On a sweltering day in the summer of 2019, I brought one of my classes from the University of Jena to nearby Leipzig to see then-Irish president Michael D Higgins. Mixing theatrical pomp and intellectual gravitas, he gave a 60-minute lecture on “The Future of Europe: Re-Balancing Ecology, Economics, and Ethics”. I had also organised for my class – and myself – to meet some of the Irish figures who were there as part of the president’s entourage, including the then minister for foreign affairs and trade, Simon Coveney. I introduced myself to the minister, telling him I taught cultural…

Want to continue reading?

Join today as an Annual member and get full access to The Currency and The Wall Street Journal for just €200 or try Monthly membership for just €5 for your first month.

Subscribe

Cancel at any time.

Are you already a member? .