“Together for Europe” in Brussels at the European Parliament
Intergenerational-Pact-for-Europe-2026–2029 (1)
120 Young Ambassadors Present the Intergenerational Pact for a United Europe
Brussels, May 14, 2026.
The “Together for Europe” (TfE) gathering concluded in Brussels after bringing together 120 young people from across Europe and beyond from 11th-13th May. Representatives from more than twelve Christian communities and movements met in the Belgian capital to reflect on the meaning of unity within the continent, culminating in a time of dialogue with members of the European Parliament.
The Intergenerational Pact: A Commitment to the Future
The event was sealed on 13th May at the European Parliament with the signing of the “Intergenerational Pact,” a document committing both young people and previous generations to active and collaborative citizenship. Angèle Mulibinge Kaj, co-founder of the intergenerational initiative Ut Omnes, clarified: “The Intergenerational Pact is not about one generation as opposed to another, but rather it’s a search for alliances: no generation is self-sufficient, and Europe cannot be built by a few.” Speaking on behalf of the young people, she issued a practical appeal: “Let’s not limit ourselves to talking about participation; let’s show that it’s urgently needed. We young people are not waiting for the future: we are already the present of Europe.”
Daniele Scamardi (LUMSA University) summarized at the end: “I carry with me the desire to transform words into concrete contributions of truth. It was wonderful to share this journey with my colleagues and peers from all over Europe, engaging face-to-face with prominent figures at the Parliament. For next year, the goal is to get even more involved, moving from listening to an active role in the organization.”
Furthermore, Luca Paul Ciobotaru, a young man from Romania, stated: “I am happy to have met so many supporters of European integration. It heartens me to see open-minded Christians who, far from autocratic or theocratic motives, choose to defend freedom and pluralism. My hope is that our contribution helps Europe consolidate as an increasingly evolved and civil democracy.”
Culture, History, and Spirituality: The Roots of Integration
The event began with intercultural exchange and historical exploration. After an evening dedicated to sharing folk traditions, participants visited the House of European History, retracing centuries of common heritage that bind the nations of the continent. The heart of the event unfolded through three thematic workshops:
1. “Hope for Europe”: Led by Gerhard Proß (YMCA Esslingen-Germany), Cezara Perian (Focolare Movement-Romania), and Eduard Heger (ENC), former Prime Minister of Slovakia. The work focused on how the Christian faith inspired the founding fathers of Europe (Schuman, Adenauer, and De Gasperi) in the 1940s and 50s, exploring how the Christian message of reconciliation can build unity in Europe today.
2. “The Vocation of Europe”: Led by Sr. Nicole Grochowina (Christusbruderschaft Selbitz_Germany) and Fr. Hans-Martin Samietz (Schoenstatt-Germany), this group delved into the concepts of “vocation” and “soul” for the European continent, recalling Schuman and Delors’ quest to “give a soul to Europe.”
3. “The Power of Youth”: Focussed on the empowerment of younger generations, enabling them to work for the good of Europe in relation to the global good. It was conducted by Alberto Lo Presti (LUMSA University, Rome), Jeff Fountain (Schuman Centre for European Studies, Amsterdam), and Jan?ík Luboš, former Slovak State Secretary at the Ministry of Finance.
Dialogue with a number of Members of the European Parliament (MEP)
The final day saw the young participants take center stage during a three-hour debate at the European Parliament. Participants included Andrea Wechsler MEP (Germany), who hosted the group; Antonella Sberna MEP (responsible for Art. 17 dialogue, Italy), who emphasized the importance of intergenerational ties; Leoluca Orlando MEP, who called for a shift from independence to interdependence; and Miriam Lexmann MEP (Slovakia), who spoke on the value of human dignity in countering authoritarianism.
More than just a signing ceremony, the meeting was a living experience of the Intergenerational Pact. A clear vision emerged: Christianity remains a driver of reconciliation that animates Europe, placing human relationships above mere regulations.
By Daniel Scullion and Beatriz Lauenroth