Two weeks ago today, our trip to Brussels was nothing short of inspiring. Together with our friends from Yes for EU, and joined by Scottish Indy Podcasts, we brought Scottish and European voices to the heart of the EU to rally MEP support for Scotland’s place in the Union.
We were honored to be joined by former MEPs Alyn Smith and Heather Anderson, whose experience helped spark rich, purposeful discussions. The day was packed with meetings with supportive MEPs from several countries: Thomas Waitz (Austria), Terry Reintke (Germany), Diana Riba i Giner, and Vicent Marza (Spain) all fromthe Greens/EFA. The day before, Nina and Andrea also connected with Brando Benifei (Italy – (S&D group) and Pär Holmgren (Sweden- Greens/EFA group), while parliamentary assistants for Kathleen Funchion (Ireland – Renew group), Damian Boeselager and Nela Riehl (Germany – Volt) shared their time and interest too.
Supported in part by The Coppieters Foundation, we set up at the European Parliament early, greeted by the powerful slogan, “Democracy in Action.” With the Scottish saltire in hand and cheers from passersby, the day began with spirit and purpose.
Inside, we hosted private meetings with MEPs, followed by interviews led by Marlene and Fiona of Scottish Indy Podcasts, and messages for Scots captured on video. Every MEP we spoke to was warm, engaged, and unequivocally supportive.
One key takeaway came from Thomas Waitz: why not invite MEPs to visit Scotland? It’s doable, impactful, and a clear show of support. The idea caught fire. Plans are now being developed for MEP visits before the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary election campaign kicks off in February—think roundtables, press, and public events showcasing EU interest in Scotland.
Another powerful outcome: MEPs asked for grassroots insights they could bring into their parliamentary committees on trade, culture, and more. They want our voices. They want to stay connected.
Lastly, there’s strong enthusiasm to make this an annual rendezvous. With solid relationships now formed, we’ll keep the momentum going. Alyn Smith will follow up on key items with the Scottish government, and we’ve been encouraged to reach out to EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos to raise Scotland’s case.
This impactful initiative was covered three times in The National—twice by the newspaper’s own reporting (here and here), and again in a powerful column by Alyn Smith himself, underlining the momentum and resonance of this mission.
This year’s delegation findings will be shared at a special Europe Day event titled Scotland in the EU: Good for Scotland, Good for Europe, at Augustine United Reform Church at 6:30pm. Free tickets can be booked here, and the event will be live-streamed for those unable to attend.
This is just the beginning. We hope you will support us on this journey and we ask you, if you’re in a position to do so, to consider supporting our plans with a small donation, so we can keep working for Scotland’s voice in Europe.
In European solidarity
EfS team