Reflections from the European Union Visitors Program

Aravind Unni, India – EUVP Alumni, June 2024

Participating in the EUVP in June 2024 was a fruitful experience, offering a deeper insight into the governance and collaborative spirit of the EU. As someone engaged in urban planning, and social justice for marginalized communities in cities, this opportunity provided a global - European perspective that is crucial to the practice in the cities, that is strengthened with opportunity on global exchanges of ideas and policy frameworks.

The EU’s model is not only fascinating in its structure but also in how it functions. It is indeed a remarkable experiment in supranational governance, where 27 member states – across divisions of language and culture - pool their sovereignty to achieve common goals and larger policy frameworks while maintaining the governance independence of members states, regions and even cities at the decentralized level. The EU maintains a delicate balance of power, across scales, ensuring representation and a unified agenda. The democratic debate within the EU is vibrant and multifaceted, covering issues ranging from local concerns of mass transit to global challenges of climate crisis. This model – though under constant tension and challenges - showcases how a diverse group of nations can collaborate effectively for each other’s benefit.

One aspect that stood out was the EU’s approach to trade and the free movement of people. The seamless borders within the Schengen Area and the single market concept are bold experiments at economic cooperation and unity. This has enabled building a sense of European identity that transcends boundaries. This approach contrasts sharply with the challenges faced by countries like India, where disparities and fraught relations often hinder economic growth and integration. It offers valuable lessons for us in India and its South Asian neighbours to emulate.

The EU’s concentrated action on climate change was another highlight that resonated deeply with me and my work in India. The European Green Deal and its ambitious targets for carbon neutrality by 2050 reflect a proactive and comprehensive approach to one of the most pressing issues of our time. The integration of climate action into various sectors of governance was noticeable and impressive. The level of commitment, supported by policy frameworks and strong political will, is something India could learn from, especially as we grapple with the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. In addition to governance and climate action, the EUVP exchange offered valuable insights into urban planning in European cities. The EU’s focus on creating sustainable, liveable urban environments is evident in their commitment to public transportation, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and social inclusion. 

Interacting with representatives from different Directorate-Generals (DGs) of the EU – particularly Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), Environment (DG ENV), Employment, Social Affairs, and Inclusion (DG EMPL), and Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO) - was enlightening. The representatives not only shared their time and expertise but have initiated networking and connections for future collaborations. The level of openness and willingness to exchange views was truly commendable. The EUVP team ensured that we were hosted comfortably and that our schedules were meticulously planned. The hospitality and logistical support provided by the team were exemplary, setting a gold standard for future exchanges.

True to the ethos of the EU, the EUVP allowed for incredible intermingling of people and cultures. The programme brought together a diverse cohort, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. I now have added friends across the world and look forward to continuing the exchange of ideas that the EUVP facilitated. As an EUVP alumnus, I can also vouch for the intense experience one has in Brussels. Mastering the art of navigating meetings on a tight schedule, moving swiftly using various modes of transport, and covering stupendous amounts of daily steps became second nature to me. Some of us — me included — were unprepared for the relentless pace, but we pushed each other on, fuelled by caffeine, curiosity, and waffles and beer in the evenings. By the end of the week, we were not just participants —but veterans of the EUVP, with stories to tell.

The EUVP was an experience like no other. The exchange of ideas, and the exposure to the EU model have all contributed to a richer understanding of how we might address similar challenges in India. I return with renewed vigour, armed with new perspectives and ideas that I hope to apply in my work after contextualizing them, contributing to the ongoing discourse on urbanization, governance, and social justice in our context. This is with the expectation that connections developed will aid in future collaborations and learning opportunities between EU and India — guided by the principles of free exchange of ideas, participation, and inclusion that the EUVP has instilled in me.

Aravind Unni is an urban practitioner, and researcher based in Delhi, India. He has a passion for building and imagining cities which are inclusive, equitable and sustainable. His work spans 15 years of with diverse communities, social movements, and governments, advocating for policies inclusion and participatory urban development. He can be reached at  www.linkedin.com/in/aravindunni