On 16–17 January 2026, JEF Steiermark invites you to a two-day event in Graz dedicated to one of the most fundamental questions facing the European Union today: Is Europe ready to take the next step towards a European Federation?

The event will take place at Nikolaiplatz 4, 8020 Graz, and will be held in English.

Europe is currently facing profound challenges such as geopolitical instability, climate urgency, economic pressure, and democratic tensions. Against this backdrop, the event aims to create space for informed debate, critical reflection, and active engagement on the future of European integration and federalism.

Programme Overview

The event combines a high-level panel discussion on Friday evening with interactive workshops on Saturday. Participants can choose to attend the full two-day programme or join individual parts of the event.

On Friday, 16 January at 18:30, the panel discussion will bring together European and Austrian activists, young decision-makers, and civil society representatives to discuss whether a European Federation is necessary, realistic, and desirable. Speakers include Yannis Karamitsios, author of Time for a European Federation, Sabine Radl from the European Movement Austria, Antonia Herunter from the Austrian Federal Council, and Alen Plavotic from the Junge Generation SPÖ Graz. The discussion will be followed by an informal networking opportunity.

On Saturday, 17 January, the workshop day will run from 09:30 to 16:00. The focus shifts from debate to action through a series of interactive workshops. The workshop programme includes:

• The Principles of European Federalism: History, Present, and Future, led by Yannis Karamitsios
• European Federalism Beyond Institutions: Power, Responsibility, and Culture, led by Sabine Radl
• Know Your Enemy: Anti-Democratic Movements and Federalist Responses, led by Konstantin Petry (JEF Germany)

The workshops are designed to deepen participants’ understanding of European federalism, explore political culture and democratic resilience, and encourage active engagement and exchange.

Who Can Participate

The event is open to students, young professionals, activists, and anyone interested in European politics, democracy, and the future of the EU. No prior expertise is required.

Participation & Registration

Participation is free of charge, but REGISTRATION is required due to limited capacity. Whether you join us for both days or only for the panel discussion on Friday evening or the workshops on Saturday, you are very welcome.

Timeframe:

Saturday, 17 January 2026 | 09:30–16:00

09:30–10:00 | Arrival & Coffee
10:00–10:15 | Welcome & Introduction

10:15–11:15 | Workshop 1
The Principles of European Federalism: History, Present, and Future
Lead: Yannis Karamitsios

11:15–11:30 | Break

11:30–12:30 | Workshop 2
European Federalism Beyond Institutions: Power, Responsibility, and Culture
Lead: Sabine Radl

12:30–14:00 | Lunch Break

14:00–15:30 | Workshop 3
Know Your Enemy: Anti-Democratic Movements and Federalist Responses
Lead: Konstantin Petry (JEF Germany)

15:30 | Closing

Dieses Projekt wird vom Land Steiermark finanziell unterstützt.