12 May – Elena Gjika in Prishtinë/Priština

“What does Europe mean to you?”

Robert Wilton, Political Advisor from the ICO, gave a lecture today at elementary school Elena Gjika in Prishtinë/Priština. He first asked the students what they knew about Europe and the European Union, and together they tried to make the list of all member states.

Then, with the help of the students, Robert Wilton explained the main characteristics of the European Union. He first insisted on the importance of diversity and richness of the EU, as there are 27 member states and more than 150 regional languages. Then explained what the core values of the European Union are, such as peace, freedom and justice.

Students were eager to participate in the discussion and proved to know a lot about Europe.  Robert Wilton reminded them of the history of the Union, from the Schuman declaration in 1950 and the first Treaty in 1957 to the current integrated internal market, where freedom of movement is essential.

About Kosovo and the European Union, Robert Wilton stressed that it is a long and complicated process to integrate the EU, as there are many technical aspects to care for.  A discussion followed about the criteria that candidate countries must fulfill before they can join the EU. Students also gave their opinion on the development of Kosovo and its European perspective.