UEF Participation at the Louise Weiss Academy 2026
From 2 to 5 July 2025, the second edition of the Louise Weiss Academy brought together young participants, researchers, diplomats, decision-makers and civil society representatives at the Château des Rohan in Saverne, France.
Organised by the European Movement – France, the Young Europeans – France and the Union of European Federalists, the international summer school was dedicated to the study of peace, European unity and federalism. Through workshops, conferences and discussions, participants explored how the ideas that inspired Europe’s founding generation can contribute to addressing today’s political and democratic challenges.
UEF President Domènec Ruiz Devesa, former Member of the European Parliament, took part in the final day of the Academy. He contributed to the closing session, entitled “Federalist Voices: How Can We Take Action Today for a European Federation?”
During the session, Ruiz Devesa addressed the importance of renewed political and civic engagement in advancing the federalist project. His intervention highlighted the continuing relevance of European federalism as a response to the challenges facing Europe, as well as the need to involve new generations in building a more democratic, sovereign and united Europe.
The closing discussion provided participants with an opportunity to reflect on practical ways to become involved in the federalist movement and to continue the work of figures such as Louise Weiss and the pioneers of European integration.
Named after the French journalist, intellectual, feminist and European activist Louise Weiss, the Academy pays tribute to her commitment to peace, human rights, democracy and European unity. The initiative combines an intergenerational and international approach, encouraging participants from different backgrounds to exchange ideas and develop new forms of engagement.
The Louise Weiss Academy is organised with the support of local, regional, national and European partners, including the City of Saverne, the Grand Est Region, the City and Eurometropolis of Strasbourg, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in France and the University of Strasbourg.
