Ana Đurović’s, from the University of Montenegro, shares her experience at the European Student Assembly 2025

The interview was conducted by Sirin Fadaui (Syrine Fadaoui), a student from University Côte d’Azur who is currently doing an internship at the Rectorate of the University of Montenegro. It was originally shared at the University of Montenegro website on this link.

1. Your academic path has brought you here — to the heart of European democracy. How does it feel to be one of the selected students chosen to take part in the 2025 European Student Assembly?

I feel deeply honored and grateful to have had the opportunity to be one of the selected students participating in the European Student Assembly. Being among students from across Europe who share a common vision for the future was an incredible experience. It further motivated me to become more actively involved in social and political processes and to advocate for a stronger position of Montenegro and its citizens on the global stage.

2. What did it mean to you to represent the University of Montenegro at such a large-scale European event?

Representing the University of Montenegro, the Ulysseus Alliance, and my country at such an important European event was both an honor and a great responsibility. It was an opportunity to contribute to the dialogue among young people from all over Europe, to exchange ideas, and to promote the values Montenegro shares with the European Union. At a time when Montenegro is at a crucial stage on its path to EU integration, the engagement of young people is of fundamental importance. I see my participation as a small, but meaningful contribution to that process – proof that young people from Montenegro are ready and willing to actively participate in shaping Europe’s future.

3. What were the main themes discussed across the different panels at the event?

Throughout the months-long program, participants were divided into eight panels, each addressing key issues of contemporary society: mental health, environmental protection and sustainability, the role of artificial intelligence in democracy and innovation, lifelong learning, social justice, the fight against inequality, and fostering tolerance and diversity in Europe. The core idea was for young people from different countries to jointly develop policy proposals reflecting their needs, concerns, and visions, helping to bridge the gap between citizens and decision-makers. In Strasbourg, we presented our proposals during the plenary sessions and voted on the policies that would represent our collective voice moving forward.

4. How do you see the role of smaller or non-EU countries like Montenegro in shaping the future of Europe?

Montenegro is a clear example of how a small and non-EU country can contribute to strengthening Europe’s future. It has long been one of the most committed and advanced candidates for EU membership. Through the EU accession process, Montenegro is implementing comprehensive reforms in areas such as the judiciary, public administration, human rights, and the fight against corruption. These efforts not only improve its own society but also help extend European values and visions throughout the Western Balkans. Our commitment to dialogue and regional cooperation contributes to political stability, which is directly aligned with the EU’s interests.

5. What was it like to step into the European Parliament and take part in political simulations and debates?

Entering the European Parliament and participating in political simulations and debates was a truly special moment. It made me fully realize the importance of everything we were doing. Just being in a place where decisions that impact millions of lives are made, left a powerful impression on me. The idea that I, in some way, could contribute to improving the lives of European citizens was both inspiring and empowering. The experience showed me how essential dialogue, willingness to compromise, and clear argumentation are in any decision-making process.

6.How involved are young people and student in politics and democracy in Europe nowadays?

Many young people today feel distrust toward the political system, believing their voices aren’t heard and that they cannot influence change. However, the situation is gradually improving. There are growing numbers of European initiatives that give young people space to participate actively, engage in dialogue, and take action. During the political simulations in the European Parliament, I witnessed the dedication, seriousness, and enthusiasm of young people to contribute real proposals for improving life across the EU. It gave me hope that youth can indeed drive significant change. Still, to fully realize this potential, greater institutional support and clear mechanisms for inclusion in decision-making are essential. Young people want to be involved, they just need more space and support to ensure their voices are truly heard and considered.

7. Do you believe the EU is doing enough to promote multilingualism among young people?

I believe the EU is genuinely moving in the right direction when it comes to encouraging multilingualism among young people. While it’s true that languages such as English, German, and French dominate daily communication, there is a strong effort to promote the learning of other languages through various programs. Initiatives like Erasmus+ and activities led by European university alliances are great examples. These experiences not only help young people learn new languages but also foster deeper cultural understanding, something that is vital for a more connected and open Europe.

8.What were the key ideas or proposals that came out of your panel discussions?

Our panel discussions produced many concrete and valuable proposals, particularly in the areas of mental health, social media, climate change, and education. We agreed that young people need more support – both in terms of mental health awareness through education, prevention and content regulation on social platforms, and in lifelong learning opportunities.

My panel specifically focused on the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world. We also emphasized responsible use of artificial intelligence, proposing clear regulations to protect fundamental rights. Additionally, we discussed the importance of making higher education more accessible through affordable housing and better financial support for both national and international students. All recommendations aimed to create a Europe that better understands and meets the needs of its youth and all its citizens – where everyone feels included.

9. Were there any concrete solutions or disagreements that stood out to you?

All the recommendations had their merits, but I found the proposals from the mental health panel especially important. We are living in an era where social media is widespread, especially among young people and children. These platforms often project distorted realities, contributing to increasing anxiety and mental health issues. That’s why I believe proposals related to mental health, such as anti-stigma campaigns, greater access to professional support, and digital literacy education in schools, are especially important and timely.

10. What do you consider as the main challenges of public communication on EU?

One of the biggest challenges in public communication is the general lack of awareness about how EU institutions function and what specific initiatives they undertake. This knowledge gap is often filled by unverified or misleading information that circulates through media and social networks, distorting the public’s perception of the EU. In this context, the role of the media is crucial. Journalists have a responsibility to provide accurate, clear, and verified information. Quality journalism can help citizens better understand EU processes and feel more connected to them.

11. Did this event give you a clearer idea of how the EU works — or how it should work?

Absolutely. This experience gave me a much clearer and deeper understanding of how the EU operates in practice. While my studies at the Faculty of Economics in Podgorica gave me theoretical knowledge of European institutions and their competencies, witnessing it all firsthand, the decision-making process, the dynamics of voting, and the nature of dialogue, was invaluable. Hearing speeches from Members of the European Parliament and observing the discussions on vital issues was particularly inspiring. This event further strengthened my belief that Montenegro belongs in the European Union, a community that genuinely promotes and protects values such as freedom, equality, human dignity, and democracy.

12.What did you personally take away from the experience — intellectually and emotionally?

This experience enriched me tremendously, both intellectually and emotionally. I gained direct insight into the workings of the European Parliament, a deeper understanding of European institutions, their policies, and legislative processes.

At the same time, I felt how meaningful it is when young people are given a platform to contribute to shaping a shared European future with their ideas. I especially value the friendships and network I built with peers from across Europe. That exchange of ideas, perspectives, and cultures will leave a lasting impression. I believe this experience will open many professional opportunities for me, and will further encourage my commitment to democratic values and international cooperation.

About Ulysseus

Ulysseus is one of the 64 European Universities selected by the European Commission to become the universities of the future. Led by the University of Seville, the Alliance encompasses other seven universities in Europe: the University of Genoa, Italy; Université Côte d’Azur, France; the Technical University of Košice, Slovakia; MCI | The Entrepreneurial School®, Austria; Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Finland, the University of Münster, Germany, and the University of Montenegro, Montenegro.