An evening shaped by the trajectory of one of the influential figures within European political ecosystems.

From the inner workings of the European Parliament to the leadership of a major European political party, Vula Tsetsi brings a rare perspective on what it means to navigate power, build coalitions, and sustain a political movement over time. Her journey reflects both the visible and invisible dimensions of leadership: aligning divergent voices, managing institutional complexity, and holding a political family together through moments of transition and electoral pressure.

Having recently stepped down after more than two decades as General Secretary for The Greens/ALE, where she became one of the very first women to hold the role, she has chosen to re-enter politics from a different angle, now serving as co-president of the European Greens. This shift marks a deliberate move from structure to momentum, from stability to rebuilding.

At a time when questions of democracy, activism, and collective action are being reshaped across Europe, her experience offers a grounded lens on what it takes to lead from within institutions, and when to step beyond them. From navigating high-stakes political negotiations to standing publicly for fundamental rights, most recently during the 2025 Budapest Pride march, her path embodies both strategy and conviction.

This conversation opens a space to explore leadership, resilience, and the realities of political life behind closed doors, while inviting a more candid reflection on the current state of European politics and the role individuals can play within it.