Deepen the discussion — widen the network
The EPIS Policy Competition bridges the gap between theory and practice, empowering Bachelor, Master, and PhD students, recent graduates, and young researchers to transform research into actionable solutions. Participants craft formal policy proposals and defend them before a distinguished panel of experts from diplomacy, academia, and industry.
EU Internal & External Security Challenges
Are you ready to tackle the defining crises of our time? The Policy Competition: EU Internal & External Security Challenges invites you to pitch bold, actionable solutions for Europe's future. From cyber threats and border management to shifting global alliances and geopolitical instability, the EU faces unprecedented pressure. We need your strategic vision to navigate these complex realities. Develop your policy, challenge status-quo thinking, and make your voice heard!
The winning team will present their proposal directly to influential EU policy-makers in Brussels for a 1-on-1 consultation on implementing their policy recommendations.
Building on the success of our May 2026 edition—EU Enlargement: Bigger or Better?—which brought together 50 students and 10 policy experts with support from the European Union, this upcoming competition scales the debate to Europe's most pressing security threats.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions are assessed by our expert panel on:
- Policy relevance
- Originality and innovation
- Feasibility and practical implementation
- Quality of analysis and evidence
- Clarity, structure, and persuasiveness of recommendations
The best proposal goes to Brussels
The winning policy proposal will be invited for a 1-on-1 consultation with an EU Politician to discuss the direct implementation of their policy recommendations — a career-defining opportunity for any student of European politics.
Strategic Communication
Present before a distinguished panel of experts from diplomacy, academia, and industry — developing the communication skills that matter in real policy environments.
Expert Network
Meet advisors, practitioners, and peers from across Europe. EPIS competitions are as much about widening your network as winning the prize.
Brussels Meeting
The best team is invited to Brussels for a 1-on-1 consultation with an EU Politician about implementing their proposal.
Submit your policy proposal today
Write a policy proposal (1,000–4,000 words) on EU Internal & External Security Challenges and submit it by 28 August 2026 at 23:59 CET. Participation is free.
