Latvia: In Riga, Latvia celebrated Europe Day in front of the Latvian National Opera and Ballet Theatre. The event began with a video address by Professor Gundars Bērziņš, Rector of the University of Latvia, on Latvia's EU accession and the role of universities in shaping Europe’s future. Professor Mārcis Auziņš emphasized the EU's core values—tolerance, respect, and unity in diversity. The International Student Photo Exhibition showcased student perspectives from the 2004 EU enlargement countries and Ukraine. A synchronized Ode to Joy flash mob connected universities across Europe in a display of unity. A special moment honored Ukraine’s EU aspirations, followed by musical performances from the University of Latvia Wind Orchestra and the choir “Aura,” celebrating solidarity and European unity. The event brought together 182 participants from 8 European Union Countries and 7 non-EU countries to reflect on the EU’s shared values.
Lithuania: At the University of Vilnius, Lithuania commemorated Europe Day with a special celebration focused on European unity and the country’s EU accession. The event featured speeches by university leaders, the opening of the International Student Photo Exhibition, and a digital Ode to Joy flash mob that united students from across Europe. The event highlighted European values such as democracy and respect for diversity. Over 150 participants from 10 countries, including Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Estonia, and Ukraine, joined the festivities, celebrating both the past and future of European integration.
Estonia: The University of Tallinn in Estonia marked Europe Day with an inclusive event that connected students and locals in a reflection on Estonia’s EU journey. Key moments included the opening of the International Student Photo Exhibition, speeches from university representatives, and a powerful Ode to Joy flash mob uniting Europe digitally. The event was attended by 120 participants from 8 countries, including Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine, embodying the spirit of unity across Europe.
Poland: On 9 May 2024, the University of Opole hosted a vibrant celebration in honor of Poland's EU accession. The event featured a Tele-bridge connecting partner universities for a synchronized "Ode to Joy" flash mob, uniting participants from across Europe. The International Student Photo Competition Exhibition was inaugurated, showcasing student creativity on European culture. A solemn ceremony marked Polish EU membership, attended by key figures such as UO Rector Prof. Marek Masnyk and Opole Mayor Arkadiusz Wisniewski, with 162 participants from 15 countries.
Hungary: Ludovika University of Public Service in Baja celebrated Europe Day by reflecting on Hungary's EU journey and offering insights into young citizens’ rights in the European Union. The event included speeches from Hungarian officials, a presentation on the CAMINO project, and the screening of the "Ode to Joy" flash mob video. The photo exhibition “Inspired by Europe” also opened, highlighting student perspectives on European unity. The event attracted students and citizens from both EU and non-EU countries, promoting inclusivity and EU awareness.
Slovakia: Comenius University in Bratislava marked Europe Day with a full day of cultural exchange, performances, and discussions. Activities included a photo exhibition, music performances, and workshops on cultural heritage. The flash mob of "Ode to Joy" was screened, celebrating European unity. Notable figures such as Professor Vladimír Šucha and Dr. Jozef Tancer reflected on Slovakia's EU membership, while a diverse group of 171 participants from 17 countries engaged in the celebration of Europe's shared values.
Czech Republic: On 9 May 2024, Jan Evangelista Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem hosted a commemorative event reflecting on the Czech Republic’s EU accession. The event featured a solemn meeting with university partners, an exhibition of the International Student Photo Competition, and a live performance of "Ode to Joy" via Tele-bridge. Cultural performances and an engaging program celebrating European culture and unity welcomed 137 participants from 11 countries.
Ukraine: The University of Latvia organized a public celebration supporting Ukraine's EU aspirations on 9 May 2024. The event began with a solemn meeting at the university, featuring speeches by Ukrainian Ambassador Anatolii Kutsevol and Latvian university officials, alongside an introduction to the CAMINO project. The "Ode to Joy" flash mob was broadcast digitally, linking universities across Europe. A concert of Ukrainian music and a presentation on Ukraine's EU journey highlighted the importance of culture in the EU integration process. 166 participants from 9 EU countries and 7 non-EU countries took part in the celebration.
Reflecting on the Journey: Europe’s Shared Values
The 9 May Europe Day celebrations in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia were a powerful reminder of the values that bind us together as Europeans: unity, peace, and respect for diversity. The CAMINO project’s events celebrated not only the past 20 years of EU enlargement but also the joy and energy that come from shared experiences, cultural exchange, and the collective pursuit of a brighter future. The Ode to Joy echoed across these celebrations, embodying the spirit of Europe—united in diversity, committed to peace, and filled with hope for what lies ahead.
As we reflect on this significant milestone, we are reminded that Europe’s strength lies not just in its political or economic achievements, but in the hearts and minds of its people. The joy we celebrate today is a testament to the power of unity, and it is this joy that will continue to fuel the European project for generations to come.
Europe Day celebration took place in the framework of the CAMINO ("CAMINO – 20 years of cultural enrichment in reunified Europe") project's activity "Europe in Action".
