Winter School
Europe and the World Winter School 2026: Security Challenges for the EU in Turbulent Times
Event information
Date & location
Madrid
Contact
Prof. Diego Rodríguez
drodrigu@ucm.esParticipation
Interested? Complete the application form by 20 December to apply.
Open to undergraduate students of European Studies at the Una Europa partner universities, the Security Challenges for the EU in Turbulent Times Winter School provides a dynamic and reflective space in which to explore crucial issues concerning the different dimensions and challenges facing Europe in the field of security. Through a five-day intensive problem-solving exercise and with a multidisciplinary approach, the programme aims to raise awareness and promote dialogue on these global challenges.
This Winter School is co-organised by Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna (Unibo), KU Leuven (KUL) and Uniwersytet Jagielloński w Krakowie (UJ).
Applications to this Winter School are now open.
Under the guidance of academics and practitioners, students will analyse the outcomes of current policies and develop recommendations to address pressing challenges, such as the complexities of implementing a new European defence policy, the debate on the relationship between security and migration, and concerns about how to address critical dependencies and improve energy security. The programme includes lectures, workshops, roundtable discussions, group work and field trips.
Why should I apply to this Winter School?
This Winter School provides a collaborative and reflective space to explore Europe’s evolving security landscape. Guided by mentors and professors from various scientific fields, you will combine theoretical and practical approaches, which will:
- Foster interdisciplinary learning.
- Promote pedagogical innovation.
- Strengthen collective engagement with contemporary European and global challenges.
What can I expect from the Winter School?
The course includes:
- Preliminary online session (2.5 hours on 6 February).
- Intensive in-person programme (5 days in Madrid, 9–13 February).
Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate of a attendance and 3 ECTS credits.
Additionally, the Winter School features a rich social and cultural programme, including visits to the Reina Sofía Museum and various research facilities at Universidad Complutense de Madrid and even a Treasure Hunt.
What is the cost of the Winter School?
For undergraduate students at UCM, Unibo, KUL or UJ:
You are eligible for an Erasmus+ BIP mobility grant to help cover travel and accommodation. Your local coordinator will guide you through the two steps:
- Applying to the Winter School.
- Applying for the mobility grant.
- Universidad Complutense de Madrid: Prof. Diego Rodríguez (drodrigu@ucm.es).
- Uniwersytet Jagielloński w Krakowie: Joanna Orzechowska-Wacławska (joanna.orzechowska-waclawska@uj.edu.pl).
- KU Leuven: Olha Skrypal (olha.skrypal@kuleuven.be).
- Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna: Carmelo Danisi (carmelo.danisi2@unibo.it).
For undergraduate students at other Una Europa universities:
Registration is free, but you are not eligible for the Erasmus+ BIP grant and must cover your own travel, accommodation and subsistence costs. The Winter School recommends contacting your university’s mobility office to check whether additional funding or bursaries may be available.
Am I eligible to take part?
This Winter School welcomes applications from:
- All Una Europa students pursuing a degree in European Studies.
- Priority is given to second or third year students.
- Additional students who meet the academic criteria if places remain available.
How do I apply?
To apply, UCM, Unibo, KUL and JU students should contact their local coordinator as outlined above (see 'What is the cost of the Winter School?').
Other eligible students should complete the application form by 20 December 2026 to register your interest. You will need to submit:
- Basic personal information.
- A short CV.
- A motivation letter.
Applications will be reviewed by the Winter School coordinators from the organising universities.
You will receive the result by email no later than 10 January 2026.
