About the author:
Martin Kallestrup, a Master of Letters student in International Security Studies at University of St Andrews joined our Spring School in Oxford on Transatlantic Relations from 13-15 April 2026. Martin was part of a group of 36 graduate students from Europaeum member universities who travelled from across Europe and the UK to Oxford to hear about and discuss the transatlantic issues of the day.
Martin kindly took the time to write down his reflections on taking part in the event, which you can read below. He has also contributed a selection of photographs from his time at the Spring School.
Reflections on the Europaeum Spring School
The 2026 Spring School critically challenged pre-conceived notions I held regarding European security. Throughout the three days, we heard from students, academics and industry experts on the future of the transatlantic relationship, covering a wide range of topics including migration, postcolonial legacies, the evolving geopolitical landscape and technological regulation.
Some, such as Professor Bogdanor, stressed the importance of increasing European defence spending in the context of an uncertain US security guarantee while others, such as Professor Hanhimäki and Professor Dorion-Soulié, argued that, despite increased deployment of unconventional and brash rhetoric, current fractures in the relationship are reminiscent of historical discrepancies between the US and European states rather than anomalous. I found the recurring emphasis on continued common interests in economic and security concerns between the US and Europe as mechanisms for facilitating future co-operation particularly enlightening.
The Spring School has been an incredible opportunity, not only to pursue my interest in US-European relations, but also to engage, and strategise with like-minded people. Invigorating discussion continued outside conference hours over meals and late-night drinks in the beautiful and historic Oxford town centre and I have formed connections with friends that I will continue to keep in touch with after the event.
I would highly recommend applying to attend Europaeum events and would jump at the opportunity to participate in similar initiatives in the future.
