A Journalist’s Reflection from Within the Brussels Bubble

It is no secret that the ongoing conflict in Gaza has given the European youth yet another reason to be disillusioned with the European Union—what it stands for and what it offers. One evasive speech after another and failure to address the concerns many people have been raising—whether from European leaders or EU institution officials—have been focal points in highlighting the limitations of the EU.

As a supranational body with undeniable influence in contemporary politics and society, the EU’s actions and inactions can, and should, be subject to critique. This article is a reflection on the multiple aspects that make up our view of the EU, both the good and bad, through the lens of my experience as a journalist at the Youth4Regions Journalism program which took place in early October in Brussels.

Attending the Youth4Regions program offered a unique opportunity to peek inside the Brussels bubble—a glimpse into the “capital” where many decisions impacting EU citizens are made. It also allowed me to observe the often-overlooked backbone of EU policies: Cohesion Policy. Upon first glance, I admit, it seemed mundane and bureaucratic; however, listening to experts from the Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy, including Commissioner Elisa Ferreira, revealed its significance. 

EU Cohesion Policy is the primary investment policy of the EU; it aims to contribute to sustainable development, economic growth, job creation and overall improved quality of life for EU citizens. It is fundamental in funding local initiatives, driving balanced growth, innovation and social progress across often overlooked and marginalized regions within the EU. The policy is crucial for bridging gaps between regions, ensuring that even those underdeveloped can share in growth and opportunity.

My experience at Youth4Regions went beyond just understanding policy. It prompted me to reflect on the role of the EU itself, as an important, even essential, institution in today’s world. In the post-materialistic society many young Europeans live in, it is easy to take certain things for granted—freedom of movement across borders, economic benefits, educational opportunities, scholarships, free workshops and programs like Youth4Regions. These benefits are so interwoven with our daily lives that their value often goes unnoticed, but failing to recognize their value poses its own danger: disengagement. Political participation, particularly from young people, is critical in sustaining the very processes that create these opportunities.

This is by no means a pro-EU propaganda piece, even though this program was in fact fully funded. Rather, I aim to highlight that while the EU has many faults, it plays a critical role in shaping the present and future of its citizens, and we ought to be critically engaged, to ensure that its institutions reflect our values and aspirations. Moreover, it highlighted the invaluable role of journalists in this constructive feedback loop.

Journalists, the torchbearers of democracy, carry the flame of freedom of expression, illuminating political realities, and in doing so, empowering an informed citizenry. The Youth4Regions program deepened my appreciation for this role, as I sat in on two daily newsroom briefings in the European Commission Press Room, listening to journalists’ critical questions on key global issues. While it was frustrating to hear some of the Commission’s evasive responses, this delicate balancing act seems to serve the EU’s efforts to maintain harmony between its member states and their diplomatic relations.

This balancing act, however, shouldn’t escape public critique. This is where a journalist's role becomes indispensable. They are key pillars in upholding the platform for public involvement by allowing citizens to be informed and therefore use their voices to push for change. By posing tough questions and cutting through evasive political discourse, journalists help keep institutions such as those of the EU accountable, and help bridge the gap between politics and the public.

Beyond these reflections, I must highlight the workshops, which were a standout feature of the program. The most memorable sessions were led by Dutch journalist Wytse Vellinga, whose workshops delved into the ethics of journalism, investigative reporting, and the craft of storytelling. These sessions not only enhanced my understanding of the journalistic process but also beckoned us to consider vital ethical questions in the field. The case studies presented, followed by peer discussions, emphasized the need for integrity and accuracy, especially when reporting on complex political issues. Finally, we explored online tools, equipping us with practical skills for navigating the evolving media landscape in modern journalism.

The program also offered us visits to prominent media organizations such as Euronews, providing insights into their operations and offering another opportunity to engage with professionals in the field. However, the most lasting highlight for me is the network of young journalists I met. Coming from all sorts of different backgrounds and levels of experience, the young journalists I met inspired and motivated me. These new connections showed me once again the crucial role journalists have in society, strengthening my resolve to contribute to the field with even greater responsibility. The Youth4Regions program has been an important stepping stone in my evolving journey as a young journalist, Political Sciences student and EU citizen.