Posted on 04 May 2018
The Alcide De Gasperi Research Centre has successfully completed the first cycle of its new seminar series on 5 April 2018, with a seminar on the building of Civil Europe 1951-1972.
The ADGRC Seminar Series, which was launched in November 2017, gives researchers the opportunity to present their recent work on different aspects of European integration history.
“I think the seminar went really well. Simone [the discussant] had clearly read the chapter I had sent him in detail, which was kind. He made some very constructive comments. I liked the relaxed atmosphere, the location and the mixed audience” says Stefanie Pukallus, who presented her research at the last seminar.
Each seminar features one researcher who presents his or her work, while the other attendees provide feedback, particularly the discussant, but also other researchers working in the same field.
On behalf of the Alcide De Gasperi, Silvia Sassano says: “We are really satisfied with the seminar series because it addresses one of the main objectives of the research centre by gathering young and senior scholars together to discuss the many aspects of European integration history.”
During the last seminar, Pukallus discussed what the vision of Civil Europe consisted of and how the European Commission attempted to achieve its civil intentions via the building of European Schools, the Community’s participation in the Expo 58 and through the production of its own documentaries.
Simone Paoli, discussant at the last event, says: “I appreciate the idea [of the seminar series] because in my opinion it is very important not only for beginners but also for senior researchers to have the opportunity to listen to feedback of colleagues. It is a very important and useful initiative.”
The seminar series has featured a wide range of topics in the field of European Integration, including the European debate on the nuclear issue and antinuclear movements, Vichy France and the Origins of the European Coal and Steel Community and the Origins of a common European Middle East Policy.
Alexandre Dab, who presented about the European Middle East Policy, describes the seminar series as a “great experience” and says it will change his work “quite a bit”. He will now be thinking more about how to situate the Middle East conflict in the larger issue of the Middle East.
The next cycle of seminars will begin after the summer. Keep an eye on our page and #ADGRC on social media to stay up to date on the activities of our research centre.