# Brussels – the melting pot of culture and politics

> In early May, a group of welfare coordinator students found themselves on a study trip in Brussels.

## Overview
In early May, a group of welfare coordinator students from Savonia University of Applied Sciences traveled to Brussels to study EU policy from the perspective of health and well-being promotion. The trip provided an opportunity to explore EU institutions, understand the support systems for Finns living abroad, and experience the cultural landscape of the city.

## EU Institutions and Regional Representation
*   **European Committee of the Regions (CoR):** This institution ensures regional voices are heard in the EU. Approximately 70% of the EU Commission’s legislative proposals are consulted with the CoR before implementation.
*   **European Economic and Social Committee (EESC):** Represents organized civil society, including employers’ organizations, trade unions, and civil society groups (e.g., consumers and farmers), allowing them to influence legislative proposals.
*   **Eastern and Northern Finland’s EU Office:** One of six Finnish EU offices in Brussels. Its key tasks include monitoring and influencing EU issues relevant to the region to enhance the competitiveness and economic conditions of Eastern and Northern Finland.
*   **Cabinet of Commissioner Jutta Urpilainen:** The group met with Suvi Leinonen, a special assistant to Commissioner Urpilainen, who oversees International Partnerships. The cabinet’s work includes developing sustainable investment strategies in Africa, negotiating the Cotonou Agreement, and supporting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

## Health and Well-being in the Workplace
The group visited the Committee’s Medical Service, which supports over 30,000 clients from 27 nationalities. Key challenges for employees include mental health, work-life balance, and navigating a diverse work culture. The service employs a multidisciplinary team—including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and a budget counselor—to address these psychosocial needs.

## Support for Finns in Brussels
The Finnish House (Finnish Seamen’s Mission in Belgium) serves the estimated 5,000 Finns living in the area. It provides professional help for everyday challenges and crises, and offers a community space featuring a Scandinavian-style cafe, a shop, a library, and a sauna.

## Cultural Well-being and Inclusion
During Europe Day 2024, the students explored various cultural sites, including:
*   **Autoworld Brussels:** A collection of over 1,000 vehicles.
*   **Atomium:** A landmark monument offering views of the city.
*   **Brugge:** A visit to the historic city.
*   **65degrés Restaurant:** A notable example of inclusive business practices, where the group experienced a high-quality dining experience staffed by individuals with diverse backgrounds, sparking discussions on implementing similar concepts in Finland.

## Contributors
**Writers:**
*   Mari Ellola, Ansu Falck, Annina Kekki, Eeva-Liisa Mali, Saija Manninen, Sanna Nerjanto & Laura Siitari (Students of Welfare and Health Coordinator Master’s Degree Programme at Savonia UAS)
*   Pirjo Turunen (Principal Lecturer, Savonia UAS)

## Sources
*   Sopimus Euroopan Unionista (Maastrichtin sopimus).
*   European Union: European Economic and Social Committee (EESC).
*   European Commission: Human resources and security.
*   Itä- ja Pohjois-Suomen EU-toimisto.
*   Visit Brussels: LGBTQIA+ guide.
*   Suomen Merimieskirkko ry – Benelux-maiden merimieskirkko.
*   Von der Leyen, Ursula: Toimeksiantokirje (Mission letter to Jutta Urpilainen).
*   Autoworld Brussels.
*   Atomium.
*   European Union: Tavoitteet ja arvot.