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As Europeans do we have a specific worldview or a unique way of seeing and understanding things? Do we have a unique European way of life? If so, on what pillars can this unique way of life rest and do we have a responsibility to protect it? Christopher Vajda QC, the last British member of the Court of Justice of the European Union, sought answers to these and similar questions at the summer camp of the MCC School of Law in Révfülöp. The conversation was moderated by Lénárd Sándor, head of the Center for International Law at the MCC.

Balaton is a symbolic place in many ways. Generations of Hungarians have spent their memorable childhood summer vacations at the lake. The landscape, the unique colors of the lake, the scents, the typical dishes, the picturesque sailing boats, the unforgettable summer evenings have become an integral part of the Hungarian way of life. On the other hand, Lake Balaton also symbolizes a sense of belonging and the European idea, as it once served as a historically important meeting place for the citizens of Germany when it was cut into halves by the Iron Curtain. In light of these thoughts, Christopher Vajda QC, a former British judge of the Court of Justice of the European Union, who came to Hungary at the invitation of the MCC Center for International Law and visited the MCC Law School’s summer camp in Révfülöp, sought to explore the uniqueness of the European way of life, the European culture and civilization. The conversation shed light on the variety and diversity of the European legal and general culture as well as of the national identities. It also explored the values and traditions that unite the countries and peoples of the continent by forging this diversity into a single civilization. The conversation also touched upon the challenges that are currently threatening this European civilization, as well as the responsibility for its preservation. At the end of this summer conversation at the lake shore, everyone could enjoy one of the culinary arts of the Hungarian cuisine, a large portion of fish soup...