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Berlin, Germany – On November 6, 2026, the annual Berlin Conference took place at the Allianz Forum near the Brandenburg Gate, bringing together representatives from politics, culture, and civil society to address the growing challenges of social polarization and democratic uncertainty in Europe.
The conference, which has been held for over two decades, focused on the theme "Europe: The Art of Belonging." Organized by the Foundation Future Berlin (Stiftung Zukunft Berlin), its initiative A Soul for Europe, the European Festivals Association, and the Protestant Academy in Berlin, the event sought to explore how a shared European identity can be forged beyond formal institutional contracts.
Strengthening Community Ties
Participants emphasized that European belonging is most effectively realized at the local level. Speakers argued that cities and municipalities serve as essential hubs where citizens can engage in debates and collaborative projects. Sabrina Repp (SPD), a Member of the European Parliament, stressed the importance of supporting local institutions to bring people together. "Europe is built on the values of freedom, peace, and democracy, but these values are currently under pressure," Repp stated. "It is crucial that we support local spaces that foster human connection."
The conference also highlighted the European Voluntary Service, with the Collectif pour un Service Civique Européen advocating for programs that allow young people aged 18 to 30 to work on social, ecological, or cultural projects in other EU member states.
The Role of Culture and Funding
Heike Raab (SPD), chair of the European Committee of the Regions, addressed the financial challenges facing European municipalities. She underscored the necessity of adequate funding for cultural life, noting that the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) plays a critical role in supporting cohesion and local cultural initiatives.
Art was presented as a key bridge-builder. French filmmaker Romain Cayla, artistic director of Européens Sans Frontières, presented the "Caricartoons" project, which turns political cartoons into short animations. By addressing complex topics like migration and climate change, these animations aim to make European debates accessible to younger audiences across linguistic barriers.
Additionally, the EU-co-financed project PEGASE was featured for its efforts to make European cohesion policy more visible by demonstrating how EU funds directly impact daily life in local communities through podcasts, videos, and journalism.
