Bologna Institute for Policy Research

SAIS Europe recently hosted a workshop bringing together scholars to explore obstructionism in international organizations, looking closely at its causes, strategies, and consequences for global governance.

The workshop was convened by SAIS Professor Nina Hall and University of Oxford Prof. Inken von Borzyskowski, with support from Johns Hopkins University and the Thyssen Foundation für Wissenschaftsförderung.

The group discussed obstruction in a range of institutions from the UN to the G20; and across a number of issues including the climate negotiations and global health governance. They examined the role of power, reputation, and non-state actors in shaping when and how obstruction occurs.

A key theme throughout was the challenge of measurement: how to capture intent, distinguish causes from consequences, and understand the relationship between intent and effect, especially when obstruction produces unexpected or even counterproductive outcomes.

An engaging and thought-provoking exchange, with many open questions to carry forward.

Before delivering the 2026 Commencement Address at Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe, Frans Timmermans met with a small group of SAIS Europe students for a candid conversation on Europe’s future, climate policy, global leadership, and the challenges shaping today’s international landscape.

The discussion reflected one of the defining strengths of the SAIS Europe experience: direct engagement with global leaders in an intimate academic setting.

This spring, the SAIS LAC Club brought 15 students to Madrid for a four-day study trek focused on the evolving relationship between Europe and Latin America & the Caribbean.

Madrid is a key center for Ibero-American diplomacy, making it the perfect setting to explore transatlantic cooperation across diplomacy, development, and global governance.
The group visited the Organization of American States, the UN Counterterrorism Office, Real Instituto Elcano, and others, learning from experts across the region’s most pressing policy challenges.

Beyond the meetings, the group also had time to explore the city — from its neighborhoods and museums to its food and culture.

A great opportunity to connect academic work with real-world policy conversations and bring the classroom to life. 🌍

A huge congratulations to the SAIS Europe “Bolognesi” who have just graduated in Washington, D.C.!

For many SAIS Europe students, Commencement in Washington marks the culmination of a journey that began under the porticoes of Bologna.

Over the past two years, these graduates have crossed borders, explored new ideas, formed lasting friendships, and engaged deeply with the issues shaping our world. This week, we were delighted to see them celebrate that achievement as members of the SAIS Class of 2026.

This year’s Commencement featured remarks from CNN anchor and SAIS alumnus Wolf Blitzer, while the Alumni Association Welcome was delivered by Bologna alumna Colleen Sullivan (B’21, B’22)—a reminder of the enduring connections that link generations of SAIS Europe graduates.

As they join a global network of more than 24,000 SAIS alumni, we celebrate all they have accomplished and look forward to following the paths they will forge in the years ahead.

Wherever your next chapter takes you, Bologna will always be part of your story.

💙❤️ Once a Bolognese, always a Bolognese.

From rural Iowa to Bologna, meet Colbee.

Before coming to SAIS Europe, Colbee developed her interest in diplomacy through language learning and cross-cultural exchange, including her interactions with Spanish-speaking migrant communities in Iowa. At SAIS, she has found a community that has challenged her to think more globally and deepen her understanding of both international and local issues.

As Vice President of the Latin American & Caribbean Club, Colbee helps create spaces for students to engage with Latin American culture, history, language, and politics beyond the classroom. One of her most meaningful experiences has been participating in the DineHome program with her Italian host family, where shared meals and conversation have given her a deeper connection to everyday life in Italy.

After SAIS, Colbee hopes to work as a diplomat with the U.S. Department of State. Her advice to future SAIS students? “Take advantage of every opportunity” and make the most of both the SAIS community and everything Bologna has to offer.

Swipe to learn more about Colbee’s journey at SAIS Europe.

From Bologna to the world: “Facts over Myths – Food Policy for Old and New Challenges” workshop brought together scholars and policy experts to explore how evidence-based research can shape food policy in a time of global uncertainty.

Co-organized by Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe and the University of Bologna, the event launched a new international initiative led by Jessica Fanzo and Mario Mazzocchi to advance interdisciplinary collaboration on food systems, food security, nutrition, and sustainability.

Grateful to all speakers and participants for helping build momentum toward stronger, science-informed policymaking.

The 2026 SAIS Europe Commencement Keynote Address was delivered by Frans Timmermans, former Executive Vice-President of the European Commission. A leading voice on democracy, climate policy, multilateralism, and the future of Europe, Timmermans addressed graduates at a moment of profound geopolitical transformation. Introduced by Professor Nathalie Tocci, the keynote reflected on the importance of international cooperation, democratic resilience, and serious engagement with today’s global challenges.
We were honored to welcome him to Bologna for this important occasion.

“Human beings who know how to build bridges. Human beings who understand empathy. Keep that in mind. Fail we may. Sail we must. All the best to the Class of 2026.”

Commencement2026

Study Trek to Tallinn 🇪🇪

The SAIS Europe Defense & Intelligence Club successfully completed its study trek to Tallinn, Estonia. Highlights included visits to the NATO Cyber Center of Excellence, the U.S. Embassy’s Secret Service detachment, and key museums across the city. An insightful and engaging experience exploring cybersecurity, diplomacy, and intelligence in practice.

From Bologna to the world.

This weekend we celebrated the Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe Class of 2026 at Teatro Medica Palace in Bologna.

Surrounded by faculty, families, alumni, and friends, our graduates marked the culmination of an extraordinary year defined by intellectual rigor, international dialogue, and a strong sense of community.

From policy debates and seminars to friendships formed across cultures and perspectives, the SAIS Europe experience extends far beyond the classroom.

As Rector Renaud Dehousse reminded the graduating class, international affairs demands not only technical expertise, but also judgment, openness to evidence, and the ability to engage seriously with complexity.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026. We look forward to following your paths across diplomacy, international organizations, journalism, business, public service, and beyond.

From Bologna to the financial hub of Asia. 🇮🇹➡️🇭🇰
Four exceptional students from SAIS Europe recently traveled to Hong Kong for an intensive three-day Career Trek, diving deep into the dynamics of the Asia-Pacific markets.