Official Launch of the Jean Monnet Module at Universidad Austral: "European Union in Latin America and the Caribbean: From Brussels to Buenos Aires"

On November 12, 2024, we officially launched our Jean Monnet Module at the Buenos Aires campus of Universidad Austral. The event was honored by the presence of the European Union Ambassador to Argentina, Amador Sánchez Rico, as well as ambassadors and representatives from the Embassies of Morocco, Ireland, Poland, Belgium, and Finland. Authorities and faculty members from the School of Government at Universidad Austral were also in attendance.

The project, entitled “European Union in Latin America and the Caribbean: From Brussels to Buenos Aires”, has an initial duration of three years and is coordinated by Module Leader Santiago Ardisson, with the support of Victoria Clark.

The opening remarks were delivered by Alfonso Santiago, Director of the School of Politics, Government, and International Relations at Universidad Austral. In his speech, he reflected on the mission and core objectives of the academic unit and emphasized the relevance of the project:

“The launch of this Jean Monnet Module is of great importance, as it allows us to consolidate all our research and teaching efforts focused on the relationship between Argentina, the broader Latin American region, and Europe. This connection is one of the key pillars we have identified in our School of Government to understand global affairs. With the support of the European Union, we can now carry out these academic and institutional activities, representing a crucial step in our development.”

Following this, Ambassador Amador Sánchez Rico offered a few words:

“The European Union selected a university with strong credentials in both education and research. Our aim is to raise awareness and promote, in a rigorous academic setting, what the European Union stands for—something that, in many ways, remains underappreciated. In today’s geopolitical context, showcasing the ties between the EU and Latin America—especially with Argentina—adds significant value.”

As a special guest, Germán Ríos, Associate Professor of Economics and Director of the Latin America Observatory at IE University, gave a presentation. He highlighted key areas in which this project could foster synergies, including environmental sustainability, digital transformation, and social impact.

Finally, Sofía del Carril, Director of the Master in International Affairs at Universidad Austral, introduced the academic structure of the Module. She explained that the initiative will focus on three main pillars:

1. Teaching: including an introductory course on the European Union, a seminar on EU–Latin America and Caribbean relations, and a policy workshop for decision-makers.

2. Research: through academic articles, conference presentations, and the publication of a book on the bi-regional partnership ecosystem.

3. Outreach and Impact: with activities such as a European Union Cultural Week at the Pilar Campus, as well as public lectures, conferences, and other community events.

This launch marks the beginning of a meaningful academic journey, deepening the dialogue between Europe and Latin America through education, research, and public engagement.