A Closer Look at the Strategic Green Hydrogen Partnership in Namibia: Emphasizing its Economic, Social and Environmental Dimensions 
Foreign Policy: a Challenge for European Governance? 
Crippling Russia’s War Economy: EU Sanctions, Loopholes and the Road Ahead 
What Happened to the Polish Left? An Analysis of the Party’s Ideological Development and Changing Electoral Base 2024-2025 Ambassadors
Austria
Graz – Julia Schurz
Julia is a third-year law student at the University of Graz, specializing in International Relations and Political Sciences. Her volunteer work with ELSA, Amnesty International, and United Nations Youth Austria underscores her dedication to human rights advocacy, policy analysis, and academic activities focused on pressing global challenges.
She values cross-cultural exchange, language learning and actively participates in Model United Nations and competitive debating. Her internships at the Austrian Embassy in Tbilisi and various Austrian courts have sharpened her focus on migration law, human rights, and gender equality. As an EST ambassador, she aims to write insightful articles and host events that connect the European Union with young students in Austria, promoting greater awareness and engagement within her country.
Belgium
Brussels – Nazrin Alakbarli
Nazrin Alakbarli is a political science student in Brussels, Belgium, originally from Azerbaijan. Her academic focus lies in foreign affairs and European Union relations. With a deep interest in international diplomacy and EU policy, Nazrin is committed to exploring regional cooperation and global political dynamics. She actively participates in political events and discussions and regularly writes reports on current global issues. Nazrin is passionate about contributing to meaningful conversations on international relations and European integration.
Brussels – Bernat Baena Garcia
Bernat Baena Garcia, originally from Barcelona, Spain is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Foreign Affairs at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, now entering his third year. This semester, he is participating in an exchange program at KU Leuven, where he is enrolled in courses from the Master of European Studies program.
Recently, Bernat joined the European Student Think Tank (EST) as a member of the International Office, serving as an ambassador for Belgium and, later, Spain. His primary goals include promoting EU values, particularly those related to democratization and civil security. Additionally, he aims to strengthen his connections with EU institutions and policy-making bodies.
Semina Melissi
Semina graduated with a BA in International and European Studies from the University of Piraeus, focusing on European policymaking and law. She has been involved in various pro-European initiatives, including ELIAMEP programmes, the EU Youth Hub, the EST since 2019 and now the Permanent Representation of Greece to the E.U. Currently following the European policymaking around sustainability and tourism, her main goal is to raise awareness on the importance of green policies.
During her studies, she has been involved in research projects
Vittoria Pierii
Vittoria is a 24-year-old Italian student from Macerata. She graduated from the University of Macerata in Political Science and International Relations and, during her Bachelor degree, she was an Erasmus+ exchange student in Barcelona at the University Blanquerna-Ramon Llull, for one semester. She is now a second-year Master Student at the University of Bologna in International Relations- curriculum Crime, Justice, and Security, where she broadening her interests and knowledge in security-related issues. She speaks English, Italian and Spanish, and currently studying French. She was also selected for a full-scholarship for an Executive Master f
Czechia
Prague – Francesco Palmieri
Francesco is 19 years old and originally from Bologna, Italy. After completing high school this summer, he has recently moved to Prague (Czech Republic) in order to pursue a bachelor degree in “Politics, Philosophy and Economics” at Charles University. During his adolescence he played football at a professional youth level, being one of the few in Italy to do so while also attending a Liceo Classico. His main interests are in Politics and International Relations, as well as Security and Cybersecurity studies. Still very young, one day he hopes to work in the area of international affairs and diplomatic relations, a field in which he has only recently begun to take his first steps.
France
Nancy – Noor Al Houda Amari
Amari Noor Al Houda is a third year law student enrolled in the Magistère Juriste d’Affaires Européen at the Faculty of Law of Nancy, France. She has developed a deep interest in European Union law and business law. She is a firm believer in the power of youth to shape the future of Europe, particularly in areas like human rights, business and social impact. Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, she thrives on connecting with diverse perspectives and ideas. By joining the European Student Think Tank, she is looking forward to contributing to initiatives that promote European values and advocate for youth participation, while promoting intercultural understanding by bringing together students from different cultural backgrounds.
Germany
Max Henker
I am a third-year student at the University of Leipzig, Germany, pursuing a Master of Education in the subjects of English and Politics. Originally from a half-German and half-Ukrainian family, my main motivation is to maintain the peace we have enjoyed within the EU for centuries, as I witnessed how fleeting that very peace can be in Ukraine. As a result, my main field of interest is European security. Additionally, I am involved in a Leipzig-based humanitarian organisation, that is primarily focused on fundraising for Ukrainian civilians. I also participate in party politics on a local level.
Greece
Athens – Eleftheria Florou
Eleftheria Florou is the Ambassador to Athens, Greece for the term 2024-2025. She has A Bachelor’s degree in International and European Studies from Panteion University in Athens, Greece and has recentrly ended her Master’s degree in International Studies from SOAS University of London. She is a human rights advocate and she is interested in working in the humanitarian sector. She is fascinated by the intersection between security and human rights.
Athens – Maria Ioanna Dritsa
Maria Ioanna Dritsa holds a BA from National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in Turkology, and is currently pursuing her MA in European Integration at the University of the Agean. She is an Alalyst at the Association for International and European Affairs, and the Europinion Institute for Research. She is passionate about youth engagement in politics and her interests focus on EU external affairsand EU integration. She loves learning about new cultures and embraces the values of democracy, equality and stability.
Athens – Semina Melissi
Semina graduated with a BA in International and European Studies from the University of Piraeus, focusing on European policymaking and law. She has been involved in various pro-European initiatives, including ELIAMEP programmes, the EU Youth Hub, the EST since 2019 and now the Permanent Representation of Greece to the E.U. Currently following the European policymaking around sustainability and tourism, her main goal is to raise awareness on the importance of green policies.
During her studies, she has been involved in research projects regarding the European Neighbourhood policy, migration issues and security.
Corfu – Konstantina Manoli
Konstantina Manoli is a 20-years-old dynamic student in the Department of Foreign Languages, Translation and Interpreting at Ionian University. After completing an enriching experience at Paul-Valery Montpellier III University through the Erasmus+ program, she speaks Greek, English, French, Italian and Spanish, crafting bridges between cultures. Choosing this field was fuelled by her deep desire to make a significant difference in this world. A fierce advocate for equality, Konstantina passionately works against discrimination, believing that every voice deserves to be heard. Her curiosity for European Union politics, geopolitics and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) inspires her to envision a more equitable world. An adventurous spirit, she finds joy in travelling, embracing every journey as an opportunity to learn, grow and inspire.
Ireland
Cork – Ella Barrett
Ella is a final-year Social Science student at University College Cork. Her research interests primarily include feminism, environmentalism and public health policy. Ella has been a recipient of three academic Quercus scholarships throughout her time in college. These achievements reflect her passion for social responsibility and activism in third-level education. Likewise, Ella served as the College of Arts, Celtic Studies, and Social Sciences Representative to the UCC Students’ Union last year. As an executive member of the SU, Ella represented the 14,000-person student body on 10 of the highest decision-making bodies of the University. This year, she has been elected UCC Rowing Club’s Captain and has led a leaderboard-topping national championship, taking home 6 titles for her club!
Italy
Bologna – Federica Iannò
Federica is a first-year MA student in International Relations at the University of Bologna, after pursuing an LLB Global Law and Transnational Legal Studies and the University of Turin. She is currently the Vice Secretary of MSOI Torino.
Florence – Manal Mouaid
Manal Mouaid is a 23-year-old Italian with Moroccan origins. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in International Relations and European Studies at the University of Florence, her academic journey reflects a deep passion for global affairs and her dedication to fostering positive societal change. She is particularly focused on addressing critical issues like security, migration and human rights, which have shaped her academic and personal pursuits.
In addition to her studies, Manal is an active International Conflicts blog writer and contributes to discussions on European public policy through her involvement with CEPS YT. She will now represent EST as an ambassador, working to bridge the gap between students and European institutions while promoting active youth engagement.
With experience in research and leadership roles, she is determined to contribute meaningfully to the future of European policy and international relations!
Foggia – Paola Testa
Paola Testa is a Junior Analyst at Istituto Analisi Relazioni Internazionali (IARI) and an Insight Author for the Global Network on Extremism and Technology (GNET), King’s College London. She acts as a Global Youth Leaders Programme and Youth 7 Observer with Young Ambassadors Society (YAS) for the G7 Italy 2024. Paola specializes in MENA and Islamist T/VE, with a strong focus on defense and security, humanitarian issues, women’s rights, equality and inclusion. An advocate for the diverse, she has represented the voices of all kinds of people in fiction, on social media, and through geopolitical analysis.
Marcerata – Vittoria Pierii
Vittoria is a 24-year-old Italian student from Macerata. She graduated from the University of Macerata in Political Science and International Relations and, during her Bachelor degree, she was an Erasmus+ exchange student in Barcelona at the University Blanquerna-Ramon Llull, for one semester. She is now a second-year Master Student at the University of Bologna in International Relations- curriculum Crime, Justice, and Security, where she broadening her interests and knowledge in security-related issues. She speaks English, Italian and Spanish, and currently studying French. She was also selected for a full-scholarship for an Executive Master from the Italy-U.S. Foundation on the Leadership for International Relations and Made in Italy.
Messina – Daniel Bang-Hansen
Daniel Tygesen Bang-Hansen is a Danish student currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations and Political Science at The University of Messina.
He has a diverse professional background, having worked, for example, as a Claims Specialist at Accenture in Prague and also gained valuable experience as an auditor trainee at EY, working with both small and large clients. He is passionate about politics and economics and enjoys staying active through sports like road cycling and padel. Daniel is currently adapting to life in Sicily while continuing his studies and exploring the surroundings.
Messina – Simona Petrzilkova
Simona is a dedicated student of International Relations and Political Science, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree while also interning at Parliament Watch Italia. With a strong commitment to advancing democratic values, she has been involved in various youth advocacy initiatives across Europe, contributing to campaigns up to the EU elections and serving as a Digital Rights Ambassador at 5 Rights Foundation. Her passion for digital rights, democratic participation, and transparent governance is evident through her contributions to various civic participatory projects. With her ability to navigate cross-cultural contexts, having lived and studied in Denmark, Italy, and the Czech Republic, she believes that she bring a global perspective to her work
Rome – Althea Catucci
Althea is originally from Rome, Italy, with Lebanese and Armenian heritage. She has lived in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Spain, gaining diverse academic and professional experience. She holds a Bachelor’s degree with combined Honors in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from the University of Exeter in the UK, and a Master’s degree in Management from IE Business School in Spain.
Most recently, Althea completed an internship at the United Nations Department of Safety and Security at its headquarters in New York. She is fluent in English, French, and Italian, and proficient in Spanish.
Althea is passionate about international affairs, global security, and migration issues.
Rome – Camilla Cialone
Camilla is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in European Studies with a focus on Comparative and European Law at Sapienza University. Born in Rome to an Italian father and a New Zealander mother, her international upbringing instilled a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Chinese and Russian for International Relations from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan, where her studies in political science, intercultural communication, geopolitics, and European institutions sparked a passion for understanding how different legal frameworks interact within Europe and internationally. Fluent in Italian, English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Russian, Camilla is committed to bridging Europe with the wider world. In her free time, she enjoys running, playing tennis, and promoting sustainability and wellness.
Trento – Giovanni Gereschi
Giovanni is a first-year Master student in European and International Studies at the University of Trento, Italy. Originally from Verona, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy, International and Economic Studies from Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and has spent one year as exchange student at the University of Tübingen, Germany. During his undergraduate years, he has co-managed the student association Venice Diplomatic Society. Giovanni’s professional interests lie at the crossroads between International Relations and European Studies; he is particularly keen on the topics of European politics and external action, though he also enjoys exploring the social sciences at large. He aims at eventually working in the field of European foreign policy.
Lithuania
Vilnius – Hayrünnisa Çelik
Originally from Turkey, Hayrunnisa Çelik is in her third year of Bachelor’s studies in Law and Global Security at Mykolas Romeris University in Vilnius. Having lived in 6 countries, Hayrunnisa has an interesting and international background that helps her contribute to the work she does. She has a strong interest in the human rights field, which is why she did her internship at the Human Rights Monitoring Institute. For the general part her work focuses on the rights of migrants – she is also passionate about reducing inequalities and promoting diplomacy. Hayrunnisa is extremely pleased to be an Ambassador to Lithuania and encourages young people to be proactive and seek solutions to global issues.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg – Jorge Ramons Archilla
From a Spanish background, Jorge was born and raised in Luxembourg. This experience has allowed him to speak Spanish, French, and English fluently, with some notions of Luxembourgish. Following his attendance at the European School, he is currently in his third year of a BA in Business, Political Science, Economics, and Sociology at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland.
He is especially interested in the diplomatic, security, and defense fields applied to Euro-Atlantic relations. Dedicated to pursuing a future career in Luxembourgish diplomacy, he aspires to enhance the role this small but promising country has in international organizations like the European Union, NATO, or the UN.
Malta
Naxxar – Emma de Gabriele
Having graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Malta, Emma de Gabriele is currently reading a Masters in Advocacy, hoping to specialise in international law with an emphasis on international peace and security. She served as Malta’s Youth Delegate to the United Nations and has been involved in several student organisations including il-Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU) as Social Policy Officer and ELSA Malta as Vice President in charge of Academic Affairs.
The Netherlands
The Hague – Dilana Aslan
Dilana is a vibrant and dedicated student currently residing in The Hague, Netherlands. She is pursuing her graduate degree at the renowned Leiden University, where she specializes in International Studies with a focus on Latin America. Alongside her academic journey, Dilana is an active participant in various student organizations, skillfully balancing her commitments between work, studies, and personal passions. Whether she’s delving into a captivating book, enjoying a peaceful walk, or immersing herself in a cinematic experience, Dilana approaches life with curiosity and enthusiasm, always striving to expand her horizons.
Poland
Warsaw – Zuzanna Miernik
She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, where she focused on political trust, international challenges, and the devolution process in Scotland, particularly examining the implications of Brexit. Her studies provided her with a strong understanding of Brexit and the broader challenges facing the European polity. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in European
Manal Mouaid
Manal Mouaid is a 23-year-old Italian with Moroccan origins. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in International Relations and European Studies at the University of Florence, her academic journey reflects a deep passion for global affairs and her dedication to fostering positive societal change. She is particularly focused on addressing critical issues like security, migration and human rights, which have shaped her academic and personal pursuits.
In addition to her studies, Manal is an active International Conflicts blog writer and contributes to discussions on European public policy through her involvement with CEPS YT. She will now represent EST as an ambassador, working to bridge the gap between students and European institutions while promoting active youth engagement.
With experience in research and leadership roles, she is determined to contribute meaningfully to the future of European policy and international relations!
Portugal
Lisbon – Miguel Toscano
Miguel Toscano graduated from the University of Évora in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in International Relations. Later on, he moved to Denmark to embark on a new challenge, where he graduated from Aalborg University with a master’s degree in International Relations. Miguel has engaged in different youth and student organizations over the years, with several leadership positions along the way. Alongside that, his professional journey includes experiences in the fields of research, project management and policy analysis. He is a curious and creative individual, always trying to do better day by day. He believes in the importance of discussing the EU and the future of this key project for all European nations.
Romania
Bucharest – Alexandra-Maria Sima
She is a third-year university student specializing in Japanese and Korean languages at the University of Bucharest. Alongside her academic studies, she has been actively volunteering for over a year, both in Romania and internationally. With a passion for diplomacy and cross-cultural exchange, she is currently contributing to the EST think tank, focusing on policy analysis and international cooperation. Through her diverse experiences, she aims to bridge cultural gaps and promote effective global communication, while preparing for a future career in diplomacy.
Serbia
Belgrade – Sara Pavlovic
She is currently a student at the University of Belgrade and University of London dual degree programme, majoring in Business and Management. Prior to this she had graduated the International Baccalaureate Diplomma Programme. She is an alumni of Petnica Science Research Center and Immerse Education Essay Competition 2022 winner. Furthermore, she is currently an active member of the European Youth Parliament Network and Global Shapers Community, where she is currently assuming the role of an Impact Officer of the Belgrade Hub. Her interests include macroeconomics, psychology and neuroscience.
Spain
Barcelona – Bernat Baena Garcia
Bernat Baena Garcia, originally from Barcelona, Spain is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Foreign Affairs at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, now entering his third year. This semester, he is participating in an exchange program at KU Leuven, where he is enrolled in courses from the Master of European Studies program.
Recently, Bernat joined the European Student Think Tank (EST) as a member of the International Office, serving as an ambassador for Belgium and, later, Spain. His primary goals include promoting EU values, particularly those related to democratization and civil security. Additionally, he aims to strengthen his connections with EU institutions and policy-making bodies.
United Kingdom
Belfast – Emma McDonagh
Emma McDonagh is a final year undergraduate law student from Queen’s University Belfast, returning to Ireland after being awarded a scholarship to study business abroad in the USA for an academic year. She spent the year studying a range of new subjects, practising Spanish, acting as secretary of the International Society, working in the university’s International Office and travelling the country as much as possible. She has been selected for insight schemes in a range of commercial legal offices ranging from Belfast to London. Emma is the acting Director of Alumni Relations for ELSA Ireland and is a researcher for the International Legal Research Group on Law and Sustainability in collaboration with the Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy. She published her first article with the European Studies Review in February 2024 on water scarcity in the EU, and has maintained her interest in environmental protection. Returning to Europe this summer, she completed an internship with the Rian Immigrant Centre, aiding Irish graduates in making the move to the USA, and then spent some time exploring Eastern Europe and Scandinavia with an Interrail pass before returning to university this autumn.
Newcastle – Zuzanna Miernik
She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, where she focused on political trust, international challenges, and the devolution process in Scotland, particularly examining the implications of Brexit. Her studies provided her with a strong understanding of Brexit and the broader challenges facing the European polity. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in European Union Studies at Newcastle University, concentrating on the EU’s external relations, with a special emphasis on developing states and sanctions policies. Additionally, she has earned a certificate from the University of London’s ‘Global Diplomacy – Diplomacy in the Modern World’ program. She has also gained practical experience through internships at the Permanent Mission of the Maldives to the UN and the Geneva Graduate Institute’s Programme.