We extend our gratitude to the representatives and organisations at the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and various associations who warmly welcomed us for meetings during this year’s International Study Trip, now in its third year. 

During our visits to Strasbourg and Brussels, we had the opportunity to engage with policymakers, discuss pressing issues, and explore potential areas for collaboration. These discussions offered valuable insights into European perspectives on our shared concerns and helped strengthen our network with key stakeholders in the field of human rights and civil society.

The study trip had an impact on the young human rights defenders (HRDs) and students who participated, offering them first-hand exposure to international human rights mechanisms and European institutions. Engaging directly with policymakers and experts in Strasbourg and Brussels deepened their understanding of advocacy on a global scale and equipped them with new strategies to apply in their own work. 

22nd October, Tuesday

Council of Europe

After gaining detailed insights into the Council of Europe’s purpose, activities, sanctions, founding and member countries, and overall operations, we visited the hall where the Committee of Ministers meets and had the opportunity to ask questions. 

We held a discussion with Cem Dolar, who specialises in the enforcement of ECtHR decisions, starting with an overview of the enforcement process and then focusing on cases related to Turkey.

Meeting with the EIN [European Implementation Network]

During our meeting with the EIN, which actively works to support the implementation of ECtHR decisions, the students asked both technical and political questions regarding EIN’s work and the sample cases presented to us.

23rd October, Wednesday

Nacho Sánchez Amor

After visiting the European Parliament in Strasbourg, we met with Nacho Sanchez Amor, a Member of the European Parliament and the rapporteur for Turkey. Following an in-depth discussion on Turkey’s accession process to the European Union and recent developments in the country, the students had the opportunity to ask Nacho Sanchez Amor several questions regarding Turkey-EU relations. 

Ivan Hortal Sanchez

During another meeting at the European Parliament, we spoke with Ivan Hortal Sanchez, the foreign affairs advisor for the Greens, about the Green Group’s current political initiatives and perspectives on Turkey. The students engaged by asking him about the Green Group’s stance on global developments and a variety of specific issues.

Strasbourg University 

We had the opportunity to visit the campus of Strasbourg University, where we met and conversed with students. This exchange allowed students to share their university experiences and gain insight into the French higher education system through discussions with their peers at Strasbourg University. 

24th October, Thursday

IFJ [International Federation of Journalists]

After a briefing on the activities of the IFJ at their Brussels office, we engaged in a discussion on press freedom and journalists’ rights in Turkey. We highlighted how students, often portrayed negatively in mainstream media, are stepping into roles as citizen journalists. We also introduced unises.net, a platform we created for students to publish their own news and articles, and received valuable feedback on this initiative. 

EYF [European Youth Forum]

Our meeting with the EYF at their premises offered valuable insights into the structure and work of their organisation. Additionally, we had the chance to exchange views on the challenges and efforts facing youth movements in both Turkey and Europe.

25th October, Friday

Aykut Garipoğlu, Freedom House

We had the opportunity to speak with Aykut Garipoğlu from Freedom House, where we discussed the students’ experiences and reflections from the international study trip in depth. During the conversation, Aykut Garipoğlu shared insights on the importance of international exposure for young people involved in human rights advocacy. He emphasised how such study trips contribute to broadening perspectives, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and enhancing the practical skills essential for effective human rights work. 

Euro-Med Rights 

During our meeting with Euro-Med Rights at their offices, we gained insight into their work and their involvement in Turkey and the Middle East. We also engaged in a discussion on how to foster a more human rights-friendly environment in Turkey. 

EED [European Endowment for Democracy]

The final meeting of our Study Trip was held with the EED, an organisation dedicated to providing financial support to newly established groups and organisations, particularly those focused on democracy, to help them operate effectively and ensure long-term sustainability. Following an in-depth briefing on the EED’s mission and activities, the student activists engaged actively, posing a series of questions about the specific processes involved in establishing an association, as well as practical steps for securing funding. This meeting provided valuable information on how emerging organisations can navigate challenges and access resources essential for their growth and impact.