This spring season’s new lecture, “The European Union – A Long Road to Today’s Union”, will take place on 22 Thursday January 2026 from 18:00 to 19:00 in Sampola’s auditorium. It will guide the audience through the political and economic union’s key questions, milestones, and present-day values.
The EU, which began with six founding states, has grown into a union of 27 countries. Lecturer Jorma Hokkanen will explain the root causes that triggered European integration and Finland’s journey within the EU.
– The lecture will also cover how it is possible that 27 independent European states have decided to transfer part of their sovereign power to a supranational decision-making body, Hokkanen notes.
According to Hokkanen, the topic of the EU is more relevant than ever.
– It is said that the European Union has developed as a result of crises. On the other hand, it is said that the present cannot be understood without knowing the past. Europe, the EU, and the entire world are facing challenging times. It is important to see that the Union is much more than just a political actor, Hokkanen emphasizes.
The lecture is free of charge and no advance registration is required. The lecture will be in Finnish.
Sampola’s auditorium is located on the second floor. It is accessible by elevator, and wheelchair users can enter the hall.
