Political scientist talks about the development of the European Union

Prof Henri Ménudier is an expert on Franco-German relations and Europe. He gave a lecture in the morning at St-Georg-Gymnasium and in the evening in the council chamber of the historic town hall in Bocholt. The events "FÜR EUROPA WÄHLEN - Deutschland, Frankreich und die Europawahl am 9. Juni 2024" were supported by the state initiative Europa-Schecks of the Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and Head of the State Chancellery.

Around 200 pupils from St Georg Grammar School first listened to Professor Henri Ménudier's comprehensive lecture before taking part in a discussion moderated by the pupils. The organisers, the Franco-German Society and EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt, welcomed around 35 interested people to the Council Chamber.

The topic

The speaker outlined the development of the European Union from its beginnings to the present day and emphasised the advantages for citizens in Europe. He explained that it was not just about economic interests, but also about respecting values such as human dignity, democracy and the rule of law. Furthermore, there had not been a war between the countries of the EU since the Second World War. This value is present due to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.

It was important to Prof. Ménudier to emphasise that Franco-German relations are good despite some news to the contrary. Above all, the citizens of both countries respected each other and there were many friendly relations - not least through the town twinning programmes.

Ménudier urged people to use the European elections to make their voices heard and thus influence political decisions. He would be happy to visit Bocholt again.

The speaker

Professor Ménudier is a recognised expert on Franco-German relations in Europe and German politics after 1945 and has taught at both renowned French and German universities. He is strongly committed to youth exchange, for example through the Franco-German Youth Organisation, and to Franco-German partnerships.

About the EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt

EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt is part of the mayor's office of the city of Bocholt and is the local contact point for questions relating to the European Union. Its task is to provide local citizens with information, advice, help and answers to questions about Europe. In addition, EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt aims to promote European involvement and provide information on current European political events.