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In the first session, we examined the EU Digital Transition through the lens of CJEU case law on data protection together with Antonios Bouchagiar (Legal Service of the European Commission). After a brief introduction to EU data protection law, we analysed several landmark CJEU judgments from the past two years across different areas of EU data protection law. Starting with the case law on the transmission and transfer of data, we then moved on to discuss recent judgments concerning automated decision-making, remedies and enforcement (both public and private), law enforcement, and sexual self-determination. The session concluded with a selection of judgments addressing other compliance issues, as well as a preview of cases currently pending before the CJEU.

As well as providing GREITMA PhD researchers with an in-depth yet accessible overview of recent developments in this highly technical field, the session gave us the unique opportunity to discuss some of the most debated aspects of these judgments with a practitioner who has worked on these cases first-hand through representing the European Commission before the CJEU. Moreover, rather than being structured as a purely frontal lecture, the class was structured around discussion and exchange. This allowed us to critically reflect on the broader implications of the examined case law and to connect the judgments’ reasoning to the debates surrounding the EU digital transition within our respective fields of research.

In the second session, Vassilis Hatzopoulos examined in his presentation whether and to what extent the EU can act as a global standard-setter in the digital field, focusing in particular on the DSA and the DMA. He argued that while the EU clearly aspires to export its regulatory model beyond its borders – building on earlier experiences and the more famous examples of such global standard setting, such as the GDPR – the actual global impact of these instruments is more nuanced than often assumed. In the presentation, he distinguished different mechanisms through which EU rules may extend internationally, including extraterritoriality, territorial extension, and the Brussels effect, and critically assessed their effectiveness in practice.

A key point of the presentation was the observation that the EU’s role as a digital regulator is shaped by a complex internal decision-making process and competing objectives, such as protecting fundamental rights, ensuring fair competition, and maintaining innovation. The DSA and DMA were presented as part of a broader “digital constitutionalism”, which aims to structure the digital space according to European values. At the same time, he highlighted tensions with other global actors, particularly the United States, and raised questions about legitimacy, economic impact, and potential accusations of regulatory overreach or “techno-colonialism.”

The student discussions following the presentation were particularly engaging and focused on critically assessing the real reach of EU digital regulation. We debated whether the Brussels effect is still as strong as often claimed, especially in light of increasing geopolitical tensions and resistance from large tech companies. Some of us questioned whether stricter EU rules might risk isolating the European market or discouraging innovation, and others emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards for fundamental rights and user protection. There was also discussion about the balance between regulation and competitiveness, and whether the EU can realistically shape global standards without stronger enforcement mechanisms. In reflecting on the session, we found the input highly stimulating and relevant to their own research. The presentation provided a nuanced perspective that moved beyond the often simplistic narrative of the EU as a global regulatory superpower. It encouraged a more critical understanding of both the ambitions and the limitations of EU digital law, as well as the broader political and economic context in which it operates. In reflecting on the session, we found the input highly stimulating and relevant to their own research. The presentation provided a nuanced perspective that moved beyond the often simplistic narrative of the EU as a global regulatory superpower. It encouraged a more critical understanding of both the ambitions and the limitations of EU digital law, as well as the broader political and economic context in which it operates. Overall, the session sparked thoughtful debate and offered valuable insights into the evolving role of the EU in global digital governance.

On Thursday morning, Dimitris Kollias shared insights on sustainability and how the EU Single Market is transforming in response to the green and energy transitions. His talk highlighted how the internal market has evolved from a primarily economic integration project to one that embraces regulations focused on protecting the environment, achieving climate neutrality, and addressing social considerations. Drawing on key policy developments, such as the European Green Deal, the EU Emissions Trading System, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, the presentation illustrated how market-based instruments are being used to internalise environmental costs while preserving competitiveness and a level playing field.

The session combined conceptual input with interactive elements, such as case studies and group discussions, covering topics including energy poverty, market design, circularity, and the difficult choices involved in balancing the energy trilemma of security, equity, and sustainability. We engaged with scenarios highlighting the geopolitical and social implications of climate policy, debating questions of regulatory balance, and the limits of market mechanisms in addressing systemic challenges. Overall, this session offered us the opportunity to critically reflect on the role of regulation in steering the green transition within the EU internal market.

In the afternoon, Professor Ekaterini Iliadou offered a clear and comprehensive legal perspective on the structural transformation of the EU’s energy system. The session traced the evolution of energy law from state-owned monopolies to liberalised markets and showed how climate change has fundamentally reshaped the objectives and priorities of EU energy regulation. Particular attention was given to the growing interdependence between energy law and environmental law, with recent electricity market reforms and EU Climate Law presented as central pillars of a new regulatory architecture aimed at decarbonisation, resilience and social fairness. Through a detailed discussion of EU secondary legislation and landmark case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union on renewable energy support schemes, Prof. Iliadou explored how energy law can facilitate or restrict the green transition in practice. The analytical framework offered provided a particularly useful lens for understanding the real-world impact of regulation on decarbonisation pathways.

The session was further enriched by a guest speaker, Miltos Aslanoglou, who shared a practical perspective on the liberalisation and ongoing transformation of EU electricity markets. Building on the lecture, he emphasised how complex electricity trading can be, traced the shift from monopoly systems to competitive markets, and discussed the regulatory hurdles involved in integrating renewables, ensuring supply security, and maintaining affordability. The discussion prompted discussion among us. We reflected on the tensions between market integration and national autonomy, the role of courts in shaping climate policy, and the ability of legal frameworks to balance environmental ambition with energy affordability and security. Overall, the session was widely appreciated for its clarity and relevance, offering valuable insights into the legal foundations of the EU’s energy transition and their implications for research and policy alike.

On Friday morning, we concluded our training with a session where we presented our research and received feedback. The group was divided into two parallel sessions based on whether the topic of our PhD tackled the digital transition or the green transition. The digital transition candidates presented before Prodromos Tsiavos and Ioannis Kaplanis, while the green transition session was chaired by Dimitris Kollias.

Each of us had a few minutes to present our research question and the progress made so far in our first or second year of PhD. We then received individual feedback on the content, structure, and methodology of our project. This was a great opportunity to have an exchange on our research with experts who do not necessarily share our specific backgrounds, but who have a broader overview of the digital or green transition, which can be useful to integrate into our research. It was also valuable to hear about our colleagues’ projects and to see the common and complementary directions across different fields of law and political science, despite the diversity of our topics.

The training week concluded with a visit to the Faculty of Law at the University of Athens. Following a guided tour of the library, we had the opportunity to engage in an enriching exchange with PhD candidates and students interested in pursuing doctoral studies at the Faculty of Law.

After a brief round of introductions, during which we presented ourselves and our respective research topics, we discussed practical tips and strategies for navigating the first years of a PhD. The conversation also addressed some of the key challenges faced by doctoral researchers, including narrowing down a research topic, beginning the writing process, and securing funding opportunities.

It was a stimulating exchange, which we hope will continue with some students from the University of Athens during the upcoming GREITMA PhD Workshop this fall.

Beyond the formal training sessions, our time in Athens offered many memorable experiences. On Tuesday, we visited the National Archaeological Museum, where we immersed ourselves in Greece’s rich historical heritage. On Wednesday evening, we were invited to an authentic Greek dinner organised by the EPLO. Sharing traditional food and conversations outside the seminar setting was a particularly enjoyable part of the week and provided a wonderful opportunity to continue the conversations from the training sessions in a more informal atmosphere. On Thursday, after the sessions, we explored the Ancient Agora of Athens, which made us reflect on the historical roots of public discourse, democracy, and governance. Saturday, our free day, was marked by a visit to the Acropolis of Athens, an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of our stay.

Both our accommodation and the training venue contributed greatly to the overall experience. The EPLO premises themselves are situated in a charming historic building in Plaka, one of the city’s most picturesque districts. This central location meant that we were surrounded by history, just steps away from the Roman Agora of Athens and with stunning views of the Acropolis, making it easy to combine the training with exploring the area. Our hotel was also very conveniently located, allowing us to easily explore vibrant neighbourhoods and enjoy walks through the city, including the beautiful National Garden of Athens.

Another highlight of the week was Friday evening, following our visit to the University of Athens. Together with several PhD students from the university, we hiked up Mount Lycabettus. Reaching the top just in time for sunset, we enjoyed a drink while overlooking the city and exchanging impressions in a relaxed setting. This was a great way to conclude the formal part of a very successful week.

Throughout our stay, we also took time to stroll through the city’s lively streets, enjoy excellent Greek cuisine, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Athens. These shared moments outside the classroom were just as important as the academic program, allowing us to bond as a DTU and strengthen our sense of community.

Overall, the training at EPLO was a highly rewarding experience. It combined academic exchange with the opportunity to experience Athens, offering us new perspectives, valuable connections, and lasting memories. We are grateful for the opportunity and look forward to building on the insights gained during this inspiring week.