Europe Day 2025 in Zaporizhzhia: Building bridges to a happier future

To mark Europe Day, Zaporizhzhia hosted the forum “Youth Way to the EU,” creating a centre of European values, youth diplomacy, and intercultural dialogue. The agenda included panel discussions, presentations of European youth programmes, interactive quizzes, quests, VR experiences, and other engaging activities.

Like other public events, the forum was held in one of the city’s equipped shelters—“Unbreakable Hub”—due to security concerns. Despite the literally underground setting, the event became a beacon of hope and brought many bright and inspiring moments we are pleased to share.

Exploring Twin Cities

As part of the event, the City Development Institute of Zaporizhzhia organized an interactive space to showcase the city’s international cooperation. Here, our team introduced visitors to the many ways Zaporizhzhia is building bridges of understanding with European countries — and beyond.

Young people explored the stories behind our partnerships with twin cities. Those who answered quiz questions or participated in other themed activities received special gifts — custom-designed stickers created to inspire youth to take an interest in global affairs and learn more about Zaporizhzhia’s partner cities.

Partnerships That Inspire

Through lively dialogue, we shared insights into our cooperation with partner municipalities. Young visitors were excited to learn that their home city is well-known abroad, particularly for its resilience and strong commitment to development. They were also inspired to discover the ongoing support from our twin cities and their growing interest in Ukrainian culture, arts, and best practices.

To date, Zaporizhzhia is twinned with seven cities. Our twinning history dates back to 1953, with the establishment of a partnership with Lahti, Finland. Since then, our network has grown to include Belfort (France, 1967), Birmingham (UK, 1973), Linz (Austria, 1983), Oberhausen (Germany, 1986), Magdeburg (Germany, 2008), and most recently, Ashdod (Israel, 2011). In 2025, we aim to expand our cooperation to other continents and look forward to welcoming the city of Orange, Australia, as a new partner.

Looking to the Future

Joint humanitarian initiatives and collaborative projects with twin cities were the focus of a panel discussion on Zaporizhzhia’s international partnerships. Mariia Kuznietsova, Deputy Director for International Cooperation Development, shared key achievements and highlighted the support received from each partner city. She emphasized the critical importance of such relationships in times of crisis.

Ms. Kuznietsova also outlined future plans to deepen international engagement, including youth exchanges with Lahti, experience exchange visits with Magdeburg and Oberhausen, and expanded cooperation with Belfort, Linz, and Birmingham.

Citywide Campaign

In the lead-up to Europe Day, the City Development Institute launched a citywide billboard campaign dedicated to the twin cities. Displayed across Zaporizhzhia, the billboards emphasize the importance of international partnerships. They highlight not only the aid received, but more importantly, the tangible improvements achieved together with our partners — better public services, stronger public entities, and new opportunities for children.

The campaign’s overarching goal is to raise public awareness about how twin cities stand in solidarity with Zaporizhzhia. It serves as a powerful reminder to our citizens that they are not alone — they are supported by so many people and entire communities across Europe.

Shaping Shared Future

In today’s context, as Ukraine continues its path toward European integration, Zaporizhzhia’s presence on the international stage is more important than ever. Communication, partnership, and a shared vision are powerful tools. That’s why the city’s active engagement in global dialogue, humanitarian cooperation, and cultural exchange is not only a symbol of solidarity—it is a way of co-creating a better future together.