EU in a nutshell
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What is European Union?
The EU is a political and economic union of 27 European countries founded in 1993. Its main goals are to promote peace, stability, and economic prosperity. Finland joined EU in 1995 after a referendum. -
Institutions
The EU's main institutions include the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Council.The European Commission, which consists of 27 commissioners, one from each country, proposes legislation and implements decisions. The European Council, composed of national leaders, sets the EU's overall policy agenda.
The European Parliament, elected by EU citizens every five years, debates and passes laws. Finland has 15 seats in the parliament in the 2024 elections. In the EU elections, all countries are their own electoral districts, so you can vote for any candidate from your country.
These institutions work together to create and enforce laws, ensuring the union operates smoothly and democratically.
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What does EU have to do with education?
While universities in Europe are mostly autonomous institutions, the EU can still make educational politics. Most notorious European education achievements are Erasmus+ exchange program, European Universities initiative and Bologna process.
European Universities initiative is primarily EU funded initiative to bring together higher education institutions in Europe. Within these European University alliances, students can study flexibly within the universities of the alliance, making mobility and international education easier than before. Aalto University belongs to UNITE! Alliance.
Bologna process is a collaborative effort among European countries to unify higher education systems, making degrees and qualifications more comparable and compatible across borders.
The Erasmus+ program is a standout feature of the EU, offering students the chance to study or intern in different European countries. An Erasmus+ exchange is a life-changing and memorable part of their lives for many students.
Remember to vote in the EU elections! Advance voting is open until 4 June and the election day is 9 June. Read more on vaalit.fi/en
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AYY member – please respond to our member survey!
We would like to hear your thoughts on what is working well in the student union, which areas could be improved, and how we can best serve our members. Please help us improve and continue working towards the best student life in the world! Among respondents, an iPad Air and ticket sets for Alvarin kesäjuhla festival will be raffled. AYY's member survey will be open until 8 May.
Apply for SYL committees!
Aalto University Student Union members now have the opportunity to apply for the Advisory Board for Development Cooperation (KENKKU) and Climate Network of SYL, the National Union of University Students in Finland.
Young adults are the loneliest group in Finland – students launch Wappu fundraiser
Aalto University Student Union’s (AYY) Fuksi Committee and International Committee are raising funds ahead of Wappu to help reduce loneliness among young people. The funds raised will be directed to HelsinkiMissio’s work to combat loneliness among young people.
New student homes in Otaniemi. Apply now!
Otakaari 15 housing applications are open!The property will offer 153 modern apartments designed to meet the needs of today’s students right in the heart of Aalto University campus.