The EU JOURNEYS project officially launched with a dynamic three-day kick-off meeting held in Sofia, Bulgaria, from March 27 to 29, 2025. Hosted by Expert Pool – Bulgaria, the coordinating organization, the event brought together partners from Estonia, Greece, Italy, and Germany to plan the project’s next steps and foster collaboration within the consortium.

Project Overview

EU Journeys seeks to enhance understanding of European integration and identity through the collection, production, and dissemination of real stories and experiences. The initiative emphasizes inter-generational dialogue and the commemoration of key milestones that shaped the European Union, highlighting how these processes have transformed lives across borders.

Key activities include:

• Production of five short documentary films featuring personal testimonies.
• Development of interactive and AI-enhanced art exhibitions.
• Compilation and publication of a book of testimonials, with open readings and launch events.
• Screening and dissemination activities targeting diverse audiences from students and educators to civil society representatives.

A Productive Kick-Off Meeting

The agenda on March 28 included detailed presentations of each Work Package, roles and responsibilities, and technical planning. Key sessions focused on project milestones, creative storytelling, gender balance, and inclusion of various perspectives in the audiovisual content. A dedicated session on communication and dissemination laid the groundwork for the project’s visibility strategy, while partners also enjoyed time to connect informally and explore Sofia.

Saturday’s closing session reflected on the collective energy and commitment of the team, and set priorities for the next phase, including the first screening event and early editorial work for the testimonial book.

Meet the Consortium

The EU Journeys consortium comprises:

• Expert Pool – Bulgaria (Coordinator)
• Peipsi Center for Transboundary Cooperation – Estonia
• EProjectConsult – Italy
• Evropaiki Politeia – Greece
• M2C Institute for Applied Media Research – Germany

Each partner brings unique expertise in civic engagement, media production, cultural heritage, and youth work, enriching the transnational dimension of the initiative.

Looking Ahead

Following this vibrant start, the project is set to engage over 500 citizens directly through its activities, and many more through its digital outreach. From student workshops to multimedia exhibitions, EU Journeys will promote a deeper connection to the European project and the values it represents.

Stay tuned for updates, videos, and invitations to upcoming events on our website and social media!

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This project has received funding from the European Union’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) under Grant Agreement No. 101196543. Views and opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.