European Freude
A new European dialogue for the next generations.
European Freude takes its name from Friedrich Schiller’s poem An die Freude („Ode to Joy“), which later became the musical foundation of Europe’s anthem. For us, Freude is more than the German word for joy. It is a shared European idea—building bridges across borders, generations and perspectives, and reminding us that Europe’s future begins with three shared values:
Freedom. Peace. Joy.
why now
A generation is growing up in a time of profound change.
War, climate change, rapid advances in artificial intelligence, geopolitical instability and growing social polarization are shaping how young Europeans look at the future. Alongside these challenges, many also face economic uncertainty, declining trust in institutions, information overload and a growing sense of social fragmentation and loneliness.
At the same time, there is a strong desire for belonging, participation and a positive shared perspective.
European Freude invites people across Europe to explore how freedom, peace and joy can help shape that future together.
The future of Europe begins with the conversations we choose to have today.
Values
Freedom
The freedom to express ideas, shape communities and imagine new possibilities.
Peace
The courage to build bridges, listen across differences and create understanding.
Joy
The energy to celebrate connection, creativity and the future we create together.
What is european freude
European Freude is an invitation to imagine Europe’s future together.
It brings together young people, artists, cultural organisations and civic voices to explore what freedom, peace and joy can mean in the years ahead.
Rather than offering ready-made answers, it creates space for dialogue, artistic exchange and collective imagination.
European Freude is taking shape through conversations, partnerships and new ideas across Europe.
why culture
Art and culture create spaces where dialogue becomes possible.
They connect people beyond borders, politics and generations. Sometimes a shared story begins long before a political decision.
join the conversation
Help shape the conversation.
European Freude is just beginning.
If you are interested in collaborating, contributing ideas or following the project, we’d love to hear from you.