In a complex and constantly changing geopolitical context, European identity is a vital topic for reflection and debate. It plays a key role in shaping a generation that supports European values and contributes to building a united and prosperous Europe. But where does Europe begin and end? Who and what “belongs” to Europe – and who has the right to decide that? What is the connection between “Europeanness” and political integration projects such as the EU or the Eurozone? Does “Europe” simply mean everything within the borders of the continent, or is it a set of values, ideas, norms, and ideals that no one can claim exclusively, but which everyone is invited to aspire to?
In its work both in Germany and beyond, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation is committed to building bridges to strengthen the European idea and to raise awareness about the importance of European values — while also encouraging reflection on the concept itself. In this spirit, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation Office in the Republic of Moldova invited the Sur-Place scholarship holders to a new regional seminar on “European Identity,” organized for the fourth year in a row between April 4–6, 2025.
This year’s participants came from KAS Sur-Place programs in Armenia, Belarus, the Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Poland, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Hungary. In a dynamic setting that included university lectures, interactive workshops, and group discussions, participants explored the shared values that define European identity, reflected on its many facets, and examined the current challenges surrounding this concept — particularly for countries in the process of European integration.
The seminar also offered space to hear participants’ personal views on what it means to be European, encouraging them to think about the future of Europe and to share their perspectives on “Europeanness” from the viewpoint of the countries they represent.
This event in the Republic of Moldova highlights the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s strong commitment to political education for youth and to the exchange of ideas in shaping a solid European identity — and a generation ready to contribute actively to the future of the European project.