Last Day In Berlin

Ein Himmel über Berlin

By Jon Wright -
Blog Entry III
It is sad to say that our trip, at least the business portion, is drawing to an end. Before I delve into the details that encompassed the day I have to say this trip was by far the most culturally and intellectually "enlightening" trip that I have been on in a while. I definitely recommend, if it is financially feasible, to study abroad. Not only do you get the chance to stimulate yourself in an environment much different than your own, but you get to meet students that have similar interests and aspirations.

With that out of the way our day began by meeting with Dr. Kirsten Westphal who elaborated on Germany’s growing dependency on Russia's natural gas. Dr Westphal discussed the various global and security issues that Germany deals with, such as the large share of gross gas supply in Germany coming from Russia which further stresses the notion of maintaining a positive relationship with Russia ensuring them as a reliable main gas provider. After a lengthy discussion with Dr. Westphal, we were met by Dr. Muriel Asseburg and her associate. 

In my personal opinion this was the most interesting lecture of the trip as we received an inside look on German relations with the Middle East. I must admit I was taken back by the nature of the discussion because, unfortunately, I only have a minimal understanding of the current conflicts within Egypt, Yemen, Libya, etc. Our lecturers provided us with a very elaborate overview. 

Lastly our meeting with Dr. Maria Rotter was somewhat more relaxed than our previous meetings however a nice change of pace from a week flooded with more than informative lectures and meetings. With Dr. Rotter we discussed German and French relations along with Germany’s position on the European Agenda as a whole.

In retrospect I was a little afraid of the possibility of culture shock upon arrival but as the week went on it was a lot easier to integrate within the society than I thought. I am more than appreciative of the warm, receptive nature of all of our speakers and am sincerely thankful to Old Dominion University, Dr, Karp, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, and any others that helped make this trip possible.

Berlin

Politics, the Transatlantic Relationship and Fathers' Rights

Rachel Casey - Blog Entry III 

                Today was our first full day in Berlin. Yesterday was a long busy day of travel so today, while filled with meetings, was a nice change of pace. It was nice to begin our day with a bus tour of Berlin. I would have liked to do a walking tour, but Berlin is far too large, plus it was nice to have a day off my feet.

We ended our tour of the city at the Akademie der Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung where we had our first meeting, which was a lunch dialogue with Thomas Habicht. I enjoyed having a discussion with a journalist. Talking to politicians can be informative, but I feel like their answers can sometimes be a little broad. This is why the discussion with Habicht was refreshing. I believe journalists are after truths, instead of things which back up their own political agenda. We discussed the current political situation in Germany which included points on energy, NATO issues, issues between Berlin and Washington, the demographic problems of Germany and the problems encountered while reuniting Germany.

I enjoyed that he discussed the differences in personality between Obama and Merkel, and not just their policies. I most enjoyed his historical discussion on the reunification of Germany and the mental and political gaps that they have had to face. He pointed out that West Germany never thought of itself as something that needed to change, but only made a list of demands for those areas under former Soviet control to change. He said in the minds of many there was only a one way road for reconstruction and that that road was something that may have hindered the process.

Following this meeting we had a meeting with Parliament member Peter Beyer at the Bundestag. While waiting to enter the building we encountered a protesting man and decided to ask him about his cause. He said he was fighting for fathers’ rights in Germany and that he had two children he was only allowed to see once every two weeks. I did some research later that evening and as it turns out fathers’ rights are extremely limited in Germany. I learned that a child can only be German if the mother is German.

The meeting with Beyer was interesting and we discussed the trans-Atlantic relationship between Germany and the U.S. It seems to Beyer that there seem to be signals from Obama which point at a desire to strengthen U.S. and German ties. After the meeting we got to visit the Kuppel which gave us a panoramic view of the city of Berlin. We finished the day with dinner at Lindenbrau which was kindly paid for by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung foundation.

Berlin

A Deeper Understanding…

By Jon Wright - Blog Entry II

From an American standpoint it is very interesting to get an inside view of the German perspective regarding the current financial crisis that plagues the European Union. Prior to our visit to the Federal Finance Ministry I was very interested in hearing proposals to help shed light on the ambiguity that shrouds the recent the Euro Crisis. Our lecturer began by enlightening our group on the difficulty of governing a multitude of different cultures under a single monetary structure and how difficulties regarding this concept have resulted in the need for reform. 

Surprisingly enough, the solutions provided seemed to only temporarily sustain the problem. Because the United States has been unified under the dollar since the Coinage Act of 1792 I feel as though many Americans don’t really take the time to consider the complexities surrounding the Eurozone and the difficulties of maintaining economic security when member nations inappropriately mismanage funds (i.e. Greece, Spain, Ireland etc.).

The lack of leadership due to the stigma left behind after World War II in relation to Germany became very evident throughout the week but no more so than on this visit.

The next meeting by far was the best part of the day for me.  Our meeting with the Chairman of the Foreign Policy Commission really made me thankful for deciding to go on this trip. The fact that he took the time out of his busy schedule to discuss The German Foreign Policy Agenda with us really reflected the benefits of studying abroad. It was interesting to hear the direction he wanted Germany to take regarding its relationship with Russia, and China.

Our last two meetings with Dr. Henning Riecke a specialist in German foreign policy and Dr. Joachim Bertele, who specializes in German and Russian affairs, really reaffirmed the general consensus of Germany needing to take a more prominent role in the European Union affairs abroad.  Today really made me feel like taking a much more active role in our on political structure. To hear these experts speak about the problems of their own country and constantly trying to find ways to improve its condition was truly enlightening.           

Berlin

Last Day in Berlin

by Raymond Jean-Paul Webster - Blog II

Two weeks does not do Europe justice; I’m amazed with all the history and culture that is in Berlin. The people here have been very welcoming and the weather couldn’t have been better. After a long week of meetings our group got to enjoy the city of Berlin during our free day. Our first stop took place at the Pergamon museum. Inside are remains of many reconstructed buildings, and works of art imported from Turkey and the rest of the Middle East. I was completely amazed by the age of some of the architecture and how difficult it must have been transporting these large delicate pieces.

After we left the museum we found that there was a street closed off for local merchants. There we found vendors selling books, art, jewelry, and even military regalia. It was nice to find something like this other than your average tourist souvenir store; I still bought a couple Berlin buddy bears.

There could have been a hundred other tourist spots to visit in Berlin, instead my good friend Thibaut and I just took the long walk back from the Bundestag and enjoyed the nice German weather.

Our day is coming to an end, we’re all reflecting the great conversations we had and the many people we met along the way. Berlin is a fantastic city, I’ve only heard great things about it and I’m glad I got to experience it for myself. I’m already planning for my next visit to Berlin; maybe it’ll be a one-way trip!

Berlin

Germany and Russia - The New Dimensions of an Old Relationship

By Silvia Brigido - Blog Entry II


Our theme for the day was on the German financial system, its international interactions and focus on their partnership with Russia.  Therefore, it was quite fitting that the day started at the German Financial Ministry building, a piece of architecture that reflects the many stages of the history of Germany’s governmental development.  The building itself started out as the first Prussian Ministry of War and later held great significance during the Third Reich when it was utilized by the Nazi Air Force specifically due to its unique aerial view.  After the fall of the Nazi regime in 1945, the Soviet forces took over the building and used it as an administrative center to the German Democratic Republic (GDR), as it sits just outside of where the Berlin wall divided the socialist east from the capitalist west.  Today it stands as the symbol of Germany’s strength, its stable financial system and role of economic leader to the European Union.  Just as appropriately, the day ended with a visit to the German Federal Chancellery building, the Bundeskanzleramt, which holds the seat of the Federal Government.  

As our meetings with Mr. Klein (from the Financial Ministry), Mr. Ruprecht Polenz MP (the chair of the Foreign Policy Commission of the German Parliament), Dr. Henning Riecke (of the German Society of Foreign Policy), and Dr. Joachim Bertele (staff of the German Chancellery) reflected the topics of foreign security policies and the financial cooperation between Germany and Russia, the significance of the two aforementioned pieces of architecture became increasingly clear: not only for Germany but for the shifting of policies toward cooperation among nations. 

It is interesting to see that, despite the strained historical relationship between Germany and Russia, they now seem to have a quite dependent working relationship, mainly bonded by energy supplies of natural gas.  Since Germany is phasing out its use of nuclear power as a source of energy, in the attempt to utilize safer and more efficient forms of energy, they have become increasingly dependent on the Russian supply of natural gas.  However, this is a bilateral dependency since Russia benefits greatly from the much needed foreign investments to further develop their energy infrastructure. This is a win-win situation in which each nation gains from the relationship.  That is, Russia has abundant natural resources while Germany has none to speak of, and Germany has the funds and technology that Russia lacks.  Due to this interdependent relationship some say that the safety of Germany is not compromised since Russia is not considered a perceived threat unless Russia may chose to combine strengths with China.  Yet, I cannot help but feel that while Germany is a strong promoter of democratization of nations and supports human rights, they seem to give Russian government a more lenient approach due to such dependency on their energy sources. Yet, Dr. Bertele says that this is not the case and Germany participates in dialogues that reflect their criticism of  Russia’s internal governmental policies.   

When one reflects on the history of relations between Germany (what was once the Kingdom of Prussia) and the Russian Empire, which goes as far back as 1721, it is quite interesting to see how its has reached its position of today.  The two powers fought on opposing sides of significant wars of that time and it wasn’t until the signing of the Treaty of Saint Petersburg, in 1762, that they became allies (this partnership was especially significant during the Napoleonic wars).  However, after the unification of the Germanic states and the rise of the German Empire in 1871 the relationship between the two powers became strained due to Prussia itself playing a lesser role in the new Empire.  Skipping ahead, after the fall of the Nazi regime, the Soviet forces took over the eastern side of the capital Berlin and had  shaped communist East Germany.  The city, which was divided by a wall, housed two extremely opposite governments and societies. Finally, in 1989, the Berlin wall came down and gave way to not only a new Germany, but a new Europe. With the rise of a financially prosperous Germany and the end of the Soviet Union new doors opened for a more  diplomatic relationship between these strong powers.

Berlin

Berlin - a City of the Past and the Future

By John Callahan - Blog Entry III

Its now been a week since my last entry, and the focus of our visit to Europe has dramatically changed from a regional to a National Focus. Leaving Brussels, we travelled to Dusseldorf, capital of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, and then on the German national capital at Berlin.

Since Berlin is one of my favorite cities, visiting is always more than a pleasure. The layers upon layers of history here give one plenty to contemplate, and yet the city is still moving forward. Berlin itself lies in the former East German and Prussian province of Brandenburg, and, contrary to expectations, is nearing bankruptcy. This was illustrated starkly by a discussion I had last night with friends in Prenzlauer Berg, an area far outside tourist zones in the former east. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, billions were spent on modernizing this and other areas across the east. However, little has been done since then to maintain the infrastructure and beauty of the outlying areas, because there simply is no money. Areas like the once central Kurfurstendamm seem to be in a state of slow decay. Of course one hopes that this does not continue.

The level of access to German leaders has impressed me greatly. From Parliamentary leaders such as the head of the Bundestag’s Foreign Relations committee to access into the offices of the German Chancellor and the Ministry of Finance, we have been truly fortunate in who we have met and what we have seen. One topic mentioned frequently and about which I had heretofore heard nothing, is a proposed North Atlantic Free Trade area. This idea fascinates me, and I plan to write about it as my valedictory paper for the course that this European visit contributes to.

We wrapped up the substantive portion of the trip today with a visit to the Foundation for Political Research, located in the Wilmersdorf Section of the City. The Presentations dealt with Germany’s complex raw materials relationship with Russia as well as German involvement and interest in the Arab Spring movement which has swept the middle east since spring 2011. German Russian Relations were quite accurately described as being interdependent, since Russia has a relatively small number of buyers for its oil, and is dependent on them for revenues.

Our final speaker was back at the Adenauer Foundation head office. A representative of the European Affairs Committee of the Bundestag spoke on a wide range of issues surrounding Germany’s role in the European Union.

As the trip comes to an end, we have a free day tomorrow in Berlin, followed by a flight home and a sad return to normal life!

Berlin

Berlin ist mehr ein Weltteil als eine Stadt - Berlin is a part of the world rather than just a city

By Thibaut Hugueny - Blog Entry III

Our last stop of our European journey started on Wednesday May 23^rd in Berlin, which displayed its monuments under a sunny blue sky.
My prior assumptions about the coldness of the German land disappeared as soon as the bus put in motion. The pleasant impression of the previous day was confirmed; German people are as welcoming as its capital city. The first impression of any experience often conditions a future perception, and my perception about the “country across the Rhine” could not have started in a better way.
The tour of the city made me think that Berlin made peace with its post-war(s) sorrows - and found joy. Indeed, this city is nothing like the city depicted as the center of a world, traumatized by a conflict that vastly exceeded its borders. Berlin is a city resolutely established in the present, without rejecting its past. Modern architecture rests close to its  vestige of the past. The "responsibility to memory" seems to be the driving force for its  development. 
Due to its painful past, Germany inherited one of the strongest determinations and political wills for democracy. No country in the world is more "obsessed" with democracy than Germany. Following the city tour, we had the pleasure to discuss the political situation in Germany with Mr. Thomas Habicht, a journalist working for leading newspapers in Germany for many decades. The center of the discussion touched many topics. 
His vast knowledge of not only the German society but also its political and cultural nuances were impressive. Personally, this meeting allowed me to dispel my last reticence about a country that rivaled my country for the longest time. In France, one's  childhood is consistently influenced by the history taught in classrooms. When I was a kid, I watched movies where Germans were portrayed as Nazis, and when I invented stories with toy soldiers, the bad guys were always German. Subconsciously, I guess it played a role on my apprehension toward Germany.
I would have liked to talk to Mr. Habicht for longer because our discussion forced me to reconsider many of my prior assumptions. The last meeting of the day occurred in the Paul-Lobe-Haus with Peter Beyer, member of the German Bundestag. Even though the discussion was about important topics, my head was filled by thoughts resulted of the previous meeting. While all the meetings provided me with knowledge about European issues, Mr. Habicht allowed me to think beyond my preconceptions.
The magnificence of Berlin and people like Mr. Habicht created a link between Germany and me. The young boy I was at seven would probably consider this as treachery/disloyalty, but like Berlin, I turned the page. 

Berlin - The Cultural and Political Heart of Germany - and Europe??



At the Konrad-Adenauer Foundation

At the Finance Ministry, Berlin.

Der Reichstag

Düsseldorf - Democratic Symbolism in Design

Thomas Ricard Blog 3 – Düsseldorf

                The parliamentary building in Düsseldorf, Germany, is an incredibly symbolic and impressive piece of architecture, situated on the beautiful Rhine River.  It seemed all nuances of the building were designed for its symbolic character.  Ultimately, the majority of the planning put into the architecture of the building is done to show that all members of the legislature are equal, and that they are responsible to the people who elected them into office.  These are a few of many ideas that appear to be ingrained in the German mindset, and the cause of which seems to lead back to the Second World War

Being able to speak with the vice president of the prior regional government (recent elections removed his party from the office of President and Vice President) was a rare and inspiring opportunity.  Listening to his story of how he grew up in a blue collar family and eventually became Vice President of the regional legislature is quite amazing.  On top of everything, he has a major in physics and started a company shortly after college. 

                One of the topics covered was the German military and how armies across Europe are downsizing.  The German military is very small compared to that of the United States, and is still downsizing like many others within the EU (European Union.)  From the way the German Navy was described, it sounds as if it’s only large enough to enforce territorial waters.  The reason for having a small army and continuously downsizing seems to be a consequence of World War II: ultimately to help prevent World War III. Originally, the purpose of the EU was to connect the economies of its members to prevent another World War as well.  However, I’m sure the world won’t complain about extra security measures.  Downsizing armies helps save some tax Euros as well.

Düsseldorf - The 21st Century Germany

Inside the Landtag Nordrhein-Westfalen

  

Düsseldorf - The Postmodern and New Germany

By Raymond Webster - Blog Entry I

I think I can speak for the rest of the group in saying that Europe has been very welcoming throughout our trip. Our last night in Brussels came too soon and it was hard to believe the halfway point to the trip has already passed. Our day started very early having to be up and ready to go at 07:30. I know it was an exhausting transition from one city to another but it all paid off once we arrived in the Düsseldorf. I feel I can’t speak enough about how impressed I was with not only the city but the architecture as well. Dr. Martin Michalzik gave the group a tour of the Landtag as well as the philosophy and artful design behind the building. The entire building consists of circles and glass to reflect the interconnectivity and transparency of the parliament. I was very impressed with the symbolism of the building as well as the works of art within. Once we completed our tour of the Landtag, we had a discussion over lunch with Dr. Michael Brinkmeier. He was kind enough to give us his time to share his experiences in the Landtag as well as the inner workings of the Parliament. We learned that the political system, like the European Union, is a complex organization that balances many actors. It was an enlightening experience and was only the beginning of what turned out to be a series of incredible discussions during our stay in Germany.

Once we left the Landtag, we travelled along the Rhine to visit E.ON AG, the leading German alternative energy company. We had a wonderful opportunity in hearing from multiple lecturers discussing the impact of energy, the future of energy needs, and the alternatives to accompany them. After the lectures we had the opportunity to visit the market floor; I couldn’t help but be amazed with the level of multitasking the workers are able to achieve.

After a long day of travelling, we finally arrived in Berlin. This was the groups’ first day in Germany as well as my first time on German soil. Prior to arriving in Europe, I’ve been practicing my German for close to six month and was looking forward to the opportunity to finally speak German to someone. I ordered some food successfully and every now and then I’m able to understand a passing conversation or an advertisement on the street. Most of those who I have talked to were kind enough to slow down their speech and repeat themselves upon my request. I’m still looking to improve and hope to have more conversations during my stay. Each day in Berlin has been better than the last; I can’t wait to see what is in store for tomorrow.

NATO's New Role As A Global Actor

by Rachel Casey - Blog Entry II 

Today was quite a busy day following a long and relaxing day in Paris. The day was filled with meetings including one at NATO Shape, one with the European People’s Party and finally dinner and a lecture with Dr. Stefan Gehrold, the Head of the European Office at Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung. The first lecture at NATO SHAPE was given by Colonel N.H. Johansen, who provided a general overview of NATO’s structure, its purpose, and some of its current missions. It was a good background that prepared us for our next speaker Major Ed Hardy. MAJ Hardy provided us with information on exactly what is done at SHAPE. At Shape they determine minimum capability requirements, which include both quantitative and qualitative lists along with priority shortfalls. They play an integral role in NATO’s Defense Planning Process. While I was too nervous to ask a question to MAJ Hardy during the meeting, I did get a chance to talk with him during lunch. I was interested in the measures that were being taken by NATO to prepare for potential cyber terrorism. It seems that NATO sees this as something important, but they are struggling with adding it into their policy but that they have set it up, and that it is something that should come up at the Chicago Summit, and as it turns out it did. There was also a later round table discussion that focused on NATO’s shift towards smart defense and a decrease on U.S. reliance. This too was discussed at the summit. I like that NATO is trying to get more members to contribute more capabilities so that the U.S. can stop bearing the majority of the burden. At the EPP we discussed multiple topics but I was most interested in the party’s perspective on the EURO crisis. We heard about the implications of a return to national currencies. Germany would end up suffering because the value of their currency would be so high that no one would be able to trade with them and southern countries such as Greece, would suffer massive inflation. Even if they wanted out, at this point pulling out would be devastating to all sides. We ended the evening with dinner and a lecture from Dr. Stefan Gehrold, who discussed the origins and the purpose of the foundation, which was initially to train Germany in democracy after the failure of it to take hold during the Weimar Republic. The foundation now has foreign offices open in over 100 countries which support about 200 programs, which help educate people around the world on the process of democracy.

NATO - Between Today and Tomorrow's Challenges

by Danielle Silas Blog 2 

Despite being our last day in Brussels, Monday was packed with meetings. The group woke early and headed to the train station to where we caught a train to Mons; the train ride was fairly quick, though several of us caught a few more minutes of rest on the way. When we arrived at the station, we were picked up by and driven to NATO/SHAPE (Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe) by several members of the attaché. After clearing security, we headed onto the grounds and prepared for the morning’s meetings with a cup of coffee (or two). First up on the schedule was a morning full of meetings, the first of which was a Command Briefing by LTC Niels Johansen of Denmark. The briefing introduced an organizational and operational framework to NATO, and summarized the evolution of NATO from its initial to present role in global politics. Afterwards, we discussed the NATO Defense Planning Process (NDPP) with MAJ Ed Hardy of the U.S., a process which he identified as harmonizing the alliances and capabilities of NATO members. This presentation was quite helpful in identifying one aspect of the evolution of NATO as described by LTC Johansen. MAJ Hardy explained how NATO Defense Planning is currently shifting from individual to cooperative initiatives towards developing and identifying the capabilities of NATO members, which is a result of the ongoing global economic pressures that favors prioritization and smart defense. Lastly, the group met with Brigadier General Richard Lauren at a round table discussion during which we were able to ask questions concerning current NATO operations and future prospects. The meetings with NATO/SHAPE helped to promote greater understanding of the changing role of the alliance and how this development would impact the United States, particularly with regard to our participation and contributions to the coalition. After a morning of intense dialogue, we headed back to Brussels, where we had two more sessions in the evening. First, we met with Deputy Secretary General Christian Kremer of the European People’s Party, which is currently the largest transnational party of Europe. After visiting the European Parliament and Commission earlier the previous week, it was beneficial to see how political parties were organized and how they operated within the European Union system. Being composed of numerous national political parties, the European People’s Party (which would align more closely with the Democratic Party in the United States), was tasked with the challenge of finding common ground based upon its Christian Democratic principles despite the various cultural and ideological diversity of its members. Notwithstanding this mission, the party is able to lobby its agenda quite impressively, as suggested by its majority status in the European Council, European Commission and European Parliament. During the last meeting on Monday, we met with Dr. Stefan Gehrold, the Head of the European Office at Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, which was just a short walk from our previous meeting. There, Dr. Gehrold described the mission of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, an international, non-profit think-tank. After outlining the history, organization, current works, and goals of the organization, we concluded the session with a dialogue about the current challenges of the European and prospects for streamlining the institutions in order to more adequately reach the objectives of peace and democracy within the community.

To the City of Love

By Danielle Silas
Our day trip to Paris began early Sunday morning. After eating breakfast, the group headed out towards the train station where we gathered our tickets, and to our surprise, Sabine had managed to upgrade our seats to first-class (at no extra charge!). We departed the station around 8:40 A.M. and began the hour long ride to the City of Love.

We arrived at the Parisian train station approximately 10:00 A.M. and caught the subways to the Champs-Elysées Quarter. As soon as we ascended the steps out of the metro station, the Grand Arc de Triomphe stood before us. This striking monument, built by Napoleon in 1806, stands 164 ft. tall. Through engravings which are marked on every façade of the structure, the Arc de Triomphe commemorates heroic French battle victories. After view the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a shrine to a WWI victim in the center of the arch, we climbed to the top of the arch. The climb (which Dr. Karp counted as 195 steps), has everyone breathless by the time we reached the top, but the long climb was well worth the exertion. The panoramic view of Paris was magnificent, even despite the lingering fog. From one direction, we could see the Eiffel Tower off in the distance, while from other directions we could see several important and historical buildings. After viewing the Parisian skyline, we descended the steps and headed towards the subway.

We rode the subway to the Ile de la Cité, and situated n the middle of the city was the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Although we were not able to tour the inside of the cathedral due to time constraints and a very, very long line, we were able to take picture and admire the amazing craftsmanship of the gothic style church. Build in 1334, the entrance of the Cathedral was elaborately detailed with Biblical scenes, above which were the symbolic towers upon which the famous gargoyles perched.

We continued our trek through the city, stopping momentarily to get coffee in a Parisian café. After winding through the city streets, we found our way to the Musée du Louvre, which is the world’s largest museum. Though the massive building was once a royal palace, today it is home to famous artwork like the Glass Pyramid, which is visible from the outside, in addition to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. We were unable to tour the huge museum due in part to its sheer size, but also due to time constraints, but we did take a leisurely stroll thought the museum’s gardens.

The visit to Paris, brief as it was, was a great experience. Personally, it was inspiring to be in a city full of such a rich and vibrant history. Around every corner, there was evidence of this grand and cultured society, from the numerous monuments and striking statues to the grand architectural structures scattered around the city. The trip was most effective in expressing the timeless quality of Paris, which is an understanding that I believe that we all gained from our experiences. The trip, while brief, was memorable and impressive enough, that I believe many of us (if not all), hope to return and to more fully experience as much as the city has to offer.

Americans in Paris

 

La Ville de l'Amour

by Rachel Casey - Blog Entry I 
Our train to Paris departed at 8:36 AM Sunday morning. The forecast called for rain all afternoon and I was feeling quite disheartened by it, but there was still hope that Paris would live up to the expectations I had set upon it. The city of love, a place where one could wander with one's love aimlessly, see the sights or just be. The city is a collection of the great history of France. After navigating our way out of the Gard-Nord we rode le metro á l’arc de triomphe. The Arc de Triomphe is a monument that celebrates the battle victories of Napoleon. From the top of the Arc one has a panoramic view of the city. Although it was an overcast, foggy day the view was still amazing. After another train ride, this time with some musical entertainment, we arrived at the station prés de Notre Dame. A walk down a busy street brought us to the front of the twelfth century cathedral, which is not only architecturally stunning, but also viewed as the heart of Paris. While the lines were too long to visit the inside of Notre Dame, it was still a sight worth seeing and it put us close to two famous Parisian cafés, Café des Flores et les Deux Magots. We ended up stopping at another café where I had a latte and moelleux au chocolat and sat and watched people pass by. Following a brief walk in the rain to Napoleons Tomb we came upon le Louvre. While the lines were too long to enter the building, I was able to see the famous Pyramid, built by architect I.M. Pei, and walk through le Jardin des Tuileries. Our group split up just before we arrived at Napoleons tomb. John and Thomas went to see Napoleons tomb while the rest of us went to sit at le place de Concorde where a 3300 year old Egyptian obelisk from the temple Luxor stands. While waiting for John and Raymond to return Jon, Danielle and I wandered around the side streets until we found a nice shaded stoop on the corner of la rue Saint Honore. We sat and talked about how we wished we had more than one day to spend in the city and how we would like to return one day. Perhaps we can return together. The day in Paris was long, exhausting and absolutely wonderful.

Brussels' Atomium: Technical Achievement and City Landmark

By Thibaut Hugueny - Blog Entry II 

Since its first representation in 1851, universal expositions created some of the most memorable works of architecture. Usually, the different expositions had the official purpose to present the last technological innovations, but less officially to attain some political goals. Indeed, every host country tried their best to be worthy of the pride tied with the organization of such an event. In 1889, Paris launched a competition with the aim to build the boldest architectural realization ever made out of iron. At the end, Gustave Eiffel’s project was the project considered by the jury and the Eiffel Tower was built to become one of the most recognized building worldwide. In 1958, Brussels hosted the International Exposition. At this occasion, the Belgian government decided to create a building able to transcript the spirit of the event in honor of technology. The Atomuim perfectly matched the will to build a remarkable building and to pay a tribute to technology. The construction lasted for two years. During mid-twentieth century, achieving the construction of a steel building of this size in such amount of time was a real performance. The Atomium weighs 2400 tones of steel. Workers took turns night and day to finish the construction for the beginning of the Universal Exposition. During the two years of construction, the number of casualties remained null. This is really impressive considering the lack of security measures at that time. Destined to destruction after the end of the Exposition, the Atomium survived because it fitted with the Heysel Plateau where it is located. In 1958, people said the Atomium embodied the audacity of an era that wanted to intersect humankind's fate with scientific discoveries. The top floor is located 102 meters above the ground and offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. At its inauguration, the Atomium held some architectural records. For example, the only elevator of the structure was the fastest elevator in the world for a construction of this size. Also, the lateral escalators connecting the top sphere and two of the under spheres was the longest in the world. Currently in Brussels, the Atomium remains to be a great power of attraction. The building hosts different temporary exhibits (“Water for all” was the temporary exhibition the day of our visit) and also organizes receptions of groups. From a building that was destined to be deconstructed, the Atomium became one of the most energetic symbols of Brussels and is one of the symbols of the Belgian capital.

The Atomium - The Eiffel Tower of Brussels

By Thomas Ricard - Blog 2

The Atomium is a giant replica if the iron crystal structure. This was done in honor of Belgium’s metal industry for the 1958 world fair. It consists of nine giant spheres connected by tubes, with a panoramic view and restaurant at the top. The Atomium has a rich history beginning with its original construction in 1958. It was worked on twenty four hours a day despite claims by the French, that it was best to only work during day light for safety. Consequently, the Atomium was finished right on time for the world fair compared to the French exhibition which was several months late to finishing construction. Additionally, it was only built by Belgium workers to prevent complications that could arise due to translation and coordination.

The view of Brussels from the Atomium is simply amazing. You’re able to view a large portion of the city and see many of the other landmarks in the distance. The panoramic view also helps one realize how green Brussels is. Looking over the city you’re able to see large patches of trees and parks throughout the area, helping support the claim that it’s one of the greenest cities in Europe.

The Atomium is the “Eiffel Tower” of Brussels. It’s one hundred and two meters tall and can be seen shining from a distance due to its polished steel exterior skin. The three spheres supporting the highest one with the restaurant aren’t accessible. These three spheres were designed to allow the shifting of the supporting rods of the top sphere. In high winds the top sphere can shift up to 55 centimeters (approximately 22 inches.) This design reduces the stress on the rest of the monument and its support system. This is useful since the Atomium originally was only constructed to last two years before it was disassembled again, and therefore doesn’t have as large of a foundation that would normally be expected. Overall the Atomium is a very impressive work of engineering and architecture created by the Belgium people.

Brussel's Atomium - Its Symbolism and Narrative



The European Commission: Reform in the Accidental Making?

Inside the European Commission

by Jon Wright - Blog Entry I

Prior to my visit to the European Commission my understanding of the inner workings of European political structure were minuscule in comparison to the actuality of its mechanisms. I was aware of the purpose of the commission: to promote a sense of community, peace, democracy, and prosperity among its members, however truly ignorant of the complexities of actually realizing this concept. For example, the European Union’s Head of State meet as the European Council to set the overall political direction and to make major decisions on key issues. The Council meets frequently to make policy decisions and laws serving as the main executive body for putting forth proposals for legislation and ensuring said policies are properly implemented. It is easy to see that the European Union has a significant influence on the world stage and in theory is a great way to unify various cultures through economic, political, and social, stability and security. Our visit with Dr. Antonio Missiroli however opened my eyes to the various drawbacks associated with such a growing concept. Because the European Union is so unique in concept, it is truly difficult to prepare for incidences such as the Euro Crisis in Greece. Listening to him speak led me to the conclusion that neither preventive or preemptive measures can be taken to account for the plethora of problems that may possibly occur. I have learned that notions as big as the European Union need time and various tribulations in order to set precedents for reform. This may not be ideal for the people undergoing these various crisis’ now, but it allows for future generations, whom of which will have assimilated and centralized better than their predecessors to truly account for specific problems after they have already occurred, leaving no doubt on how deal with said problems.

Waterloo - A Not So Unassuming Landscape



By Silvia Brigido - Blog Entry I

As we tour Brussels, the "capital" of the European Union, it becomes increasingly apparent how this beautiful city has become a hub for all cultures, nationalities and languages. Here, people can’t help but feel as though they are a citizen of the world. A statement that may sound idealistic to some, yet that seems to be one of the goals of the European Union. That is, to join forces and built upon each nation’s strengths to form a community of collaboration amongst each other as an attempt to avoid rivalry. However, nationalism seems to be stewing just below the surface. European countries have a long history of wars based on national pride. Therefore, it only makes sense that the people of this continent would feel exhausted by their history and hope for unity and diplomatic cooperation as opposed to further conflicts and division.

Today our group toured the area known as Waterloo, a vast empty field in which one’s keen eye and power of imagination is necessary to visualize how significant this landscape was in order to succeed on that fateful day. It was on this apparently unassuming landscape where one of the most decisive European battles occurred. It was fought between Napoleon Bonaparte leading the French, and the Duke of Wellington, leading the British and with the support of the Prussian army under the command of Von Blucher. The battle of Waterloo, a day of grueling bloodshed, was of great significance and changed the course of European history after 20 years of conflicts. The events on June 18 of 1815, led Europe into 50 years of peace and opened doors to diplomatic resolutions.

Our group was lucky to get an amazingly detailed tour by one of our own, John Callaghan, who is incredibly well versed in all the details of the events that occurred during the whole campaign which lasted for three days. We got to walk along every edge of this field and see exactly how tactful and skilled those commanders had to be in order to best use the area. It quickly became apparent that the landscape alone was one of the deciding factors between the victor versus the fallen. It is an area made up of many ridges creating a natural barrier from incoming fire and an advantage of attack. The one who understood this best was the Duke of Wellington and it just may have been a huge factor in his victory. Additionally, communication was the second ingredient toward victory. While Wellington and Blucher had clear, constant and effective communication amongst themselves and their men, Bonaparte was lacking the same, despite haven been one of the most masterful war lords in history.

The results of this battle led Europe into an alliance between France and Britain, and stimulated the unification of the Prussian states into what is Germany today. Thus, it could be said that these were steps toward diplomacy and may have steered Europe into what we know it to be today - a Union of strengths.

Waterloo - And Its Lasting Historical and Political Imprint

By John Callahan - Blog II 

I think we walked over 10km today, possibly 15. This took place at Waterloo, site of the battle which ended Napoleon’s bid to reestablish his empire. As the guide for this part of the trip, my challenges were multiple. First, why visit a battlefield on a trip to study the future of Europe. Second, how to impart the important issues of the battle itself without causing intense boredom in the group. Everyone seemed to survive, and to learn something, so I call it a great success.

Waterloo ended the Napoleonic Wars, and is often, and rightly, heralded as the dawn of modern Europe. The political balance of power system which was established at the Congress of Vienna and sealed in blood with the victory at Waterloo endured for a hundred years, and, during that time, served prevent all out great power wars. Waterloo was the result of several brilliant strokes and a series of miscalculations with the end result that the French Army of about 75,000 men faced off against, and was defeated by, a coalition army of about 110,000 English, Dutch, Belgians, Germans, and Prussians. That this coalition even existed was a diplomatic success story, that the French did as well as they did in spite of the odds equally so.
To sum it up, the allies had learned Napoleon’s methods during 20 years of being defeated by him. Napoleon himself was aging, and no longer capable of both running a country and being a battlefield general at the same time. One or the other, perhaps, but not both.
We visited several key locations on the field. We began at the famous Lion Mound for an overview of the battle and the British defensive positions We then examined the Chateaux of Hougomont, scene of heavy fighting and rightmost key to the British position. The Chateaux is now, FINALLY closed for much needed repairs, since it has decayed much over the years. Hopefully the folks who stole the crucifix from the chapel will be liberally punished. We then crossed to the French side of the field to understand what the situation looked like from the French point of view, and then observed the avenues of advance of the Prussians as they attacked the French right. There is something about actually walking on the ground that is a very different experience from standing on the hill, or viewing things from a map.
Finally, we returned to the British line to see the point where Napoleon’s famed Imperial Guard were defeated, and his dreams of renewed conquest shattered. Again we were all reminded of how steep the slope that the French had to climb was.
Of all the battles of the Napoleonic wars, or perhaps of history, it is Waterloo that is perhaps the best well known. Today the group learned what made the allied victory, and a relatively peaceful century for Europe, possible.

Waterloo - The Beginning of a New Europe

The Battlefield at a glimpse

The Lion Mount

        

Le Chateaux

Bruges, between past and modernity

Bruges, Belgium

By Thibaut Hugueny - Blog I 

Bruges is a medieval city built on a natural man-made watercourse, giving it the nickname of Venice of the North. In a country where unity is an abstract notion, Bruges is the pride of the entire country of Belgium. Dutch speakers cherish their urban gem, best represented by the richness of the Flemish culture and Walloons agreed on the importance of the city within the context of the Belgian significance in the world. Andersen or Grimm brothers would probably not have disowned the idea of such a city as the setting of their fairy tales.

The magnificence of Bruges' architecture brought it an international fame. The fact that Bruges still has its medieval city intact greatly influences the spirit of the city. Bruges is called the "Egg" due to the shape of the medieval city; the fortification system consists of canals reinforced by military buildings. This impenetrable stronghold, used to defend the city against the invaders in past times, today is also serving as a protection against the modernization of the historical city. As an example, the train station remains at the edge of the urban place. The Venice of the North now receives visitors from every corner of the world. Tourism makes Bruges a lively city and positively impacts the economy. However, the flood of visitors also alters the authenticity of the place. Electric boats driving on the canal, the massive number of Japanese visitors, or the relocation of the traditional brewery out of the "yolk"(remember the egg-shape) of the city would surprise the  Flanders of the past about the city's evolution.

The disappearance of the brewery is a symptomatic "change of spirit" that occurred in many medieval cities. Beer is an integrale part of Belgian culture. Indeed, breweries existed in this part of the world long before the country was named Belgium. Short after the independence, the industrialization and the peaceful situation of Belgium allowed the development of breweries inside the wall of cities, Bruges in particular. From the forty breweries that existed during the 1940s in Bruges, only the Brouwerij De Halve Maan remains. Considered as an historical site, Bruges city council acted to preserve the last vestige of an activity that has been an active part of Bruges economy. The new social requirements and the model of urbanization required the medieval Bruges to evolve. During the nomination of Bruges as the 2002 European City of Culture, a new performing arts building was built. The modern style of the building contrasts sharply with the uniform architecture of the medieval city. This building is not yet appreciated by Bruges’ residents because of its stark difference with the traditional style of the city.

Visiting Bruges reminds us of the atmosphere of the past, yet its modernization comes in increments. Some say such modernization comes at the expense of its unique spirit, others say it needs to adapt for its survival in a society that is in constant motion. However, all can agree to the magnificent aura reflected by this city.

The Medieval City of Brugge - A Time Warp Of The Most Curious Kind....