That was my most important learning of our Nettwerk delegation trip to Brussels.
Or as an experienced Europe expert put it: “Make friends when you don’t need them.”
For three days, we were allowed to look behind the scenes of Europe. We visited the European Parliament, got to know the Bavarian representation to the EU, discussed with high-ranking representatives from politics, business and administration and explored the European capital on a bike tour together. It quickly became clear that Europe works differently than many of us think.
Those who only take action when a law is on the table are often too late. If you want to shape things, you have to build relationships, understand perspectives, listen and create trust. Influence rarely arises in the decisive meeting. Influence arises long before that.
For me, however, this trip was something special for a second reason. It would not have been possible in this form without Vanessa Haumberger. With her experience, her expertise and above all her extraordinary network, she has opened doors for us that normally remain closed to visitors.
As the founder of Nettwerk, I was very happy to be on the road with such wonderful, curious, clever and committed women. Women who want to ask questions, discuss, question and understand how Europe works, how political decisions are made and why Brussels is so important for business, society and democracy.
I was also concerned with something else: positioning. In Brussels, people, institutions, companies, associations and regions position themselves for their issues every day. They build trust, represent interests, take responsibility and make their perspectives visible.
This “learning journey” was something very special. A journey to the people, institutions and ideas that shape Europe. And a reminder that democracy, freedom, equality and a united Europe cannot be taken for granted. They live from people who are committed, take responsibility, talk to each other and build bridges.
Many thanks to Vanessa Haumberger for the perfect organization, the many insights and the generosity with which she shared her network with us. And thanks to all the netters who made this trip something very special with their curiosity, their perspectives and their enthusiasm.
Europe is not a black box. Europe is a network. And networks are created by people who show attitude, take responsibility and create connections. 🇪🇺
