Expert lecture on the Franco-German Day in Bocholt

Last Wednesday, Professor Ménudier was once again a guest in Bocholt at the invitation of the Deutsch-Französische Gesellschaft Bocholt e.V. in cooperation with EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt, the Europa-Union Bocholt e.V., the BELC network and the VHS. He celebrated Franco-German Day with the guests, which is celebrated every year around 22 January. The Franco-German Civic Fund sponsored the evening event.

Professor Henri Ménudier is an expert in the field of French politics, Franco-German relations and Europe. He has given lectures as a visiting professor at several universities in Germany and at elite universities in France. Last Wednesday, he was a guest in Bocholt for the fifth time at the invitation of the Deutsch-Französische Gesellschaft Bocholt e.V. (German-French Society Bocholt).

Morning event at St.-Georg-Gymnasium

Prof Ménudier spoke to 230 pupils about "France in crisis - consequences for Franco-German relations and Europe" and captivated the pupils with his knowledge. Numerous questions following the lecture on the influences of right-wing extremism and global upheavals demonstrated the interest in his lecture.

Evening event sponsored by the Franco-German Citizens' Fund

In the evening, the Deutsch-Französische Gesellschaft Bocholt e.V. invited guests to the council chamber of the historic town hall. Deputy Mayor Gudrun Koppers emphasised the relevance of European issues for all residents of the European Union. Bocholt is aware of this and has already won numerous European awards. She praised town twinning initiatives, such as the town twinning with Aurillac and Arpajon-sur-Cère, as a driving force for Franco-German relations and thus for European understanding. The Franco-German Day was a good occasion for this.

Prof Ménudier began his lecture with well-founded facts about the history of France, which can be used to explain current events such as a high propensity for strikes. This was followed by an outline of the current situation in France, which is putting a strain on Franco-German relations. A look at geopolitics rounded off the presentation. The European Union is forced to enter into new partnerships, as established relationships, such as those with the USA, have become unstable.

Sonja Wießmeier from EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt emphasised how important the European idea is currently in the minds of Europeans in order to be able to move towards a successful future together.

Over a snack, the attendees had the opportunity to exchange ideas and reflect on what they had heard.

Sponsored by the Franco-German Civic Fund

The event is sponsored by the Franco-German Civic Fund as part of the "German-French Day" project. The Franco-German Civic Fund advises, networks and finances projects that bring Franco-German friendship and Europe to life for the general public. It promotes a variety of formats and topics, has a low threshold and is open to all civil society players.