#EuropeDay2025

Under the well-known slogan Always in the Heart of Europe, Europe Day activities were held across Bosnia and Herzegovina throughout May as a showcase of the enduring partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the European Union. From youthful energy to sporting arenas and engaging discussions, while harnessing the power of music, Europe House, in cooperation with the European Union Office in BiH, organised a series of events that highlighted a shared future deeply rooted in the culture, innovation and aspirations of young people.

The opening bell on 7 May in Zenica marked both the start of the sports competition and the start of the Europe Day celebrations, together with hundreds of high school students, their coaches and celebrated athletes. Ambassador Luigi Soreca opened the ceremony, demonstrating the EU’s commitment to the country’s sporting spirit. The event also featured the provision of certified equipment by the EU to the Athletics Federation of BiH, tangible proof of support for the nation’s athletic future.

Ambassador Soreca’s words in Zenica echoed throughout the events that followed: “Young people are not bystanders in the EU integration process; they are already shaping the conversation and their voices will shape the future.” This sentiment was brought to life during interactive workshops in Sarajevo, Mostar, Tuzla and Banja Luka. During the workshops, high school students engaged in simulations of the EU accession process, during which they had an opportunity to experience the roles of diplomats and decision-makers, actively shaping their understanding of the complex functioning of the EU. The workshops were not only educational, but also empowering insights into the future they are poised to inherit.

Europe Day celebrations were also organised at the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education in Sarajevo, where the opening of their renovated sports facilities highlighted the concrete results of EU support in strengthening local infrastructure and creating new opportunities.

A Europe Day reception was held at the European Union Office in Sarajevo, bringing together local and international officials, committed partners from civil society, the media and youth organisations. Mostar’s Limunati, a band that brings together young talents with their music, connected generations and highlighted the enviable talent of young artists. After Ambassador Soreca’s speech, Ena Porča, the young European ambassador, was welcomed on stage, emphasizing the proactive role of young people on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European path, stating that they “do not just wait for the future” but “actively create it” with their energy, ideas and dedication. The rhythm of unity pulsed through the heart of Sarajevo with the open-air concert “Always in the Heart of Europe“. Stoposto, a Sarajevo alternative hip-hop artist known for mixing rap with elements of jazz, rock and electronic music, appeared on stage, offering his distinctive lyrical perspective. The energy was boosted by the performance of Ida Prester and Lollobrigida, a Croatian electro-pop/synthpop band known for their energetic stage presence and infectious melodies. Artan Lili, a Serbian noise-pop band from Belgrade, contributed to the eclectic mix, providing their powerful sound and dynamic performance.

“EU A to Z” quizzes were organized in Sarajevo, Čapljina, Brčko and Bihać, testing participants’ knowledge of the European Union in a relaxed atmosphere. These events attracted a diverse audience eager to learn more about the EU in a social setting, fostering a sense of community and shared discovery.

The Europe Day celebrations continued in Mostar, where Ambassador Soreca and ambassadors of the EU member states to BiH had an opportunity to see the tangible results of the European Union’s support for the region. The visit was a clear example of progress and partnership in action. The celebrations in Mostar began with a presentation of local agricultural products, “A Taste of Herzegovina”, held on the Spanish Square, showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage and the entrepreneurial spirit of local producers. Many of the participating producers are beneficiaries of EU funds that have enabled them to preserve their traditions and expand their businesses. The ambassadors also joined students at the United World College for an interactive workshop, engaging in dialogue on European values, global citizenship and the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina within the European Union. This exchange highlighted the key role of young people in shaping inclusive and democratic societies. A key stop was the INTERA Technology Park, a dynamic hub of innovation and entrepreneurship fuelled by EU support. Here, the delegation witnessed first-hand how EU investments are driving technological progress and creating opportunities for young people. The discussion highlighted how such initiatives strengthen local economies and provide opportunities for youth engagement – ​​two central pillars of EU support to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The day culminated in an open-air concert, “Always in the Heart of Europe”, held in the historic Old Town. This musical celebration, featuring globally acclaimed DJ and producer Andrew Meller, alongside local talents Andrej Jelić and Lubnya, brought citizens together under the open sky, strengthening a shared European cultural space.

From the urban landscape of Mostar, the activities continued with an exploration of the stunning natural beauty of Sutjeska National Park. In the company of local biodiversity experts, activists and environmentalists, the visit demonstrated the potential for sustainable tourism development and the importance of protecting the region’s natural heritage – areas that are strongly supported by EU-supported initiatives. This underlined the EU’s commitment not only to economic progress but also to preserving Bosnia and Herzegovina’s unique ecological treasures.

At Europe Day activities in Tuzla, focused on youth and innovation, Ambassador Soreca was joined by the French Ambassador to BiH, underlining the shared commitment of EU Member States to the region. Ambassador Soreca and the French Ambassador spoke to students at Richmond High School during an EU accession simulation workshop and visited the Digital Innovation Center, which showcases some of the best examples of innovative solutions for industrial robotics in the country. A significant part of the visit included a tour and observation of the work of the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) in Tuzla. The visit highlighted the EU’s support for the crucial work of the ICMP in the region, in particular its engagement with modern technology and innovation in addressing the sensitive issue of missing persons. The visit to Tuzla highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting young people, fostering innovation and addressing important humanitarian issues in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The culmination of the Europe Day trip brought Ambassador Soreca, along with 14 EU ambassadors and representatives, to Banja Luka on 16 May, sending a strong message of united European support to all of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The day’s program placed significant emphasis on youth and culture. The ambassadors visited the Museum of Contemporary Art of Republika Srpska, emphasizing the vital role of culture in building bridges and fostering a shared European identity. The ambassadors also had several direct conversations with young people in Banja Luka, discussing the concrete benefits of EU membership and the opportunities it could open up for their future. In the evening, at the historic Kastel fortress, an open-air concert “Always in the Heart of Europe” brought citizens together to celebrate unity through music and culture, with performances by the famous Parisian DJ Technasia, as well as Nebs Jack, Stefan Ivanković, Jan Frost and Ivan Z.

As the official Europe Day activities drew to a close, the cultural celebration continued with the opening of European Film Days in Sarajevo on 17 May. Film lovers had an opportunity to enjoy 11 European films for free until 23 May. This initiative is the result of cooperation led by the EU Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in cooperation with EUNIC (European Union National Institutes for Culture). The embassies of Austria, Hungary, Spain, Croatia, France, Romania, Czechia, Greece and the Netherlands participated, bringing a diverse selection of European cinema to Sarajevo and encouraging intercultural dialogue.

#EUforYourRights

In collaboration with the Srebrenica Memorial Centre, Europe House organised workshops for primary school students from Sarajevo and Srebrenica called “Drawing from the Heart“. The workshops provided a safe, creative space for children from Srebrenica and Sarajevo to explore themes of peace, remembrance and togetherness through art, fostering empathy, mutual understanding and connection between communities.

 

#OurPlanetOurFuture

World Bee Day was marked by the publication of an educational edition of What Does Green Mean?, highlighting the crucial importance of bees not only for pollination and healthy ecosystems, but also for life on Earth as we know it.

#EU4BiH

The commitment to cooperation with EU member states continued through the distinctive online campaign #closEUp. This initiative promotes awareness and appreciation of national holidays and unique aspects of all 27 EU member states. During May, the well-known symbol of Croatia – the necktie – was featured.

#EU4Youth

Europe House Info Points continued to deliver interactive presentations for primary and secondary school students. Together with schoolchildren, we learn about the history and founding of the European Union, EU-BiH relations and opportunities for young people. During May, 3 presentations were held together with 94 students.

#EuropeHouse

Since opening its doors to the public in October 2023, Europe House has hosted 340 events with more than 38,000 visitors.

In addition to our regular activities, Europe House hosts events from projects supported by the European Union, initiatives organized by the embassies of EU member states in BiH and their cultural institutes, as well as activities of other organizations, institutions and projects that use the Europe House space in Sarajevo free of charge. In May 2025, Europe House hosted 9 events with almost 800 visitors.
Thank you for being with us this May!
We look forward to seeing you again in June 2025!