The ELGS program in Portugal has been initiated

This innovative program, organized by the EPLO European Law & Governance School (ELGS) in cooperation with the EPLO Institute for the Global Rule of Law and the EPLO Regional Branch in Cascais, is being conducted in situ for the first time in Portugal, with the support of the Municipality of Cascais and leading Portuguese universities. The pioneer class of the program consists of students from the states of Africa, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to address global challenges in governance and democracy. The postgraduate students following the first master’s course reflect as well the EPLO’s commitment to empower leadership and development in the African continent.

On Monday, November 25, 2024, Professor Spyridon Flogaitis, Director of the European Public Law Organization (EPLO), had a fruitful meeting with the students of the Master’s Program in Rule of Law & Democracy at the EPLO ELGS campus in Portugal, located at the Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar in Carcavelos, within the boundaries of the Municipality of Cascais.

During his speech, Professor Flogaitis also emphasized Africa’s strategic importance stating that «Africa is the first priority now for EPLO. It should also be the first priority for Europe, as we live together across the same sea». Reflecting on EPLO’s recognition as a permanent observer to the United Nations in 2019, he highlighted the shared values and responsibilities that connect nations and regions. Additionally, the meeting served as an opportunity to discuss the upcoming Session of the EPLO Global Rule of Law Commission, or the Cascais Commission, scheduled for January 2025, during of which the 3rd Rule of Law Report, focused on Africa, will be discussed. The meeting was attended by Professor Nikolas Voulgaris, an ELGS faculty member teaching the students about international human rights law during the same week, along with representatives of the EPLO Regional Branch and the EPLO Institute for the Global Rule of Law Commission.

The meeting concluded with a unique cultural experience, as the students offered a traditional African dish they had prepared themselves, providing a taste of their heritage and adding a warm personal dimension to the meaningful occasion.