resources and support to turn their visions into reality and inspire others to join the cause. The most significant lesson I learned was that we, as individuals, have the power to make a difference. It all begins with taking responsibility for our own actions. What particularly impressed me was witnessing the remarkable organizational skills and unwavering motivation displayed by the young individuals who spearheaded this massive program. Their dedication and enthusiasm were truly inspiring, demonstrating that age or perceived limitations should never hinder us from pursuing meaningful initiatives. The concept of starting small and making personal changes is a powerful notion when it comes to addressing environmental issues. It emphasizes the significance of individual actions and their potential cumulative impact. By taking small steps in our daily lives, such as reducing transportation usage or adopting sustainable practices, we can contribute to a larger movement for ecological preservation. Recognizing that change begins with oneself empowers individuals to take ownership of their actions and inspires others to follow suit. Each small action, when multiplied across individuals, can lead to substantial positive change for the environment and future generations.

In recent years, the escalating environmental degradation has brought our planet perilously close to irreversible ecocide. The urgency to protect our environment and secure a sustainable future for generations to come cannot be overstated. Students who participated in a policy brief competition have demonstrated their readiness to address environmental challenges in the European area. Their engagement signifies a growing awareness of the need to take immediate action to mitigate the detrimental impact of human activities on our planet. Ecocide, which involves the widespread destruction of ecosystems, poses a grave threat to biodiversity, climate stability, and the overall health of our planet. Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, overconsumption, and greenhouse gas emissions have accelerated the pace of environmental degradation, endangering not only current generations but also future ones who will inherit an irreparably damaged Earth. The consequences of ecocide are far reaching, affecting ecosystems, wildlife, and ultimately, the well-being of humanity itself. Addressing the impending ecological crisis requires collective commitment and collaboration. Individuals, communities, governments, and international organizations must work together to implement effective policies and initiatives that prioritize sustainability and environmental preservation. The students who participated in the FuturEU competition have showcased their deep understanding of ecological problems and offered innovative ideas and practical approaches to mitigate environmental degradation. Their enthusiasm and readiness to be agents of change are encouraging signs of progress and hope for a brighter future.

Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that environmental issues transcend borders. The proposed policies and actions formulated by the competition participants hold significance not only for Europe but also for global environmental preservation. The interconnectedness between social justice and environmental protection becomes evident, highlighting the need to address gender inequality, among other factors, to safeguard ecosystems worldwide. Additionally, it is crucial for Ukrainians to have support of other countries. My country has suffered severe ecological consequences due to the proximity to heavily industrialized areas and the ecocide committed by Russia. By offering assistance and solidarity, European Commission can empower Ukrainians in our struggle against environmental degradation and foster a healthier and more sustainable environment for all. Ukraine, known for its remarkable biodiversity, is facing a significant setback in its environmental preservation efforts due to the recent collapse of the Kakhovka dam. This unfortunate incident, occurring amidst Russia's aggression towards Ukraine, has far-reaching consequences beyond the human toll. The collapse has resulted in extensive damage to the surrounding biosystems, including the destruction of irrigation systems, agricultural lands, and the potential spread of animal diseases. President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially described the attack on the dam by Russia as an act of ecocide. Given the invasion of Russian forces and their impact on Ukraine, it has become increasingly critical to address the issue of ecocide in the country. Failing to take immediate action could have dire consequences, and there is a sense of urgency to act before it is too late. As the part of the Ukrainian delegation, I am delighted to participate in the efforts to enhance the ecological situation and witness the support extended by European communities, exemplified by the invitation from FuturEU to be a part of this significant event. Some of the participants presented innovative ideas for reduction transportation usage, especially in the aviation industry. By starting small and gradually implementing changes, we can collectively achieve substantial reductions in carbon emissions and resource consumption while maintaining mobility and connectivity. One intriguing concept proposed by participants is the utilization of night trains. Operating during off-peak hours, these trains offer reduced passenger load and increased comfort. By capitalizing on this opportunity, we can optimize resource utilization and provide efficient transportation solutions. Night trains save energy and promote a more sustainable transportation system. While some ideas gained attention, it is essential to assess their feasibility and compatibility with different societal contexts. For instance, the proposal to reduce the number of working days may not align with the needs and demands of certain societies, considering cultural and industrial factors. For instance, the notion of work holds great significance in Ukrainian culture, and considering the social perspective and future industrial development, this approach is not appropriate or timely at present.

One of the most remarkable cases was the mention of the link between social inequality and ecological challenges which is just a thought-provoking perspective presented by the participants. The idea that gender inequality and patriarchal systems contribute to environmental problems highlights the interconnectedness of social justice and environmental sustainability. By striving for gender equality, equal access to resources, and inclusive decisionmaking processes, we can foster a more harmonious relationship with the environment. Recognizing and addressing social inequalities is crucial in building a sustainable future, where all individuals have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from environmental initiatives. All the participants displayed their remarkable qualities during the event. The students from various disciplines conducted thorough research and demonstrated incredible competence. Each idea presented had the potential to be a frontrunner. As an enthusiastic observer, I rooted for all the participants since their policy briefs were exceptional. The students exhibited great potential and a strong drive to shape the future. The jury members demonstrated their professionalism by providing fair evaluations and showing genuine interest in each participant. Moreover, arranging such an event and bringing together such a diverse and motivated group of individuals was undoubtedly a challenging task for the organizers. However, it is essential to express sincere gratitude to them. Their careful planning and attention to detail in gathering a diverse and motivated group of individuals deserve high praise. Their hard work and dedication deserve recognition for making this event a resounding success. To sum up the takeaways of the event, it is needed to be highlighted that starting the journey of change and pursuing ecological goals at an individual level has the potential for far-reaching global implications. By starting with ourselves and igniting a passion for environmental stewardship, we can inspire others and create a ripple effect that transcends borders and continents. The FuturEU program exemplifies the collective efforts to realize the vision of ecological development within the European Union. However, its influence extends beyond European borders, serving as a source of inspiration and a testament to the power of individual actions in shaping a sustainable future for all.