The next Center for International Experiential Learning (CIEL) Community Trip is headed to France and Germany from 12/7 to 12/17, 2024 and you are invited!

Hardly any other peace-building efforts in the last century have been as successful as the reconciliation between France and Germany. And during this renewed time of polarization and increasing conflict world-wide, we should visit and take a closer look about what we can learn from the Franco-German example and apply to our current challenges.

From Enemies to Friends

Historically the hundreds of years of power struggle between France and Germany caused instability and war throughout what would become Europe. The hatred between the two countries left the broader region between them devastated. In 1871 Germany proclaimed the German Empire from the Palace of Versailles in the heart of France, a massive humiliation for the French. In retaliation the French sought revenge against the Germans with the Treaty of Versailles at the end of World War I, where they exacted harsh punishment and massive reparations payments from the Germans, which are often sighted one of the main grievances Hitler used to gain power and start World War II.

When the Allies won World War II, they believed that building a stable relationship between France and Germany was integral to guaranteeing peace and resisting Soviet influence. To ensure this one of the most sustained and thoughtful reconciliation efforts between two countries in history was born — The special friendship that emerged over the years between Germany and France became a key building block for the European Union and is seen as one of the reasons for the success and stability, growth and prosperity of the whole continent. It is an important example of how successful reconciliation and peace-building can be achieved both between people and between nations.

We will be studying this major shift from sworn enemies to a special friendship, which was not just a political move but supported by many efforts from the civil society including education and how history is celebrated and remembered in both countries, strategic cultural exchanges and partnerships.

We will visit historic WWII sites and study the various commemorations; learn about the role of the “last letters” written by resistance fighters in the collective memory; examine how memorialization and education efforts laid the foundation for Franco-German reconciliation. And hear from experts about how this special relationship shaped the European Union and is relevant to facing the current challenges of regional conflict, polarization, nationalism and immigration.

We are excited to be guided by academic experts who have access to local voices and will give us a deeper understanding of these relevant themes. There will also be free time to enjoy the food and culture and visit the famous French and German Christmas Markets and to explore Europe during this festive season.

Accommodation

• Five nights in Paris at Hotel Les Jardins du Marais (Boutique hotel in a central location in the Marais district)

• One night in Strasbourg at Hotel Tandem (centrally located close to the famous Christmas Markets)

• Four nights at Hotel Oderberger (Historic Bathhouse from 1898 that was converted into a Boutique Hotel in the center of Berlin)

We'll explore the history of WWII, delve into the Franco-German reconciliation, and examine WWII commemoration and memorialization. We'll also take a closer look at the creation of the European Union, offering a balanced perspective on its historical context and present-day relevance. Join us for an informative and enjoyable experience as we learn and connect together.