“Europe in Focus” – this was the theme chosen for the International Student Group’s celebration of Europe Day 2026. But the title did more than just name the event; it described the main activity of the day: a photography contest!
Participants were invited to reflect European values through their camera lenses – a reminder that Europe’s core values are often easier to feel than to put into words.
This celebration was initiated by the International Student Working Group (Referat FAU), in partnership with EELISA and the FAU International Office, with support from Highlights-ev and the International Student Network.
Students were divided into teams, each named after one of the EU’s fundamental values: Human Dignity, Freedom, Democracy, Equality, Rule of Law, and Human Rights. Their mission was simple yet meaningful – walk through Erlangen and Nürnberg for two hours, and return with three photographs that told a story about their assigned value.
After the walk, each team presented their work to a jury and the audience.
What stood out most during the pitches was how personal and thoughtful the presentations were. The conversations sparked by the images turned out to be just as valuable as the photographs themselves.
From this event, one lesson became clear: Europe holds deep meaning for many people – not only for those who hold European citizenship, but also for those who have benefited from high-quality education, freedom of mobility, and the protection of human rights.
EELISA FAU continues working to strengthen its presence and support for all FAU students, especially in the areas of mobility and further European education. By being part of a wider European university network, we hope these values are not just taught, but communicated and exchanged across borders.
Above all, we look forward to more active participation from young people – to shape a Europe defined by peace, justice, and unity.
Happy Europe Day 2026!
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5/5Picture and documentation by Stefan Ivanov