Disseminator Workshop “The Value of Europe”
The study: „The Value of Europe“ by the Institut für Europäische Politik was presented and discussed during a workshop for disseminators on 15 October 2013 in the European Commission Representation in Berlin. The aim of the workshop was to discuss both the results of the study and its utilisation by disseminators in the communication of European policy. Besides the editors, Prof. Dr. Mathias Jopp and Dr. Funda Tekin, 25 representatives of various European policy associations attended the workshop.
The editors presented the outcomes along the lines of two dimensions: the material and the immaterial added value of Europe. A cost-benefit analysis for the space of freedom, security and justice, the eurozone, the European citizenship and the enlargement and neighbourhood policies highlighted the study’s results in detail.
There was a General consensus in the subsequent discussion that the study was very useful, giving disseminators important arguments that they can use in their work. However, the study is also in need of further adaption by the respective organizations due to its wide target group. While the workshop’s participants discussed the merits of involving civil society organizations already at early stages of research projects to enhance the practical relevance of scientific results, it was noted that this could lead to undesirable external influences on the research process. Ultimately, the workshop format was considered an appropriate method for an exchange between research and civil society.
Particularly regarding the upcoming European elections in May 2014 and associated campaigns to raise turnout, the disseminators saw the study as a substantial asset. They are interested in continuing the exchange and will integrate the study’s results into their activities.