Hesse launches month-long debate on Europe's future in May 2023
Hesse's European Weeks Thrive on Diverse Programs from Clubs, Schools, and Institutions
The European Weeks in Hesse are brought to life by the vibrant offerings of local clubs, associations, schools, universities, and other institutions. Everyone is welcome to take part and demonstrate just how vital Europe is—for Hesse and within Hesse.
Even before the official launch, Hesse's Minister for European Affairs, Manfred Pentz, praised the state's commitment. "Europe isn't just about high-level politics in Brussels. Above all, Europe happens in the regions—where people live. It thrives in schools, sports clubs, and choirs. Over the coming weeks, people from across the political spectrum will come together to champion a strong Europe. That gives me hope. Because perhaps Europe has never mattered more than in these uncertain times we're living through."
"Hesse stands for open dialogue in a peaceful, free Europe!"—the title of a debate in the Hessian state parliament this Wednesday, where Minister Pentz will speak.
Flagship Event in Wiesbaden
The centerpiece of Hesse's European Weeks will take place on May 18 at the newly renovated Caligari Film Stage in Wiesbaden. For the EU Project Day, Minister Pentz has invited students from grades 9 to 11 to a special "Europe at the Cinema" event. The program includes a premiere: the first in a series of explainer videos on Europe, hosted by journalist and presenter Clarissa Correia da Silva. To mark the occasion, she and Minister Pentz will unveil the initial episodes, focusing on cutting bureaucracy and strengthening democracy, followed by a screening of the feature film "L'Auberge Espagnole."
Online Calendar and Website
Planning an event? Add it to the online calendar! At *europawochen.hessen.de*, you can register your activity, download the official poster, or order printed copies.
About the European Weeks
Since 1995, Germany has hosted an annual European Week, which in 2023 expanded to cover the entire month of May. The extended period frames two key anniversaries: May 5 (founding of the Council of Europe in 1949) and May 9 (Schuman Declaration of 1950), the latter considered the birth of the European Union.
Each year, clubs, associations, schools, universities, and institutions across Hesse curate a rich program of events. Time and again, these weeks highlight just how deeply Europe shapes our daily lives—across every sphere. From workshops and seminars to conferences, readings, panel discussions, and beyond, the initiative sparks engagement with the pressing issues facing Europe today.
